\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

[email protected]

For other things / Para otros asuntos

[email protected]

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n
\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colombia Travel & Vacations Group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Well, technically it does, but not in the traditional sense. Really, the only seasons that exist this close to the equator are rainy and slightly less rainy.  Some people say there\u2019s a rainy and dry season, but I would never call Bogot\u00e1 dry!  As the third highest capital in South America, the city sees an average of 32.4 inches (824 mm) of rainfall each year! Most of this comes in April and October, the months known to be the wettest.  December through February are typically when Bogot\u00e1 sees the least amount of rain, followed by June, July and August.  I say \u201cthe least amount of rain\u201d because remember, there\u2019s always rain in Bogot\u00e1 with the city being situated high up in the Andes Mountains, so make sure you prepare for the weather <\/a>accordingly.  However, all this rain is what makes the surroundings so green and gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colombia Travel & Vacations Group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Bogot\u00e1 has no seasons<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Well, technically it does, but not in the traditional sense. Really, the only seasons that exist this close to the equator are rainy and slightly less rainy.  Some people say there\u2019s a rainy and dry season, but I would never call Bogot\u00e1 dry!  As the third highest capital in South America, the city sees an average of 32.4 inches (824 mm) of rainfall each year! Most of this comes in April and October, the months known to be the wettest.  December through February are typically when Bogot\u00e1 sees the least amount of rain, followed by June, July and August.  I say \u201cthe least amount of rain\u201d because remember, there\u2019s always rain in Bogot\u00e1 with the city being situated high up in the Andes Mountains, so make sure you prepare for the weather <\/a>accordingly.  However, all this rain is what makes the surroundings so green and gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colombia Travel & Vacations Group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

When you Google\u201cBogot\u00e1,\u201d the same things usually come up: popular restaurants, tours, Monserrate<\/a>, the neighborhood of La Candelaria, and so on. Don\u2019t get me wrong, they\u2019re all cool, but what about the stuff you haven\u2019t heard about?  I\u2019ve put together five little-known facts that might be just the motivation you needed to book your trip here! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has no seasons<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Well, technically it does, but not in the traditional sense. Really, the only seasons that exist this close to the equator are rainy and slightly less rainy.  Some people say there\u2019s a rainy and dry season, but I would never call Bogot\u00e1 dry!  As the third highest capital in South America, the city sees an average of 32.4 inches (824 mm) of rainfall each year! Most of this comes in April and October, the months known to be the wettest.  December through February are typically when Bogot\u00e1 sees the least amount of rain, followed by June, July and August.  I say \u201cthe least amount of rain\u201d because remember, there\u2019s always rain in Bogot\u00e1 with the city being situated high up in the Andes Mountains, so make sure you prepare for the weather <\/a>accordingly.  However, all this rain is what makes the surroundings so green and gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colombia Travel & Vacations Group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Are you a local\u00a0business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Bus terminals in Bogot\u00e1: how to use them","post_excerpt":"Our guide to using the bus terminal in Bogot\u00e1 will have you on your way to traveling around the country in no time. Keep reading to know more!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"bus-terminals-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-15 16:35:49","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-15 21:35:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1013","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1007,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-29 11:20:53","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-29 16:20:53","post_content":"\n

When you Google\u201cBogot\u00e1,\u201d the same things usually come up: popular restaurants, tours, Monserrate<\/a>, the neighborhood of La Candelaria, and so on. Don\u2019t get me wrong, they\u2019re all cool, but what about the stuff you haven\u2019t heard about?  I\u2019ve put together five little-known facts that might be just the motivation you needed to book your trip here! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has no seasons<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Well, technically it does, but not in the traditional sense. Really, the only seasons that exist this close to the equator are rainy and slightly less rainy.  Some people say there\u2019s a rainy and dry season, but I would never call Bogot\u00e1 dry!  As the third highest capital in South America, the city sees an average of 32.4 inches (824 mm) of rainfall each year! Most of this comes in April and October, the months known to be the wettest.  December through February are typically when Bogot\u00e1 sees the least amount of rain, followed by June, July and August.  I say \u201cthe least amount of rain\u201d because remember, there\u2019s always rain in Bogot\u00e1 with the city being situated high up in the Andes Mountains, so make sure you prepare for the weather <\/a>accordingly.  However, all this rain is what makes the surroundings so green and gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colombia Travel & Vacations Group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

What are you must see places in Colombia?  I bet there\u2019s a bus that will take you there! Let me know in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local\u00a0business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Bus terminals in Bogot\u00e1: how to use them","post_excerpt":"Our guide to using the bus terminal in Bogot\u00e1 will have you on your way to traveling around the country in no time. Keep reading to know more!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"bus-terminals-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-15 16:35:49","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-15 21:35:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1013","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1007,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-29 11:20:53","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-29 16:20:53","post_content":"\n

When you Google\u201cBogot\u00e1,\u201d the same things usually come up: popular restaurants, tours, Monserrate<\/a>, the neighborhood of La Candelaria, and so on. Don\u2019t get me wrong, they\u2019re all cool, but what about the stuff you haven\u2019t heard about?  I\u2019ve put together five little-known facts that might be just the motivation you needed to book your trip here! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has no seasons<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Well, technically it does, but not in the traditional sense. Really, the only seasons that exist this close to the equator are rainy and slightly less rainy.  Some people say there\u2019s a rainy and dry season, but I would never call Bogot\u00e1 dry!  As the third highest capital in South America, the city sees an average of 32.4 inches (824 mm) of rainfall each year! Most of this comes in April and October, the months known to be the wettest.  December through February are typically when Bogot\u00e1 sees the least amount of rain, followed by June, July and August.  I say \u201cthe least amount of rain\u201d because remember, there\u2019s always rain in Bogot\u00e1 with the city being situated high up in the Andes Mountains, so make sure you prepare for the weather <\/a>accordingly.  However, all this rain is what makes the surroundings so green and gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colombia Travel & Vacations Group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

I\u2019ve come through the Salitre terminal many times and I\u2019m sure I\u2019ll be using it plenty more in the future.  It\u2019s a great starting point and despite its size, really easy to navigate. If you get lost, just follow the signs; they\u2019re everywhere and a lot of them are even in English!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are you must see places in Colombia?  I bet there\u2019s a bus that will take you there! Let me know in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local\u00a0business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Bus terminals in Bogot\u00e1: how to use them","post_excerpt":"Our guide to using the bus terminal in Bogot\u00e1 will have you on your way to traveling around the country in no time. Keep reading to know more!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"bus-terminals-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-15 16:35:49","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-15 21:35:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1013","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1007,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-29 11:20:53","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-29 16:20:53","post_content":"\n

When you Google\u201cBogot\u00e1,\u201d the same things usually come up: popular restaurants, tours, Monserrate<\/a>, the neighborhood of La Candelaria, and so on. Don\u2019t get me wrong, they\u2019re all cool, but what about the stuff you haven\u2019t heard about?  I\u2019ve put together five little-known facts that might be just the motivation you needed to book your trip here! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has no seasons<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Well, technically it does, but not in the traditional sense. Really, the only seasons that exist this close to the equator are rainy and slightly less rainy.  Some people say there\u2019s a rainy and dry season, but I would never call Bogot\u00e1 dry!  As the third highest capital in South America, the city sees an average of 32.4 inches (824 mm) of rainfall each year! Most of this comes in April and October, the months known to be the wettest.  December through February are typically when Bogot\u00e1 sees the least amount of rain, followed by June, July and August.  I say \u201cthe least amount of rain\u201d because remember, there\u2019s always rain in Bogot\u00e1 with the city being situated high up in the Andes Mountains, so make sure you prepare for the weather <\/a>accordingly.  However, all this rain is what makes the surroundings so green and gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colombia Travel & Vacations Group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n

Much like the Taxis\u00a0in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, the bus drivers\u00a0go a little fast and sometimes crazy, but remember that they do this all the\u00a0time, so no need to panic!\u00a0 Smart Travel\u00a0Tip:\u00a0 if you\u2019ve got a ways to go, take an\u00a0overnight bus.\u00a0 It\u2019ll save you on accommodation and those buses are usually the most comfortable.\u00a0 My favorites for long distance travel are\u00a0Velotax (their double decker bus has a VIP section), Bolivariano (they also\u00a0have buses with a VIP section) and Flota Magdalena.\u00a0 They\u2019re some of the largest bus companies so\u00a0they provide service to quite a few cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I\u2019ve come through the Salitre terminal many times and I\u2019m sure I\u2019ll be using it plenty more in the future.  It\u2019s a great starting point and despite its size, really easy to navigate. If you get lost, just follow the signs; they\u2019re everywhere and a lot of them are even in English!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are you must see places in Colombia?  I bet there\u2019s a bus that will take you there! Let me know in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local\u00a0business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Bus terminals in Bogot\u00e1: how to use them","post_excerpt":"Our guide to using the bus terminal in Bogot\u00e1 will have you on your way to traveling around the country in no time. Keep reading to know more!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"bus-terminals-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-15 16:35:49","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-15 21:35:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1013","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1007,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-29 11:20:53","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-29 16:20:53","post_content":"\n

When you Google\u201cBogot\u00e1,\u201d the same things usually come up: popular restaurants, tours, Monserrate<\/a>, the neighborhood of La Candelaria, and so on. Don\u2019t get me wrong, they\u2019re all cool, but what about the stuff you haven\u2019t heard about?  I\u2019ve put together five little-known facts that might be just the motivation you needed to book your trip here! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has no seasons<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Well, technically it does, but not in the traditional sense. Really, the only seasons that exist this close to the equator are rainy and slightly less rainy.  Some people say there\u2019s a rainy and dry season, but I would never call Bogot\u00e1 dry!  As the third highest capital in South America, the city sees an average of 32.4 inches (824 mm) of rainfall each year! Most of this comes in April and October, the months known to be the wettest.  December through February are typically when Bogot\u00e1 sees the least amount of rain, followed by June, July and August.  I say \u201cthe least amount of rain\u201d because remember, there\u2019s always rain in Bogot\u00e1 with the city being situated high up in the Andes Mountains, so make sure you prepare for the weather <\/a>accordingly.  However, all this rain is what makes the surroundings so green and gorgeous!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colombia Travel & Vacations Group<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 has over 50 m<\/strong>useums<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not an exaggeration.  This means there\u2019s a museum for everyone!  From famous, big name ones, like the Museo del Oro<\/em> (Gold Museum<\/a>) and the Museo Botero<\/em> (Botero Museum<\/a>, dedicated to the famous Colombian artist), to the lesser known and totally underrated ones, like the Museo de la Chicha<\/em> (Chicha Museum, one of the drinks you should try<\/a> while you\u2019re in the city) and the Maloka Museo Interactivo<\/em> (Maloka Museum<\/a>, an interactive science and technology place for all ages).  There\u2019s a large concentration of museums in the neighborhood of La Candelaria<\/a> (including the Gold, Botero and Chicha Museums), the historic part of town.  I\u2019ve yet to visit a lot of the museums.  Because there are so many, I haven\u2019t been able to get to them all, but my favorite so far has been the Planetario de Bogot\u00e1<\/em> (Planetarium<\/a>) because I love all things space-related. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 hosts the biggest FREE outdoor rock concert in Latin America<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Rock al Parque<\/a> is an annual three-day festival held at Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park in the middle of the city. It started in 1995 and has since expanded to include other genres such as punk, ska, blues and metal.  Hundreds of thousands attend every year with the biggest crowd being 400,000 in 2004. Bands from all over the world come to play; some are invited and others are chosen after a multi-stage selection process. Some pretty big names have graced the stage over the years like Lamb of God, Anthrax, P.O.D. and Sum 41. Usually, you get what you pay for, but in this case, that doesn\u2019t apply because it\u2019s totally free and so totally awesome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Juan Diego Buitrago<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is home to the legend of El Dorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technically, the lost city of gold is said to be in Laguna de Guatavita<\/em>, which is located next to a town by the same name just outside Bogot\u00e1.  Over the years the story has changed, what El Dorado is has changed, and even the site has changed.  But, the original tale stems from rituals conducted by a tribe that lived near Guatavita Lagoon.  One of our writers has the full story here<\/a>.  Even though the legend wasn\u2019t exactly born in Bogot\u00e1, the capital city does have its own El Dorado:  the El Dorado International Airport<\/a>.  And you better believe the name is not just a coincidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 boasts one of the most extensive networks of bicycle routes in the world<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every Sunday and public holiday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., around 200 miles (more than 300 kilometers) of Bogot\u00e1 streets are converted to ciclov\u00edas <\/em>that are closed off to motor vehicles.  People take to the streets by bike, foot, and rollerblades for one of the world\u2019s most successful mass recreation events.  It\u2019s so successful, in fact, that the concept has spilled over into other countries.  Even cooler? Bogot\u00e1 does a night version, la ciclov\u00eda nocturna<\/em>, two times a year! If you want to join in on the fun, rent a bike<\/a>!  Get some exercise while getting to know the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Reasons
\u00a9 Photograph by Colprensa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is a place with so much to do and see, it\u2019s no wonder that a lot of what makes it so rad gets lost in online searches.  Do all the touristy things because they\u2019re still cool, but take advantage of the lesser-known stuff and don\u2019t be afraid to dig a little deeper and read past page one of your Google-ing when you\u2019re looking for things to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did I miss something?  What\u2019s your favorite underrated thing about Bogot\u00e1?  Tell me in the comments below and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Just can\u2019t get enough?  Subscribe to our newsletter and follow\nus on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1: cool facts you didn\u2019t know","post_excerpt":"As if you needed more, I\u2019m giving you five reasons to visit Bogot\u00e1 based on things you didn\u2019t already know about the Colombian capital.n capital.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"reasons-to-visit-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-16 09:32:30","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-16 14:32:30","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1007","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1003,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2018-09-28 16:14:36","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-28 21:14:36","post_content":"\n

I\u2019ve visited Zipaquir\u00e1 many times and I always find a reason to go back. If you haven\u2019t been there, you\u2019re missing one of the greatest experiences a tourist can have in Colombia. So, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1) The train trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Going to Zipaquir\u00e1 is so much fun! You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de la Sabana<\/a> (The Savannah Touristic Train) and have multiple experiences in one. First, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Bogot\u00e1 Savannah during your travel. Second, you will get to ride an old train! Believe me, it\u2019s a slow, but exciting journey. Third, you\u2019ll get to enjoy a Papayera during your trip. You might be thinking: Papayera? What is that? Well, it\u2019s a musical group that plays typical Colombian songs. Even before arriving to Zipaquir\u00e1, you\u2019ll already have had an unforgettable experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The train takes off from the Estaci\u00f3n de la Sabana (Savannah Station) and goes on the following route: Usaqu\u00e9n<\/a>, La Caro, Cajic\u00e1, then Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2) The Salt Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nYou don\u2019t have to be a religious or even a Catholic person to be impressed by the Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). This impressive place located 180 meters underground is a breathtaking work of architecture. It explains the passion of Christ through symbolism and every guide is well prepared not just to explain it, but also\ntell the story behind the Cathedral construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tickets cost COP $34.000 \/ USD $11 (approximately) for adults and COP $26.000 \/ USD $8.60 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3) The miners route<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nThe Salt Cathedral is not just about religion or faith, but it\u2019s also an homage about miners and their hard work. If you want to know what it feels like to be a miner for a day, you can book this additional tour for just two more dollars. You\u2019ll learn not just about mining, but also about geology while using a headlamp helmet to make the experience a bit more real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Places
\u00a9 Photograph by Joanna Ruiz M\u00e9ndez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4) It could be a cultural experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIf you like history and culture, you can visit two nice museums in Zipaquir\u00e1: the Quevedo Zornoza and the Archaeological Museum. In the first one, you might find some of the memorabilia collected by the Quevedo family, who were big fans of different types of art including literature, poetry, music and painting. In the second\none, there are 1500 pieces of different Colombian cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into books, you must know that Gabriel Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez - 1982 Literature Nobel prize winner - lived here. He studied in this town when he was a teenager and the high school that had the honor of having such a student is now a cultural center where you can find more about his time in Zipaquir\u00e1 and his work. Getting closer to the life of the young Garc\u00eda M\u00e1rquez before he became a legend is sure a nice plan for a passionate reader!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5) You can satisfy your palate<\/strong> Colombia is a country that offers delicious food in every corner<\/a> and Zipaquir\u00e1 is no an exception. What can you try in this town? The papas en salmuera (brined potatoes) are very typical, as well as the plato minero, which has meat, sausage, pork rib, blood sausage, chicken, avocado and brined potatoes. The Ajiaco<\/a> -potato soup, Sancocho \u2013soup with potato, chicken and plantain and almoj\u00e1banas \u2013a type of bread made of cornflour and cheese, are also very popular in Zipaquir\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6) It\u2019s close to Bogot\u00e1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nCartagena, Ca\u00f1o Cristales, Parque Tayrona\u2026 Colombia has so much to offer, but if you are on a budget and can\u2019t afford to visit all these touristic places you\u2019ll be happy to know that Zipaquir\u00e1 is very close to the capital. You won\u2019t have to spend a lot of money and I can assure you will have a GREAT experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The basics:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

How far? <\/strong>Approximately 48 km from the city<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long? <\/strong>Approximately 1 to 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to get there?\u00a0<\/strong>You can book your trip with the Tren Tur\u00edstico de La Sabana<\/a>. The round trip costs COP $58.000 \/ USD $20 (approximately) for adults and COP $50.000 \/ USD $16 for elders and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you are on a budget, you can go there by bus that takes you over the Autopista Norte: if you take off from the Portal Norte (Transmilenio station), you\u2019ll find buses that go to Zipaquir\u00e1. Some of them have a sign that says: \u201cZipa\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bus price: <\/strong>COP $2,800 \/ USD $1 (approximately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you ready to visit Zipaquir\u00e1 and enjoy its magic? Tell me your experience when you get back! Have you been there? Share your experience in the comments section below!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep visiting Colture for more information on other nice places you can visit near Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website! Sources:<\/strong> Colombia Travel<\/a>, Alcald\u00eda de Zipaquir\u00e1<\/a>, Catedral de Sal<\/a>, Zipaquir\u00e1 Travel<\/a>.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Places around Bogot\u00e1: 6 reasons to visit Zipaquir\u00e1","post_excerpt":"If you haven\u2019t been to Zipaquir\u00e1, what are you waiting for? I\u2019ll give you 6 reasons to visit this nice town and enjoy it to the fullest!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"zipaquira","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:53:48","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:53:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=1003","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":993,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-25 13:00:22","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-25 18:00:22","post_content":"\n

La Calera is a place where people relax from Bogot\u00e1. You will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay. Here, I give you a few of them!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you are going for a relaxing weekend from the city of Bogot\u00e1 or just going for an extreme sport<\/a>s trip with an amazing landscape, La Calera<\/a> is my first option because it\u2019s so close to Bogot\u00e1 (about 40 min). There are multiple roads to get there, so traffic isn\u2019t an excuse and the cost will vary depending on the transportation you go for.\u00a0 I normally use Uber and return to the city on a public bus.\u00a0\u00a0 The total round-trip is around 48.000 COP, which is approx. $16 USD. Regarding the weather, it\u2019s normally cold, but because of where it\u2019s located, you will find time when it isn\u2019t too cold to do some extreme sports or even go to a waterfall!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Due to the landscape of La Calera, there are diverse options for visitors to stay: hostels, cabins, camping, hotels and even crazy places like a bus, which you can find on Airbnb, are available. So go ahead and keep reading to figure out which place is best suited for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: This year the Mayor has been working on the expansion of the road Bogot\u00e1-Sop\u00f3, so be aware of the traffic that you could encounter find.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\"Where
\u00a9 Photograph by Shadowxfox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For backpackers and adventurers!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a place to sleep for a low cost, a hostel is the right choice for you. In La Calera, you will find an infinite number of places, including some with themed decorations. Everything will depend on the reason you are visiting. For example: if you want a private room with a romantic vibe for you and your partner, I recommend Hostal San Rafael<\/a>, which has an amazing view of the reservoir and delicious homemade foods. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a different experience or continue your adventurous trip, you can find themed hostels on Airbnb where you can stay on a bus<\/a>, a car or even inside a plane<\/a> (all restored with the basic accommodations, obviously!) or places to go camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: If you like to bike or ride motorcycles, La Calera is the perfect place to do it, especially on Sundays!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For groups or family vacations!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On the internet you can find many places where to stay, like cabins, hotels and Airbnbs, where many of them not only offer a room, but also other services, like transportation, firepits, bbq, pools and outdoor activities into the forest and waterfalls, which is a great deal for groups. But if you ask me, in addition to an all-included package, I prefer a beautiful cabin on the mountain, where you can do anything in the time you have, without taking time away from the things that you normally do on vacation. And also it\u2019s cheaper than a hotel! What I like about renting an entire place is that you have a big list to choose from: you can stay in a regular wood cabin<\/a> or maybe if you want to encourage your kids to be among nature and try a new experience, renting a treehouse<\/a> should be your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For romantics and honeymooners!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for relaxing days surrounded by a mountainous landscape? La Calera has places to stay where you and your partner can be perfectly spoiled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe you are looking for luxurious accommodation. If you are, you should visit \u201cLa Casa del Agua<\/a>\u201d (The Water House). They offer spa and breakfast in bed, and even special decoration for any celebration. If you are not into luxury things and want a more Colombian home-like experience in a magical colonial architecture house, there is the famous \u201cObservatorio de Colibr\u00edes<\/a>\u201d (Hummingbirds Observatory) where you can wake up surrounded by more than 14 free hummingbirds species, all while having a homemade breakfast in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Colombia is the country that has the most hummingbirds species in the world! So whether you choose to sleep here or not, it\u2019s still a reason for tourists to visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hope you find what you were looking for for your weekend break!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We personally love to visit La Calera. I use anything for an excuse to go on weekends with friends, family or with my husband to enjoy the weather in a cozy place (like I mentioned before) and eat at one of my favorite meat restaurants, El Tambor<\/a>, before going back to Bogot\u00e1. Going to La Calera is a must if you are in Bogot\u00e1!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to know more places near Bogot\u00e1, you have to read these\narticles: Places to Visit and Stay Near Bogot\u00e1 Places Near Bogot\u00e1: Escape the cold<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember that Bogot\u00e1 is in an amazing location, so you can find places with cold and hot weather in its surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now, do you know where you should stay in La Calera? Comment below which one will you go for or if you know any place to recommend to us and share it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Subscribe in our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get\nin touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Where to stay in Bogot\u00e1: meet La Calera!","post_excerpt":"When you think where to stay think about La Calera, a place where you will find many outdoor activities and amazing places to stay.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-calera","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:51:15","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:51:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=993","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":986,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-23 17:15:12","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-23 22:15:12","post_content":"\n

There are a million barrios <\/em>(neighbourhoods) in Bogot\u00e1, but the one that everyone knows is La Candelaria and for good reason. It\u2019s such a cool place even the president of Colombia calls it home! If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than this charming neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There a million of things to do in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, and La Candelaria is definitely on the top list. This neighborhood is the city\u2019s historic district encompassing everything from Casa de Nari\u00f1o<\/em>, which is where the President lives and works, to quaint little caf\u00e9s and stores and restaurants. With so many things to see and do, it\u2019s definitely the place to be! And with over 30 hostels (basically the highest concentration of hostels in the entire city) and quite a few hotels, there\u2019s no shortage of places to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by 2018 Google Maps<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rich history and current societal importance!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can see it in the architecture as you walk down the narrow streets, many of which are still cobblestone!  The Spanish influence is obvious, as most of the buildings are in the original colonial and Baroque style (some dating back centuries) and you won\u2019t find any skyscrapers. La Candelaria is home to a lot of the museums in Bogot\u00e1 including the Museo Botero<\/a> (Botero Museum), Museo Hist\u00f3rico de la Polic\u00eda Nacional<\/a> (the Police Museum), La Casa de la Moneda<\/a> (Currency Museum), MAMU<\/a> (Miguel Urrutia Art Museum), Museo Militar<\/a> (Military Museum), Museo del Oro<\/a> (Gold Museum) and La Quinta de Bol\u00edvar <\/a>(Simon Bol\u00edvar\u2019s house, read about him here<\/a>)! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful tip: many museums are free on Sundays! For some more Bogot\u00e1 history, you can also read about El Bogotazo<\/a> and El Dorado<\/a>.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The neighborhood also gets to claim Plaza de Bol\u00edvar <\/em>among its attractions, where you can find the Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), the House of Congress (El Congreso) and La Catedral Primada de Colombia <\/em>(officially the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) all bordering the main square. Another drawing feature is the graffiti, of which an entire tour<\/a> is dedicated to! It\u2019s conducted by people directly involved with the urban art scene and who personally know the artists whose work you will see! You\u2019ll get the stories and background behind the artists and their art. It\u2019s one of the must-sees in Bogot\u00e1, so even if you don\u2019t stay in La Candelaria, at the very least I recommend a visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta (Left) \/ Explore & Travel Colombia (Right)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The abundance of places to go out!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

La Candelaria has everything you need for breakfast with your mom, afternoon coffee with your coworkers and a night out with your friends.  Its numerous hot spots fill the streets with people from dawn into the late hours of the night. Check out <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nChorro de Quevedo<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small, but always poppin\u2019 square with lots of options for food, drinks and shopping or you could even just sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere (there\u2019s always music playing).  Nearby, is the university area near <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlazuela de las Aguas<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, where there are even more restaurants, bars, a few clubs too and my personal favorite, <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nAndr\u00e9s Expr\u00e9s<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, a small version of the super popular, <\/span>Andr\u00e9s <\/span><\/a>Carne<\/a><\/span> de Res<\/span><\/a>.  I also recommend going to <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nCalle 11<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

, right off of <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

.  You\u2019ll find several restaurants that all boast the best <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\najiaco <\/span><\/i>\n\n\n\n

(one of the <\/span>foods you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/span><\/a>) and be sure to stop by <\/span>La Puerta Falsa<\/span><\/a>, the oldest restaurant in the country, for some of their famous sweet <\/span>desserts<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The superb location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For the reasons I\u2019ve already stated, you should be realizing that La Candelaria is in and of itself a fabulous location because everything you could need is within walking distance! But, if you must go elsewhere in the city, it\u2019s very easy to grab transportation (these are the basics<\/a>). In the north of the barrio<\/em>, near Parque de los Periodistas<\/em>, is the Transmilenio <\/em>station, Las Aguas<\/em>, which is the starting point for a lot of lines. The big red buses only go north from here because they\u2019re too big for La Candelaria\u2019s tiny streets! But there are smaller buses (usually white) that pass through and don\u2019t worry; there are apps<\/a> that exist to help you navigate. If you\u2019re not trying to go the public transportation route, you can always take a taxi<\/a> or Uber<\/a> that will pick you up or drop you off almost anywhere in the neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This sort of falls under the second reason, but deserves it\u2019s own because of its charm. Carrera 7 <\/em>runs almost the entire length of the city and is therefore, one of the main streets in Bogot\u00e1. In La Candelaria, it stops being a street and only foot traffic is allowed. Once it gets a couple blocks from Plaza de Bol\u00edvar<\/em>, it turns into an area where I\u2019ve spent countless hours wandering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Best
\u00a9 Photograph by Andrew Villagomez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll find loads of stores lining both sides of the street to satisfy your itch to shop, as well as convenience stores if you want to just grab a beer and walk around. You\u2019ll see a plethora of vendors selling artisan crafts, unique artists creating and selling their art right there on the street and food and drink carts offering all sorts of traditional and non-traditional things (be on the lookout here for some of the drinks you must try in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>). By far, my favorite thing about this place is the random street performers. Sometimes, there are people posing as bizarre statues, sometimes there are Michael Jackson impersonators. Like the rest of the neighborhood, Carrera 7 <\/em>is go go go at all hours of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I got to live in the heart of La Candelaria for almost a month because that\u2019s where my homestay<\/a> was and I wouldn\u2019t have wanted to be anywhere else. I spent most of my time just walking and exploring and there was still lots for me to check out! This is why I make it a point to always visit whenever I\u2019m back in Bogot\u00e1 so I can cross more things off my list. If you want to read about some of the other neighborhoods like Cedritos<\/a>, Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>, Chic\u00f3<\/a>, La Calera<\/a>, La Macarena <\/a>or northern Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, click away, but if you get the chance to stay in La Candelaria, you will most definitely be glad you did!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking of staying in La Candelaria? Let me know where! Drop a comment and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com! Just can\u2019t get enough? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: why stay in La Candelaria","post_excerpt":"If you\u2019re trying to decide where you should stay in Bogot\u00e1, look no further than one of the best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1, La Candelaria!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"la-candelaria","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-04-21 09:34:23","post_modified_gmt":"2020-04-21 14:34:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=986","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":983,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-21 15:45:01","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-21 20:45:01","post_content":"\n

Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Here I tell you how to choose the right one!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When looking for a place with Airbnb, we all use the filters to choose the lowest price that has a good rating just because we don\u2019t like to spend hours scrolling through the website. But here I\u2019ll give you 4 important things to consider when you are looking for a place that will define part of your stay in Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Time<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you know how long you will stay in Bogot\u00e1, it\u2019s easy to figure everything else out, including the other 3 points. If you will only be in town for a few days for a business meeting or just a quick visit, maybe it would be more comfortable to just rent a room or go to a hostel through Airbnb<\/a>, but if you will be staying longer than a week, you may need more space, so it might be better to rent an entire place for you and your travel companions. Also, if you are planning to be around for more than few months, you can try different neighborhoods (like Cedritos, Mazur\u00e9n, Belmira, Salitre, Teusaquillo, Chapinero, etc) in and around Bogot\u00e1, before choosing where to live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Most of the places will give you a price discount if you stay more than a week, so keep that in mind!<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

2. Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your dates chosen, it\u2019s time to select a place to stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strata in Bogot\u00e1 range from 1 to 6 and these determine the cost of living expenses (for a more detailed explanation, visit this article). That\u2019s why you may notice there are neighborhoods more expensive than others, but while staying in an Airbnb you won\u2019t notice a difference. If you are coming to stay for more than a week, I recommend choosing a place depending on what surrounds it and I am not referring only \u201cLa Candelaria\u201d or the \u201cZona T.\u201d I mean a place that is near a market, a bus stop or even your job, your institute or a mall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Don\u2019t get lost! Bogot\u00e1 is a system of \u201ccalles y carreras\u201d (calles & carreras in Bogot\u00e1) that run from the east to west and from the center to north and south, so use this article to locate the address of your Airbnb.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

3. Price<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Remember that in many cases the neighborhood determines the price, but sometimes you stumble upon a bargain!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I booked on Airbnb, I wanted to rent an entire apartment in Cedritos neighborhood and I was not interested in changing it. So, without knowing, I took the risk of booking an apartment at the last minute, that no one had booked before and I was surprised with the amazing results: a great discounted price and a kind host!  So maybe it could work again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The payment method can save you a lot too. If you add a credit card and want to cancel a reservation, the refund works faster and in most cases, there\u2019s no fee. Also, on Amazon<\/a>, you can find Airbnb gift cards, and if you\u2019re really lucky, you can find them with discounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Tip: Sometimes paying with the local currency (COP) is better than paying with your home currency.<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

4. Amenities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Every apartment has their own amenities, some of which include more services than others. So if you think you found your ideal accommodation, check this part and see if it has all the basic things you will need in your day to day in Bogot\u00e1, like wifi, hot water for showers, bed sheets, towels, refrigerator, oven, and any others to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable like a gym, saunas, barbeque, washing machines and pools!\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, make sure to check out the reviews and ratings before booking; this will guarantee an amazing experience with Airbnb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out these articles for more options to stay in Bogot\u00e1 and enjoy your experience visiting the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finding Accommodation in Bogot\u00e1: 3 Reasons to Do a Homestay<\/a>, Your Guide to Bogot\u00e1\u2019s Chic\u00f3 Neighborhood<\/a>, Best neighborhoods in Bogot\u00e1: Santa Barbar\u00e1<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let's get the best out of Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 by sharing this article and the tips we know in the comments below, also if you know another website like Airbnb leave it too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter <\/a>and follow us on social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1: how to choose the right one","post_excerpt":"Airbnb in Bogot\u00e1 has lots of different options, some that make us feel like locals, and others like we\u2019re more at home. Choose the right one!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"airbnb-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:41:50","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:41:50","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=983","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":977,"post_author":"11","post_date":"2018-09-19 13:00:45","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-19 18:00:45","post_content":"\n

Do you love Colombia so much you want to officially be a part of it?\u00a0 Do you want to stay in the country indefinitely without having to worry about the hassle of obtaining a visa?\u00a0 Was at least one of your parents born in Colombia?\u00a0 If you answered yes to all three questions, then you might want to consider getting your Colombian nationality!\u00a0 And for the fastest processing, do it in Bogot\u00e1!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are the child of a Colombian citizen by birth, you are eligible to get nationality (if this doesn\u2019t apply to you, you can still apply for a number of visas, including a Student Visa<\/a> or a Work Visa<\/a>)!  The process to get Colombian nationality is relatively easy, allows you to bypass the visa nonsense and gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay for as long as you\u2019d like!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bogot\u00e1 is the quickest and easiest place to get this done because it\u2019s where everything would be sent for processing anyways if you were to do it elsewhere.  You just need the right documents, a few office visits, some patience and a conversational level of Spanish to communicate with officials (get prepared with some Spanish classes<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Documents needed:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Certified copy of your birth certificate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Apostille of the certified copy of your birth certificate (must be obtained in your home country, you can NOT go to your country\u2019s embassy<\/a> for this)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Translation of the certified copy of your birth certificate by an official translator (for a directory of approved translators, check with the Ministry of Exterior Relations here<\/a>) \u00b7     Proof of your blood type (I used my old <\/span>c\u00e9dula de extranjer\u00eda<\/span><\/i> - foreigner I.D. card)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of both sides of your Colombian parent\u2019s c\u00e9dula <\/em>(I.D. card)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Photocopy of I.D. and signature page of your non-Colombian parent\u2019s passport*<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u00b7     Professional passport photos (you need at least six)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

* If both of your parents are Colombian, I would imagine the process is the same and you would just submit a photocopy of both their c\u00e9dulas <\/em>instead of the passport of the non-Colombian parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can choose any of the Civil Registry (Registradur\u00edas<\/em>) offices<\/a> in Bogot\u00e1 to go to, but whichever office you start this process with, you must stick with until you receive your c\u00e9dula<\/em>, otherwise, you have to start over. The good news is this whole process is free!  You will, however, spend money on the required documents because chances are good that you don\u2019t already have the Apostille handy and that costs money, as does the translation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Registradur\u00eda Nacional Colombia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The first step is to go to the Registradur\u00eda <\/em>with all your papers and tell the information desk you\u2019d like to process your nationality and get your first-time c\u00e9dula<\/em>.  That person will check your documents (but not keep them) to make sure you have them all and then they will direct you to another desk where someone will fingerprint you and ask you some basic questions for a background check.  And that\u2019s all that will happen this visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office will call you when they have the results, which should take about a month.  This means you need a working phone, so don\u2019t forget to get a Colombian SIM card<\/a>!  Then you simply wait.  If you don\u2019t hear from them in that amount of time, I would recommend going back to the office and inquiring about the status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you receive word that you\u2019ve cleared your background check, you have the green light to go back to that same office and bring in all your documents to be submitted.  You will also need to bring a Colombian with a civil registry (i.e. a Colombian citizen) to vouch for you at the appointment and they will also have to submit a copy of their c\u00e9dula<\/em>, front and back, with your papers.  I recommend going first thing in the morning because this visit will last a couple of hours. You won\u2019t have to do much at this appointment, mostly more waiting around.  At the end of it, they will issue you a contrase\u00f1a<\/em> (your temporary I.D. while you wait anywhere from 1-3 months for your actual c\u00e9dula <\/em>to arrive) and your civil registry paper (ask for an official copy of it too because you will need it for your passport)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The office I used:  Registradur\u00eda Auxiliar La Candelaria<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carrera 7 #17-75, Locale 10 and 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Rachel Arrieta<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Getting a Colombian passport<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With your newfound Colombian citizenship, you can now get yourself a Colombian passport!  There are two offices in Bogot\u00e1 you can go to for this, just check the Canciller\u00eda<\/em>\u2019s website<\/a>.  All you need is the official copy of your Civil Registry paper, your contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and your home country\u2019s passport (to verify you entered the country legally). Like the Registradur\u00eda<\/em>, I recommend going in the morning when they open.  The passport office is much quicker and processing can be done in about an hour.  You\u2019ll get a number and wait to be called before you sit down with someone who will take your paperwork and do the rest of the work.  You just need to decide between the ordinario <\/em>passport with 32 pages ($165,000 COP or $59 USD) or the ejecutivo <\/em>with 48 pages ($255,000 COP or $91 USD). Once they finish, it\u2019s a 24-hour turnaround so you can go back the next day to pick up your passport!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"How
\u00a9 Photograph by Felipe Pinz\u00f3n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Office I used:  Sede de pasaportes en Barrio Chapinero<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Calle 53 #10-60<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hours:  8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a relatively simple and straightforward process to nationality as long as you have all the right documents in order.  Once you finally get your c\u00e9dula <\/em>and passport, it all becomes real and is the greatest feeling!  If you are planning on residing in Colombia for a while, you might want to consider setting yourself up with health insurance<\/a> and a bank account<\/a> (it\u2019s a lot easier as a citizen!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was about four weeks from the time I first walked in with all my paperwork to the moment I was handed my contrase\u00f1a<\/em> and passport (and less than two months after that, my c\u00e9dula <\/em>was ready for pickup).  I originally tried to do it outside the capital and ran into several issues that were dragging out the process.  So I abandoned the original office I went to and got it all taken care of in Bogot\u00e1, where it was more streamlined.  I\u2019m so glad I did because I had already left the country and come back, which meant I only had the 90 days the tourist visa allows and I knew I wanted to stay longer!  Whatever your reasons for pursuing citizenship, I hope you love being an official Colombian as much as I do!  Welcome to the dual nationality club! Got any specific questions?  Ask away!  Tell me what you plan to do with your newfound nationality in the comments and be sure to follow my articles on colture.com!  Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for all things Bogot\u00e1 related.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in contact with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"Colombian nationality: the foreigner\u2019s guide to obtaining it","post_excerpt":"Find out what you need and what to expect from the process of obtaining Colombian nationality as a foreigner with our how-to guide!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"colombian-nationality","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-05-07 12:01:00","post_modified_gmt":"2020-05-07 17:01:00","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=977","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":961,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-17 13:51:42","post_content":"\n

We all love malls, specially when it has all we are looking for! Here I spotlight 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1  that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin America <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I came to Bogot\u00e1 for the first time I was amazed about the architecture of the malls and also their extension. They are very prominent in this diverse city, not only because of the size but also for the environmentally friendly methods they incorporated in the buildings, setting a difference and winning recognition worldwide. So keep reading to be a \u201ccolture<\/a>\u201d shopper!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Unicentro<\/a>: the oldest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Ak. 15 #124-30<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 23:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 213 8800<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I wanted to start with the oldest mall in Bogot\u00e1, but don\u2019t judge too quickly! This mall is in good condition, and you won't realize it is 42 years old, but you will believe that this mall made a mark in Bogot\u00e1\u2019s history. I personally like Unicentro because it has all you need for your shopping (including your groceries), entertainment (casino, cinema, bowling, events) and plenty of restaurants to satisfy your palate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Centro Mayor<\/a>: the biggest<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Calle 38A Sur #34D-51<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 20:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 734 2048<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now let's go big! Centro Mayor is the biggest mall in Bogot\u00e1 and third in Latin America, after one located in Brazil and other in Panama It has almost 300.000 meters squared distributed within three floors with 432 stores and a parking lot, making this mall the host of many events. Centro Mayor is also known for having the biggest multiplex of the country, with 14 cinema theaters!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick tip: It\u2019s great for shopping, so get ready to spend all day there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Hacienda Santa B\u00e1rbara<\/a>: architecture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 7 #115-72<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 - 22:00 Sundays 11:00 - 21:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 612 0388<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This colonial mall located in Usaquen breaks every pattern of what malls are nowadays. In the past, it was a family\nestate farm, but finishing the 80\u2019s they opened their doors to people, presenting what we know today, a beautiful fusion between 1900\u2019s Bogot\u00e1 architecture and the contemporary feel of the 2000\u2019s. For me it\u2019s a wonderful place to visit on Sunday mornings, just to drink a coffee or have a snack in the mall and then go for a walk in the piazza next to it, which has a local arts & crafts market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas<\/a>: the biggest pro-environment mall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 71D #6-94 Sur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 - 22:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 446 7575<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This mall is the biggest in Latin America that works with solar panels, reducing considerably its environmental impact. Besides that it hosts more than 270 stores, Plaza de las Am\u00e9ricas offers other services for their shoppers, like solar trees to charge their cell phones, free bicycle service (ECOBICI), solar chargers for electric bicycles and motorcycles, free parking for bicycles, an environmental playroom for kids, and even talks about how you can do your part at home. This mall has won many awards for being an environmental awareness mall in Bogot\u00e1. Go green!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Andino<\/a>: the most exclusive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cra. 11 #82-71<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Open: Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 20:00 Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone: 031 621 3111<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in \u201cLa Zona T\u201d is El Andino almost everyone\u2019s favorite mall in Bogot\u00e1. Because it gathers important brands and designers from all around the world and receives millions of people per year, it\u2019s nominated as the most exclusive mall in Bogot\u00e1. It is also surrounded by numerous bars, restaurants, and stores, that makes it automatically a meeting point to start a great night out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, this mall has won many awards for its holiday decorations, so make sure to visit during a festive month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

El Ed\u00e9n<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\nIs another mall that will be coming soon and also will stand out from all malls in Latin America, because it\u2019s\ngoing to be in the top three of the biggest malls. It will be located in the Avenida Boyac\u00e1 with calle 13 We look forward to its opening and seeing the results of this four-year-old project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, I want to say that malls are really important businesses in Colombia, especially in Bogot\u00e1. It is an opportunity of recognition for Colombians and international brands to show their products and create a wonderful experience for the rest of the citizens and tourists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit all the malls without getting lost, read this article: Apps to Help You Get Around Bogot\u00e1<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take the most of your currency in Where to Exchange money in Bogot\u00e1<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you visited all the malls on the list? Which one was your favorite? Make sure to tell us in the comments below and share it with your friends!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more facts and curiosities about Bogot\u00e1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"5 facts about malls in Bogot\u00e1 that make a difference","post_excerpt":"Here I call out 5 malls in Bogot\u00e1 that stand out as the best in Colombia and in Latin Am\u00e9rica. Come and enjoy our city full of amazing shopping centers!","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malls-in-bogota","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:35:10","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:35:10","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=961","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":956,"post_author":"15","post_date":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-15 17:40:41","post_content":"\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was a leader who liberated Colombia and 5 neighboring countries, but besides what we have all read, you should know the facts that no one writes about.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Normally when you read about the life of Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar or go to a museum or his house in Bogot\u00e1<\/a>, they tell you what you want to hear, which is the relevant details. Only a few guides talk about the juicy stuff, so keep reading, because here I\u2019ll tell you everything you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar that not every guide will tell you, but you should still know because he is the most important person in the history of Colombia and a big part of Latin America too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His long name!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Jos\u00e9 Antonio de la Sant\u00edsima Trinidad Bol\u00edvar Palacio Ponte y Blanco was his full name.  Too much, I know, but back then, Catholics added a second or a third name to their child depending on the Saint who was celebrated\nin the month the kid was born. In some cases, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, they are named by the church where they got baptized and that\u2019s where \u201cSant\u00edsima Trinidad\u201d is from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tiny but without limits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We all know Bol\u00edvar as a leader and powerful person and judging from books and pictures, we think he was tall and had a very commanding presence. These qualities are true except his height. His stature was 1.68m (5\u20195\u201d) so now you will understand why his stuff at \u201cLa Quinta de Bol\u00edvar<\/a>\u201d (Bolivar\u2019s House) like his clothes are kind of little, but as this title says, it didn\u2019t limit him from liberating 6 countries from Spaniards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good poker face<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar was also known for being a great poker player. It\u2019s not a surprise since he was such a strategic-minded\nperson. At his house in Bogot\u00e1, you can see his playroom which he frequently played and bet with his guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pretty good writer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We have found letters from Bol\u00edvar addressed to many people, like politicians, family members and lovers too. In\nhis time and also today, he is recognized as being an amazing writer because of his extensive vocabulary; writing important documents such as the Pro-Independence Proclamation, War to the Death Decree and many others. Also, he was able to dictate 2 to 3 letters simultaneously. What a skill!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More than a lover, a conqueror<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of his appearance who wasn\u2019t too much for the stereotype back then, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar<\/a> had a deep look and very good at wooing women, making him a womanizer. There are records in letters that he had 35 women in his life. He started this passionate course at a young age, but there were 2 women that stole his heart: his wife, Mar\u00eda Teresa Rodr\u00edguez del Toro, and Manuela S\u00e1enz, his lover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How he died<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s still a mystery. In 1830, Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar died at 47 years old. According to the autopsy they discovered he died\ndue to tuberculosis. His death was very sudden and suspicious because of the people who surrounded him at the moment. That\u2019s why nowadays people have their doubts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We know what Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar did and left behind in Colombia and the other countries he liberated. If you want to know more about the History of Bogot\u00e1 make a click here<\/a>, and also I recommend you visit all the places that bear his name in Bogot\u00e1, like Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Park, Plaza Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar, \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hope you like the history of Bogot\u00e1 as much as I do, and keep reading more important facts and information you should know for your travel to this beautiful city that keeps growing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comment down below if you find out any facts that don\u2019t appear on the list and share it with the friend you want to\nvisit \u201cLa Quinta de Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar\u201d with (located in Calle 21 #4A-30 East)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a local business? Get in touch with us to be featured on our website<\/a>!<\/p>\n","post_title":"History of Bogot\u00e1: facts you didn\u2019t know about Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar","post_excerpt":"Besides what we have all read about history in Bogot\u00e1, you should know the facts that no one writes about the conqueror Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar.","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"simon-bolivar","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-08-14 16:30:40","post_modified_gmt":"2019-08-14 21:30:40","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/colture.co\/?p=956","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":10},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_1o3","class":"epic_block_23"};

Colture is a project to show places from a happiness perspective.

We want highlight and bring together all the amazing things from the places that are dear to us!

Join our community, comment and share!!

Do you want to advertise in our newspaper? /¿Quiere publicar su anuncio en nuestro periódico?

sales@colture.co

For other things / Para otros asuntos

hello@colture.co

Whee Institute + Colture

Learn Spanish in Bogotá

Learn Spanish in Colombia
Rated 5 out of 5
Fastest growing spanish School in Colombia

Colture - See places through the happiness glasses

\n