If you are considering a trip to Colombia, then an up to date guidebook is a worthwhile investment. Last week (January 24th 2012) Footprint released the latest edition of their Colombia Handbook.


I personally own two guidebooks (see photo above) - the previous edition of the Colombia Handbook by Charlie Devereux and the Bradt Colombia Guidebook by Sarah Woods. I’ve found both to be great for getting an overview of what each city offers, planning itineraries and finding good places to eat, drink and sleep. In addition, they give you a little bit of background on the history and culture. Out of the two, I’d have to say that the Footprint Handbook is slightly better. It has clearer maps and is better organised.


Although this new handbook is by a different author, a cursory comparison of its contents with the previous edition shows that it is primarily an update rather than a complete rewrite. Nevertheless, being up-to-date is an important asset for a guidebook - especially one on a country that is transforming as rapidly as Colombia.

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In a country affected by violence, this carnival is an exceptional space for peaceful coexistence and cultural diversity.
Gabriel García Márquez (Eminent Colombian author)

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Although the main event runs from Saturday 18th February until Tuesday 4th February, yesterday marked the start of events, with the launch of the so called “Pre-Carnival” in the Romelio Martinez stadium. The carnival foundation, which organises proceedings, ensures that at least 90% of the event is free - or over 35 shows!

Although the main event runs from Saturday 18th February until Tuesday 4th February, yesterday marked the start of events, with the launch of the so called “Pre-Carnival” in the Romelio Martinez stadium. The carnival foundation, which organises proceedings, ensures that at least 90% of the event is free - or over 35 shows!

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A tear of happiness rolls down the cheek of Andrea Jaramillo Char upon recieving news that she has been chosen as the queen of the 2012 carnival. The gorgeous 21 year old student of Business Administration has lived in Barranquilla all her life and loves the Caribbean and carnival culture.

A tear of happiness rolls down the cheek of Andrea Jaramillo Char upon recieving news that she has been chosen as the queen of the 2012 carnival. The gorgeous 21 year old student of Business Administration has lived in Barranquilla all her life and loves the Caribbean and carnival culture.

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The queen of the 2012 carnival, Andrea Jaramillo Char, arrived at the airport on Thursday to greet the players of Junior De Barranquilla football club who had just won the Colombian Football Championship. Congratulations Junior!!!

The queen of the 2012 carnival, Andrea Jaramillo Char, arrived at the airport on Thursday to greet the players of Junior De Barranquilla football club who had just won the Colombian Football Championship. Congratulations Junior!!!

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Some footage from the parade of traditions in Barranquilla, Colombia, enjoy!

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A nice photo of some clowns from the opening day of the carnival.

A nice photo of some clowns from the opening day of the carnival.

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Some colourful photos from the opening of the carnival, courtesy of “La Libertad,” Barranquilla’s local newspaper.

Some colourful photos from the opening of the carnival, courtesy of “La Libertad,” Barranquilla’s local newspaper.

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The poster for the 2011 carnival that begins on March 5th shows the slogan “¡Quién lo vive es quién lo goza!” which translated means “Who lives it, is who enjoys it!” - so book your tickets now!

The poster for the 2011 carnival that begins on March 5th shows the slogan “¡Quién lo vive es quién lo goza!” which translated means “Who lives it, is who enjoys it!” - so book your tickets now!

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A photograph of the very pretty Marcela Dávila Márquez, the queen of this year’s “Carnaval de Barranquilla”.

A photograph of the very pretty Marcela Dávila Márquez, the queen of this year’s “Carnaval de Barranquilla”.

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