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.