Having fun in Colombia

People of Colombia are healthy and energetic. They loves sports and recreation and most participate is some outdoor activity despite their busy life styles or economic levels.

1 Sports

Organized sports in Colombia have grown steadily over the years with Football or Soccer as the most popular of these sports. Colombians compete regularly both recreationally and on a competative level. Colombians take their Soccer seriously and the country’s national team has qualified several times for the World Cup finals.

Baseball and Basketball have both enjoyed recent growth in popularity; golf, tennis and skiing are always popular forms of recreation for Colombians as is Bicycle Racing. This competative sport ends each year with the Tour of Colombia which spans over 1200 miles and usually lasts 12 days.

2 Recreation

With so many different regions the recreation in Colombia is very diverse. The mountainous regions have skiing and snowboarding as well as cross country skiing while the low lands offer hiking and camping, horseback riding, four wheel and off road excursions.

Exploring jungles and tropical terrain or ancient ruins attracts many tourists yearly as do the tropical beaches and islands off the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Water sports in these areas are understandably popular. You’ll find deep sea fishing as well as snorkeling and scuba diving at any of the coastal resort towns and cities. Boating and sailing are also popular. Though the coast of Colombia can offer a multitude of activities one of the most popular beach activities is simply lounging in a hammock or chair while sipping an icy beverage soaking up the rays or relaxing under a shady umbrella.

3 Nightlife

Nighlife in Colombia is as varied as it’s terrain. You’ll enjoy discos and modern dance clubs featuring energetic regional dance as well as familiar old favorites. Casinos provide hours of excitement nightly. These casinos often provide musical entertainment and if you’re lucky you’ll not only have a great time but you may leave with a fortune, small or large. For tamer after hours entertainment try any of the many jazz clubs and restaurants with wandering minstrels. Dine by candlelight and soft music or enjoy an open terrace with soft jazz notes drifting through the temperate night air. Beach bars provide boisterous entertainment that you may choose to participate in or simply watch while enjoying a drink.

4 Festivals and Celebrations

Colombian holidays and celebrations each year number in the hundreds. They range from local events lasting a few hours or a day while some national events last for days. Because much of the country is comprised of Catholics, you’ll see holidays and celebrations that embrace this religion. During Christmas and Holy week many Colombians go all out with mass displays of candles illuminating their streets and homes. Some of the biggest events in Colombia include Carnaval de Blancos y Negros and Carnaval de Barranquilla. Both draw international visitors and many plan their yearly vacations around these events. Colombia has almost twice as many holidays as the United States.