Bogotá, Districto Capital is the capital, and largest city, of Colombia. As of 2009, Bogotá and its metropolitan area had an estimated population of 8,566,926. Bogotá is the largest city (land area) in Colombia, and one of the biggest of Latin America. It figures among the thirty largest cities of the world and it is the third-highest capital city in South America at 8,612 ft above sea level. Bogotá has a rich history (see helpful links below) and has much to offer today’s visitor.
Interesting Tip: Bogotá is a Green city. Ciclovia (“Bike Path”)—Every Sunday and holiday Bogotá’s main streets are closed to car traffic from 7 am to 2 pm so that runners, skaters and bicyclists can take over the streets. This is a great opportunity to go for a long walk and see the city.
WHERE TO STAY
Families traveling to Colombia are encouraged to stay in a residence specifically set up for adoptive families. Typically, these residences provide helpful services and facilities (e.g., cribs, bottle sterilizers, laundry, cleaning services and meals). Residences are located within walking distance from restaurants and shopping and often include Internet and cable. Examples of residences frequented by our families include:
Bogotá’s principal airport is El Dorado International Airport, west of the city’s downtown, at the end of Avenue El Dorado. A driver will be assigned to meet your flight and take you to your residence upon arrival. During your stay, there are many means of transportation, taxi being the most popular. You also will have the opportunity to use a taxi service/driver set up for you through your residence.
WHAT TO DO
Bogotá has something for everyone. Some of the highlights are:
- Monserrate Sanctuary http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Santuario_de_Monserrate,_Bogot%C3%A1.jpg
- La Candelaria (The Historical District) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Street_in_Bogota.jpg
- Atlantis Plaza Mall http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Tga_bogota_0427-1hgbbatlantis_plaza3.jpg
- Museums, including Bogotá’s Gold Museum, Botero Museum (http://www.banrepcultural.org/museos-y-colecciones/museo-botero), National Museum, and The Children’s Museum http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Children%27s_Museum_of_Bogot%C3%A1
- Usaquen—a colonial landmark where brunch and flea market on Sundays is a traditional activity.
- An endless list of green parks (lots of playgrounds for children) and amusement parks (i.e., Salitre Magico or Mundo Aventura.
- Salt Cathedral (just outside city limits) http://www.naviquan.com/idea/salt-cathedral/
- Professional Soccer
- Parque Jaime Duque (Jaime Duque Park and Zoo) http://parquejaimeduque.com/
- Shopping—Bogotá boasts many modern shopping malls, grocery stores, and baby boutiques
Bogotá has something for everyone and for every budget. Most residences will offer an affordable meal plan. Or, take the opportunity to explore the city and discover some of its culinary food finds. Examples of restaurants frequented by our families include:
- Crepes and Waffles http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294074-d785852-Reviews-Crepes_and_Waffles-Bogota.html
- Wok http://www.wok.com.co/
- El Corral http://www.elcorral.com/
- A Todo Taco http://www.bogotarestaurantes.com/detalle/1070/restaurante-a-todo-taco-santafe-bogota
- Jacques http://maps.google.com/maps/place?rlz=1T4ADBF_enUS271US271&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=jacques+in+bogota&fb=1&gl=us&hq=jacques&hnear=0x8e3f9bfd2da6cb29:0x239d635520a33914,Bogot%C3%A1,+Bogota,+Colombia&cid=10655312094349875509
- Juan Valdez Café http://juanvaldezcafe.com/index.php/page/show/35/menu_internal
- Archie’s http://www.archiespizza.com/index.php?option=com_restaurants&view=all&Itemid=17
- Bogotá Beer Company http://www.bogotabeercompany.com/index.php/home.html
- Parque 93 (an area with lots of restaurants surrounding a lively city park) http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294074-d590772-Reviews-93_Park_Parque_de_la_93-Bogota.html
- Club Colombia http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g294074-d806964-Reviews-Club_Colombia-Bogota.html
Maps, General Information, History, and More
Translations:
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