South America | Experience Colombia

Day 1: USA / Bogota |

Board your flight to your exciting South American escape. Upon landing in Colombia, meet your private transfer bound for JW Marriott Hotel Bogota for an elegant stay for three nights. Rising 10 stories above the city, delight in magnificent views, and easy access to shopping, entertainment, and attractions. Unwind in contemporary styling and premium amenities, plus a full-service spa, indoor lap pool, and four hotel dining options including chic Asian-fusion, Japanese cuisine, and a 24/7 international restaurant serving savory dishes and freshly made desserts.

Tonight, for a cozy, casual outdoor dining setting with a circus-theme ambience, head to Circo in the hotel. Choose from a selection of brick oven pizzas as you enjoy live music from the area's up and coming artists. Or, if you prefer to sample Colombian fare, stroll to nearby Harry Sasson, savoring mouthwatering chef-prepared dishes, premium meats and selections from an extensive wine and champagne menu.

Day 2: Bogota |

Following a cup of your new favorite Colombian coffee enjoy a guided Bogota and Monserrate Hills excursion. Begin in the historic La Candelaria neighborhood, its prominent Plaza de Bolivar, intriguing museums, colonial landmarks and vibrant streets. Continue to the sacred mountain of Cerro de Monserrate, rising more than 10,000 feet above sea level, where you discover a white Catholic church with a shrine and miles of panoramic vistas. After your mountain pilgrimage, visit the famous Gold Museum, Museo de Oro, with its impressive collection of pre-Colombian gold, followed by Museo de Botero, home to international artworks of Picasso, Monet, Renoir and more, with many art pieces from the museum's namesake, Fernando Botero.

Day 3: Bogota |

Depart early this morning on the See & Taste Bogota experience as you head to Paloquemao's Market, one of the largest and prominent farmer's markets in the country. Sample fresh juices made from exotic fruits such as lulo, curuba and passion fruit, and local favorites such as arepas, pandebonos and panelas before continuing to La Puerta Falsa, an acclaimed bakery and cafeteria. Enjoy breakfast dishes including agua de panela and queso before tasting traditional ajiaco and empanadas at Las Margaritas, with a sweet dessert ending.

This afternoon, relax with a dip in the pool or indulge in a pampering body treatment at the spa. Then, begin your evening with a favorite spirit from an extensive menu of cocktails and sake-based drinks, accompanied with fresh sushi and sashimi at NAU Sushi Lounge, followed by a superb dining experience at TAMARINE Asian Cuisine. Savor acclaimed pad thai, ginger chicken and vegetarian spring rolls with a sweet chocolate tamarine finale to celebrate your days on Bogota.

Day 4: Bogota / Cartagena |

After a hearty American breakfast, transfer to the airport for your short flight to Cartagena. Upon arrival, meet your private transfer to the boutique Charleston Santa Teresa, where you will stay for three nights in exquisite luxury. Set in the heart of a World Heritage site just two blocks from the sea, immerse in a regal fusion of historical grace and contemporary comforts amid the enchantment of colonial and Republican architecture, lively plazas and cobblestone laneways. Delight in a wealth of amenities including a full-treatment spa, rooftop pool, and three magnificent dining venues, including al fresco options with live music.

Transport through the centuries as you begin your first night of exploration, enjoying the sights, sounds and flavors of this remarkable city. Embark on an illuminating horse-drawn carriage ride, discover live bands and drinks on the exterior plaza or dine in one of the incredible restaurants in Centro Historico de Cartagena.

Day 5 - 6: Cartagena |

Following a leisurely morning, head out for an afternoon of sightseeing, culture and gastronomy on the guided Real Food, Real Places & Real People - Live Cartagena as a Local walking excursion. Indulge in tempting, authentic flavors and dishes from four or five different sites in a nearby residential neighborhood where residents live, eat and shop, with time to mingle with locals and uncover the secrets of the city's most fascinating landmarks.

Spend the next day at leisure. Greet the day with a delicious buffet breakfast before experiencing the captivating history, festive atmosphere and array of area attractions Cartagena has to offer. Discover the intricate galleries, tunnels, slopes and traps of the 17th century Fortress of San Felipe de Barajas, built by Spanish colonizers, just outside the walled city. Explore the Convent of La Popa and its amazing city views or spend some time in and around the ocean at the Rosario Islands for an unforgettable experience.

Day 7: Cartagena / Medellin |

Check out of your Cartagena hotel and board your private transfer to the airport for your quick flight to Medellin. Upon arrival, meet your private transfer bound for the Marriott Medellin, located in the fashion and financial district in sophisticated El Poblado, and settle into your contemporary guest room. Delight in an onsite spa and fitness center, outdoor pool with great views of the city and surrounding hills, and international and Asian restaurant dining options for a comfortable stay.

An upscale and popular neighborhood, head out on foot and discover a shoppers paradise at Santa Fe and La Strada malls; explore the opulent interior, French architecture and immaculate gardens of Museo El Castilo, and sip and savor from a variety of premium restaurants, lively bars and nightlife.

Day 8: Medellin |

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a day Guatape & El Penol Excursion. Meet your guide and begin with a scenic drive through the eastern highlands of Antioquia, and to the 200-year old monolith known as El Penol Boulder. Experience the thrill of climbing the 740-step staircase to the top for stunning views of the verdant mountains and azure lake. Continue to Guatape Resevior for lunch along the waterfront, followed by a boat ride on the lake. Your excursion concludes with a visit to the village of Guatape, famous for its beautiful church, colorful paintings and architecture.

Celebrate your last night in Colombia with your choice of dining venues in the hotel or just a short stroll away. Taste the country's biodiversity with premium chef-prepared Colombian cuisine from Restaurant Barcal or savor Mediterranean cuisine with an Asian twist, paired with a favorite wine and exquisite desserts at Restaurante La Provincia. For a casual setting, enjoy hearty salads, pastas, hamburgers and traditional arepas, try J&C Delicias or toast a fond farewell to Medellin with a glass of sakini and sushi in Nau, in the hotel.

Day 9: Medellin / USA |

Say adios to the wonderful cultural and traditions of Colombia as you relax in your private transfer to the airport for your homebound flight, and begin planning your next enchanting getaway to South America.