Their practice in experiential and mindful travel and their locals’ knack for identifying, explaining and sustaining the distinctive qualities of a place make them the perfect go-to people for travellers looking for unique ways to experience a destination. But sometimes, when travellers prepare to hit the road, they’re not choosy about where they want to go: they’re actively looking only for the best of the best – the best experiences in the best destinations based on information from the best travel experts.

To facilitate that process, whl.travel has announced the winners of its 2011 internal competitive performance review. Based on their work in 2011, four tour operators – one from each of four broad geographical areas – have been singled out as models for a set of whl.travel standards critical to the operation of their own businesses but also fundamental to the success of the global network. Assessment criteria included response times and customer service, maintaining an active social media presence and keeping destination Web portals up to date.

The whl.travel local partner in Malawi: The Responsible Safari Company (left to right: Chimwemwe Siyabu, Kate Webb, Dom Webb, Andrew Kayuni). Photo courtesy of The Responsible Safari Company

Malawi Triumphs in Africa

In Africa, whl.travel is anchored in about 40 destinations across 20 countries. Taking honors on this continent was the Responsible Safari Company, the whl.travel local connection for Malawi. Apart from demonstrating a strong commitment to community development through sustainable tourism initiatives, they have proven that they are serious about client services.

The whl.travel local connection in Boracay, Philippines: Go Discover Travels (left to right: Kristiana Jorjah Espiritu, Trudy Allen and Chaddy Cocjin; not pictured: Helen Atanacio and John Maclang). Photo courtesy of Go Discover Travels

The Philippines Shine in Asia and the Pacific

The whl.travel local partners in Nepal, the Philippines and northeast India stood out from the mix of more than 70 destinations in 26 countries in Asia and Oceania; however, it was the Philippines’ Go Discover Travels, one of the first partners to join the whl.travel network, that came out on top for their whl.travel Boracay Travel website. They also manage portals in the Philippines for Cebu, Palawan and Manila.

The whl.travel local expert in Corfu, Greece: Corfu Sunspots Travel (right to left: Sandra Broedner and Chrysa Tsakalakou; Andronikos Moutos not pictured). Photo courtesy of Corfu Sunspots Travel

Corfu Takes the Limelight in Europe and the Middle East

Corfu Sunspots Travel Ltd, the whl.travel local expert in Corfu, Greece, ranked above approximately 40 other destinations in about 20 countries in Europe and the Middle East. What started as a small family-run business back in 1986 has blossomed into one of Corfu‘s largest, most reputable and successful agencies.

The whl.travel local partner in Santa Marta, Colombia: Las Pleyades (Fabiola Duerig and Oliver Blanco). Photo courtesy of Las Pleyades

Colombia Conquers in the Americas

The whl.travel local connection in Santa Marta, Colombia, was crowned the winner in the Americas, where there are about 50 whl.travel destinations in 15 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The site for Santa Marta is owned and operated by Las Pleyades, a small company that is a big player when it comes to developing social and environmental travel.

“While every network is only as strong as its weakest link, it’s also as ambitious as its strongest,” commented Rob Shortland, CEO of whl.travel. “whl.travel relies on each local operator to help build and develop our shared global brand. If we want travellers to support local companies then it’s essential that their service standards compete with, if not exceed, that of the large global powerhouses. Add in a large dollop of local knowledge and we’re tough to beat.”

Fabiola Duerig and her husband Oliver, the cofounders of Las Pleyades Travel, enjoy a sunset over the bay of Taganga in Santa Marta, Colombia. Photo courtesy of Las Pleyades Travel

Fabiola is proud to call Colombia home and to share it with travellers eager for a local’s insights. As a seasoned traveller herself, she can appreciate the value of a local travel experience.

WHL Group: Which is your favourite WHL Group destination and which would you most like to visit?
Fabiola: My favourite destination at the moment is my own home – Santa Marta, Colombia – because I am able to experience its natural beauty every single day. Colombia as a whole is a great country in every sense, which more and more foreign tourists are starting to realise.

Outside of Colombia, the destination I would like to visit is India. Despite the poverty and misery I might see there, where 80 kids die every day from curable diseases like rabies, I don’t want to shut my eyes. It’s real. India has a very special culture and way of thinking, one so different from that of the western world. I also love their way of dancing and all the colours. I look forward to exploring it someday.

WHLG: What would you never travel without?
Fabiola: For me, the two biggest essentials are music and a passport. The rest are details.

Bahia Concha is part of what makes Santa Marta, Colombia Fabiola's favorite destination. It is also where she is lucky enought to call home. Photo courtesy of Las Pleyades Travel

WHLG: What do you miss most about home when travelling?
Fabiola: I suppose it depends on the country I visit. Here on the coast of Colombia, I really miss the high quality and variety of European food, but if I were travelling in Argentina, for example, I wouldn’t notice this so much. What I always miss, no matter the destination, are my friends and family if they’re not there with me to share all the exciting experiences of travel.

WHLG: What’s the most adventurous trip you’ve ever taken?
Fabiola: I would have to say a trip down the Death Road from La Paz, Bolivia, to a small town in the mountains. It is said to be beautiful, but I don’t think it is worth it because the road is so dangerous that you see the old remains of vehicles down below. Also, local people drive so fast that accidents are inevitable. So I am just glad to have survived that!

WHLG: What is your funniest travel experience?
Fabiola: It’s hard to say which is the funniest because I’m lucky to have lots of really funny ones to choose from. On more than a few occasions, I’ve found myself in situations I almost could not believe because it was so funny and surreal. But at the same time I know that it will be less funny when I try to relate it to someone because you have to live it. This is one of the joys of travel with your partner or your friends – you can laugh so many times about the same stories for years. You will always have the memories of that extraordinary, unusual situation that you shared.

Oliver looks out onto the stunning hills of across from the bay of Tananga with Kike, another partner on the Las Pleyades team in Santa Marta, Colombia. Photo courtesy of Las Pleyades Travel

For example, when I was travelling in Bolivia with a friend, the bus stopped in the middle of the night because there was a technical problem, as happens a lot there. When we got out of the bus to see what they were doing, we saw that they had pulled a frog out of the wheel! They managed this in a few hours without any technical instruments. It was amazing, but, as I said, it’s not that funny unless you were there.

WHLG: What is your scariest travel experience?
Fabiola: I felt frightened while crossing the border from Peru to Bolivia at night. I know now why it is not recommended!

WHLG: If you could go on holiday with anyone famous – living or dead – who would you take?
I would visit Fidel Castro with Albert Einstein in Cuba. I just think that they’re both admirable. Although they may have a lot of failures (like every human being), they are intelligent enough and I would help them to open their minds so we could improve all together. Maybe we’d find a political formula that solves all our social problems. Of course, I would take my husband Oliver with me too!

WHLG: Describe the best and worst accommodation you’ve ever stayed in.
Fabiola: The best would have to be Finca Barlovento here in Santa Marta between the river and the Caribbean Sea. The waves of the ocean sound like a whisper in your ears and the natural beauty just overwhelms you.

On the other end of the spectrum: as a backpacker I saw a lot of accommodations that compete for the ‘worst place’ award. Backpacker accommodations can surprise you in both negative and positive ways. I am happy with a clean bed in a clean room with a private bathroom, although it can also be shared, although shared bathrooms are generally less clean. The worst thing I’ve ever seen was in Peru, where the room smelled like bad eggs and Oliver found excrement on the floor of the bathroom. We decided to leave and found a great hostel (called La Casona) at a very fair price.

Fabiola and Oliver pose with team member Gilbert (center), who is one of their best drivers and friends. All three are very excited about their new vehicles, part of what makes them the best transfer service in Colombia between Santa Marta, Cartagena, Tayrona Park and Sierra Nevada. Photo courtesy of Las Pleyades Travel

WHLG: Describe your earliest travel memory.
Fabiola: I have early memories of the beaches in Southern Europe on holidays when I was two or three years old. I remember surfer beaches, the Mediterranean Sea and the Adriatic Sea.

WHLG: Please briefly explain what you think local travel is.
Fabiola: To me, local travel is being aware that you are visiting a different place where people have different habits and cultures, and if you are ready to accept and respect this, you can dive in and have a true travel experience. It’s about getting in touch with local people and eating in local restaurants to try the typical and recommended dishes. As an alternative to ‘all-inclusive’ resort-style travel, local travel means staying in small cabanas in the surrounding areas where you can see how local people really live, and choosing local tourist guides. Local guides can help you learn a lot about the people and their culture in a short time, because they have a great wealth of knowledge about the area, the history and the people.

WHLG: In what ways do you see local travel benefiting the country in which you live?
Local travel involves many different local people as the service providers of accommodations, tours and transportation. In this way, small companies have a chance to create jobs for more and more local people. We feel that, in our case, as a travel agency, this is one of our most important roles.

Key to preserving the area’s beauty for future generations is a strong environmental conscience, like the one exhibited by Las Pleyades, a local tourism company operating in the region since 2008 and setting green trends with its eco-conscious transfer and ground transportation services on the Colombian coast. Now, Las Pleyades is bringing its local efforts to a larger market by partnering with Green Path Transfers, a new global environmentally friendly transfer service.

The tranquil beach of Bahia Concha is set against Tayrona National Park's mountains, the Sierra Nevada for which Santa Marta, Colombia, is famous

A Natural Transition

When Las Pleyades first got started, its main aim was to provide access to accommodations and tours in Santa Marta. According to Fabiola Duerig, the company’s co-founder, the decision to provide transfers as well came naturally, in response to customer interest and desires. Initially this was in the form of complimentary taxi rides; however, as demand increased over time, a key business opportunity was revealed.

Joining forces with Green Path Transfers was the next logical step for Las Pleyades: a chance to formalise its approach. “We became a Green Path Transfers partner because we realised that transportation would become one of our new core businesses,” Duerig acknowledged.

At present, Las Pleyades’ transfer services cover the entire Caribbean coast of Colombia, including travel between the main coastal cities of Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Cartegena, Buritaca, Palomino, Riohacha and La Guajira. The trips most frequently requested run from Santa Marta to Cartagena or Tayrona National Park.

Gilbert, seen here with his taxi overlooking the Santa Marta coastline, is a driver/guide who works frequently with Las Pleyades. Photo courtesy of Las Pleyades

A Local Travel Experience

Las Pleyades–operated transfers add to the well-rounded experience the company provides to travellers. Their two bilingual drivers often even serve as tour guides; they help in purchasing local goods or groceries and showing visitors around, in addition to offering lifts to hotels, guesthouses or fincas (country estates or ranches), so no one gets lost.

In a country with Colombia’s reputation, this level of attention promotes a vital element of security. “Although security in Colombia, and even more in Santa Marta, is now much better, we are still in Colombia and tourists have to be careful with whom they interact,” Duerig said. “So this transportation guarantees safety from the beginning for people who don’t like risks.”

Of course, visitors love to interact with and learn from locals, which is easy when in the company of a knowledgeable driver. The transfer itself becomes part of the travel experience. In the end, travellers get more than just a transfer service or tourist experience, but rather a local experience.

Green Goals

Drawing attention to the value and importance of sustainable travel is a fundamental goal for this Santa Marta transfer and tourism company. By offering green alternative transport, the team at Las Playedes inspires travellers to think about how they can help preserve the planet.

Tayrona National Park is a huge natural paradise with exuberant vegetation, endless white-sand beaches (like Cabo San Juan del Guia pictured above) and an old indigenous settlement. Photo courtesy of Las Pleyades

Las Pleyades’ fleet of vehicles includes four taxis, 10 14-passenger vans and a chiva (wooden traditional Colombian open bus) with 40 seats. All vehicles use compressed natural gas instead of normal gasoline whenever travelling in urban areas, and whenever possible and accessible in rural areas as well.

“Here in Santa Marta, the taxis work with natural gas – so it is cheaper, environmentally more responsible and the taxi driver spends less, so he gains more,” commented Duerig. “For us it is important that local people like to work with us and deliver the best possible service.”

Local Gems

For responsible travellers, ecotourists and adventure seekers, Duerig recommends two nearby must-see natural paradises, both easily reached by vehicle.

Tayrona National Park, a natural reserve of 60 square kilometres is a wonderland for birdwatchers and site of some of the best beaches in the world. It is located 40 minutes east of Santa Marta.

Minca, a small village in the Sierra Nevada mountains, sits in a coffee-producing region and provides a tranquil escape for birdwatching, waterfall exploration and relaxation in a lush environment.

Just five minutes from Santa Marta, the small fishing village of Taganga, seen here at sunset, is just one of many area attractions enjoyably reached by local taxi. Photo courtesy of Las Pleyades

Green Partnerships

Las Pleyades adds to the growing number of local partners that have joined ranks with Green Path Transfers. The Santa Marta–based company looks forward to expanding the reach of its responsible-transportation business to travellers from all over the world and learning lessons from other Green Path Transfers partners.

“I hope that we may expand this business as soon as possible and represent Green Path Transfers in Colombia as its first environmentally conscious ground transportation company,” said Duerig. “I hope for mutual learning between us and the other Green Path Transfers partners.”

To learn more about Green Path Transfers and how to be part of carbon-neutral travel arrangements that emphasise green technology in a growing number of destinations around the globe, visit www.GreenPathTransfers.com.

A remote Colombian island located 30 miles off the mainland, the mysterious and isolated former penal colony of Gorgona is today home to a uniquely evolved ecosystem complete with endemic species inhabiting a jungle wilderness.

Humback whales visit the shores of Gorgona, Colombia each year between August and October

Gorgona was the site of a prison until the mid-1980s, when the government of Colombia formally recognised the island’s outstanding ecological diversity and declared it a national park. Whales now calve their young here in the peaceful surrounding waters – there are no nearby shipping routes – while on land commonly spotted fauna include the blue anole and the brown booby.

Today, this wildlife, as well as the superb natural features, first-rate diving and whale watching are the island’s strongest draws for tourists. All movement on the island must be in the company of a guide, required in part due to the island’s protected status, but also for the safety of visitors, so a Gorgona tour or an excursion from the dedicated dive centre provide great opportunities to explore the forests, coves and ruins, and perhaps even spy some of the shier species. The name Gorgona is derived from the Greek myth of the serpent-haired Medusa, as the island is home to a number of species of poisonous snakes.

While the areas not inhabited by humans continue to be filled with the cries of monkeys and other fauna, human settlement has been allowed in a manner consistent with the new protections in place. Simple, tranquil and sustainable accommodation – including some now-converted jail structures and rustic cabins like the Cabins in the National Park – has been specially established for both visitors and park workers.

Aviatur, the new whl.travel local connection, is the exclusive operator for trips to Gorgona, in cooperation with the Colombian government, which takes the preservation of this national treasure very seriously. No new construction is permitted and all visitors to the island must be approved in advance, most guests travelling as part of specially organised packages to this remote paradise. The experts at Aviatur are also responsible for the operation of other national parks in Colombia, evidence of their commitment to the importance of sustainability and the preservation of their Colombian national assets.

If spending time on a historic island wilderness overflowing with natural splendour, Gorgona is an ideal slice of the planet.

Other whl.travel destinations in Colombia include Cartagena and Santa Marta.

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EN ESPAÑOL / IN SPANISH:

The island of Gorgona, Colombia is a scuba diver's paradise, surrounded by numerous smaller keys

Una remota isla colombiana localizada a 30 millas del continente, la misterioso y aislada antigua colonia penal de Gorgona es hoy hogar únicamente de un evolucionado y complete ecosistema con especies endémicas habitantes de una jungla salvaje.

Gorgona fue sitio de prisión hasta mediados de los 80s, cuando el gobierno de Colombia formalmente reconoció la sobresaliente diversidad ecológica de la isla y la declaró Parque Nacional Natural. Ballenas hoy paren sus crías en este pacífico entorno acuático – no hay rutas de barcos en la proximidad – en tanto que en tierra la comúnmente moteada fauna incluye la lagartija azul y el piquero cafe.

Hoy ésta vida silvestre, como también la espléndidas características naturales, buceo de primer nivel y el avistamiento de ballenas son las más fuertes señales para los turistas. Todo movimiento en la isla debe estar acompañado por un guía. Requerido en parte por el estatus de área protegida de la isla, pero también por la seguridad del visitante, así que un tour en el Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona o una excursión al centro dedicado al buceo provee grandes oportunidades de explorar los bosques, ensenadas y ruinas y quizá hasta espiar alguna de las tímidas especies. El nombre Gorgona se deriva del mito griego de la medusa con serpiente en lugar de sus cabellos, toda vez que la isla es hogar de un número de especies de serpientes venenosas.

Mientras que las areas no habitadas por humanos continuan ocupadas con las crisa de los monos y otras especies de fauna, los asentamientos humanos han sido permitidos de una manera consistente con la protección del lugar. Acomodaciones simples, tranquilas y sostenibles – incluyendo algunas estructuras de la cárcel y cabañas rústicas remodeladas como las cabañas del parque nacional – han sido especialmente establecidas tanto para visitantes como para trabajadores del parque.

Aviatur, el nuevo contacto de mayoristas de viaje es el operador exclusive para los viajes a el Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona, en cooperación con el gobierno de Colombia, que toman la preservación de este tesoro nacional muy seriamente. Ninguna nueva construcción es permitida y todos los visitantes de la isla deben ser aprobados con anticipación, muchos huéspedes viajan como parte de algunos de los paquetes especiales organizados para este paraíso remoto. Lo expertos en Aviatur son también responsables por la operación de otros parques en Colombia, evidencia de su compromiso con la importancia de la sostenibilidad y la preservación de sus activos nacionales colombianos.

Si pasar tiempo en una histórico Parque, rebosante de esplendor natural, El Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona es una parte ideal del planeta.

Otros destinos del mayoristas de viaje en Colombia incluyen Caratagena y Santa Marta.

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EM PORTUGUÊS / IN PORTUGUESE:

Uma remota ilha colombiana localizada a 50 km do continente, misteriosa e isolada ex-colônia penal de Gorgona abriga hoje um ecossistema exclusivo com espécies endêmicas que habitam uma região de selva.

The former penal colony of Gorgona, Colombia is now the perfect island on which to unwind

Gorgona foi local de uma prisão, até meados dos anos 1980, quando o governo da Colômbia reconheceu formalmente a acentuada diversidade ecológica da ilha e a declarou um parque nacional. Baleias agora dão a luz a seus filhotes nas águas tranquilas de Gorgona – não existem rotas de navegação nas proximidades – enquanto em terra frequentemente são vistos exemplares da fauna que incluem o Anole Azul e do Atobá Marrom.

Hoje, essa fauna, bem como os admiráveis recursos naturais, mergulho de primeira e as baleias são os maiores atrativos que convidam os turistas a ilha. Todo e qualquer movimento na ilha deve ser feito na devida companhia de um guia, exigido em parte devido ao status de proteção da ilha, mas também para a segurança dos visitantes. Por isso os passeios em Gorgona ou uma excursão a partir do centro de mergulho dedicado oferecem grandes oportunidades para explorar as florestas, grutas e ruínas, e talvez até admirar algumas das espécies mais tímidas. O nome Gorgona é derivado do mito grego da Medusa, ja que a ilha é o lar de diversas espécies de cobras venenosas.

Embora as áreas da ilha não habitadas por serem humanos sejam preenchidas com os gritos dos macados e outros animais, alojamentos têm sido permitidos de uma maneira consistente com as novas regras de proteção do lugar. Acomodações simples, tranquilos e sustentáveis – algumas incluem algumas estruturas da antiga prisão como as rústicas cabines – foram criadas especialmente para visitantes e trabalhadores do parque.

Aviatur, a conexão da whl.travel em Gorgona, é a operadora exclusiva de viagens à Gorgona, em cooperação com o governo colombiano, que tem preservado esse tesouro nacional com muita seriedade. Não são permitidas novas construções e todos os visitantes da ilha devem ser previamente aprovados, a maioria dos clientes viaja como parte de pacotes especialmente organizados para esse paraíso remoto. Os especialistas da Aviatur são também responsáveis pelo funcionamento de outros parques nacionais na Colômbia, a prova de seu compromisso com a importância da sustentabilidade e da preservação do seu património nacional colombiano.

Para passar o tempo em uma ilha histórica cheia de esplendor natura, Gorgona é uma fatia ideal do planeta.

Os outros destinos da whl.travel na Colombia incluem Cartagena e Santa Marta.

Santa Marta, Colombia

The greatest historical claim to fame of Santa Marta, Colombia, is that it is one of the first places in the Americas colonised by the Spaniards in the 16th century. Known as the “pearl of the Colombian Caribbean,” the historic port is one of immense natural scenery and boasts the highest coastal mountains in the world – the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

The tranquil beach of Bahia Concha is set against Tayrona National Park's mountains, the Sierra Nevada for which Santa Marta, Colombia, is famous

Anyone who visits Santa Marta must visit Tayrona National Park, a natural paradise with some of the best beaches in the world, the mystical Lost City in the nearby mountains and the surrounding estuary mouths of rivers at the Caribbean Sea. It is also worthwhile to visit the small bays and towns nearby to interact with local people and to learn about their customs and culture.

In the city of Santa Marta, travellers can find in South America’s oldest building (La Casa de Aduana, from 1531) as well as the “mother of all Colombian churches”. A final must-see is the open-air museum Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, a 17th-century hacienda where the liberator of South America, Simón Bolívar, spent the last few days of his life.

Day Trips

Visitors can easily fill an entire day with the fascinations of Tayrona National Park, the indigenous town of Pueblito and marvellous Crystal beach. However, we recommend trying a combination tour so that travellers can maximise their sightseeing time. For example, a Sierra Nevada and Tayrona National Park tour covers a lot of ground, from the small coffee town on Minca just 14 kilometres from Santa Marta to the Sierra Nevada highlands and back down to Crystal beach, all in one day!

The Pozos Azulues, or Blue Fountains, are a refreshing sight near the small coffee village of Minca just 14 kilometers outside of Santa Marta, Colombia

Other day trips in the area should always include a short visit to the quaint fishing village of Taganga or the tourist town of El Rodadero by Chiva bus.

Cruise-ship passengers stopping in Santa Marta can make the most of their short time with specially tailored tours. Other excursions like sport fishing and helicopter rides are available for those who aren’t up for the popular six-day trek to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida).

Shopping

Avenida Quinta is a lively street for shopping in Santa Marta and finding the latest fashion, while antique shops and traditional clothes shops surround the Cathedral. Of course, there are plenty of typical souvenir shops in El Rodadero with all the standard tourist knickknacks and the local sweets handmade with local fruits that visitors love to sample. The classic souvenirs in Santa Marta are pieces of jewellery and handicrafts made of seashells. The typical hat of the coastal people, the sombrero vueltiado, is also a hot item.

Restaurants

For great, authentic Santa Marta cuisine, a favourite among locals is definitely the Hotel Sierra’s Sound in Minca, 30 minutes from Santa Marta on the way to the Sierra Nevada. It offers delicious regional dishes such as roasted meats (and some international options too) in a relaxed atmosphere right next to the Minca River.

A wealth of biodiversity and wildlife, such as this toucan in its natural habitat, can be spotted in the Tayronaka Reserve near Santa Marta, Colombia

In the city, some good Santa Marta restaurants are Chuchos and the Gran Manuel (both famous for seafood), and Ben’s & Josep’s always comes through with nice juicy steaks. Just recently, a small tapas restaurant called La Tasca opened next to Parque de los Novios, offering very authentic Spanish tapas at a fair price. In Carrera 6 Nr 14-15 there is a nice local restaurant that serves up typical almuerzos (lunches) with soup, chicken, meat or fish accompanied by rice, fried bananas or beans with salad only for 5,000 pesos (about US$3).

Local Treats

The beaches of Santa Marta are said to be the best of the Colombian Caribbean and each one has its own enchantments, especially the beaches of the Tayrona National Park. The surf is dangerous at the beautiful strands of Arrecifes and Cañaveral, while la Piscina and Cabo de San Juan are very calm bays. Only reachable on foot are the lesser-known bays of Neguanje – Cinto, Chengue and the so-called Sea of the Seven Waves.

Of all the beaches on Santa Marta, the calmest and warmest are Bahía Concha and Bonito Gordo. Close to there, you have the small bays from Sisihuaca to Playa Grande and finally Taganga, while surfers congregate at the beaches next to Tayrona Park like Los Angeles, Los Naranjos and Casagrande.

A view of the Cabo San Juan del Guia beach, one of many lush stretches of coast to be discovered in Colombia's Tayrona National Park

Night Out

Santa Marta’s nightlife is less wild and impressive than larger destinations like Cartagena. Visitors will find the most action on the weekend. The bigger nightclubs and bars are located next to Parque de los Novios, and the more laid-back Crab’s Bar or the Figueres Bar hide out in Calle 18 No 3.

Nearby Taganga has become the new hot spot, where local haunts like Sensation and El Mirador de Taganga are great places for locals and foreigners alike.

For anyone who want to enjoy local Vallenato sounds or salsa, just hang out in any grocery store, Maria Bukana or the Terraza Latina in Calle 30.

Antigua & Barbuda

Head to the islands in the heart of the Caribbean. While most travellers from the northern hemisphere prefer to travel to the Caribbean between November and February, the perennially perfect beach conditions and weather ensure Antigua and Barbuda a place on our list of autumn holiday locales. Antigua alone has 365 white, sandy beaches, but going to the beach is just scratching the surface of things to see and do on the islands. Activities range from sailing and diving at one of Barbuda’s 200 ship wrecks to visiting Barbuda’s Frigate Bird Sanctuary. Antigua and Barbuda have rich music, culture, song and dance, and centuries of traditions. If this isn’t enticing enough, hotel rates are significantly lower at this time of year.

Cartagena, Colombia

Once a favourite looting ground for Caribbean pirates, Cartagena is Colombia’s most popular holiday spot. Located on the country’s Caribbean coast, it is a spirited city with colourful buildings and lively residents. Founded in 1533, the city comprises the Ciudad Amurallada, or old walled city, and the modern Bocagrande. Beautiful Spanish architecture can be seen in the walled city, a UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site, especially the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas fortress that was built in the 17th century and the colonial houses. Cartagena’s cultural heritage isn’t its only draw. The beaches of Cartagena, gorgeous scenery and delicious cuisine make it a spectacular choice for a holiday. High season begins in December, so travel here in autumn before the prices go up and ahead of Cartagena becoming South America’s most popular destination!

Lijiang, China

Rich cultural and historical traditions along with the kindness of the local residents have made Lijiang a popular destination for Chinese and foreign tourists alike. Its Old Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and the city’s unique architecture stems from its location at the confluence of Tibet, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces. Lijiang is surrounded by dramatic landscapes and snow-capped mountains where hiking and cycling are popular outdoor activities. The majority of the city’s inhabitants are ethnic minorities, particularly the Naxi, Yi and Bai, and there are many ways to experience the local, traditional way of life, particularly on a homestay trek. Autumn brings drier weather, cheaper hotel rates and fewer tourists to Lijiang. Don’t forget your hiking boots!

Vilnius, Lithuania

The bizarre bust of Frank Zappa isn’t the only reason we love Vilnius. Crowned the European Capital of Culture in 2009, this picture-perfect city has one of the largest World Heritage-listed old towns in the world; ; in spite of invasions, it has beautifully preserved Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance structures. Wandering through Vilnius’ labyrinthine streets and spending time in the living museum that is the city’s Old Town transports you back to medieval Lithuania. Vilnius residents are no strangers to occupation, and because of it delight in independence, cultural events and festivals. Even the capital has its eccentricities, like the self-proclaimed independent city called the Republic of Užupis. If you’re more interested in history, travel a short distance to the medieval island castle of Trakai. Fewer tourists travel to Lithuania in autumn as the weather is turning colder, but we think it’s the perfect time to experience Vilnius without the crowds.

The Gulf of Hammamet, Tunisia, as seen from the whitewashed buildings in the ancient medina

Hammamet, Tunisia

Stunning whitewashed buildings aren’t only found in Greece. Though it’s billed as North Africa’s premier beach destination and is better known as the ‘Tunisian St. Tropez,’ Hammamet is a seaside destination with much more to offer those in search of R and R. The city itself is surrounded by the ancient fortification of the Hammamet Kasbah and the narrow back alleys that reach toward the old medina are full of bright, whitewashed buildings with blue trim and intricate architectural designs. Hammamet and the surrounding region of Tunisia have a glorious history and ancient Roman baths famous for healing mineral waters are located within the city’s medina, while the Roman ruins of Pupput are only three kilometres away. The cooler autumn climate and Hammamet’s proximity to the capital, Tunis, make trips to Tunis and Carthage as easy as those to other Roman ruins, like Thuburbu Majus and Dougga. The combination of past and present, the Mediterranean climate and off-season deals pin Hammamet as our pick in Africa.

The Café Literario Balmaceda in the Providencia district of Santiago, Chile, is one of the most popular literary cafés in the city. It has an excellent selection of coffees and, even more importantly, a collection of more than 30,000 books.

A Fine South American Literary Vintage

One part of South America’s Pacific flank, Chile has produced some prodigious literary talent, earning it the nickname the Land of Poets. This talent even includes two Nobel laureates, Gabriela Mistral (who was the first Latin American to receive this accolade back in 1945) and the world-renowned poet Pablo Neruda (nom de plume of Neftalí Ricardo Reyes Basoalto, who took the name in honour of the Czech writer, Jan Neruda).

The country’s best-known novelist, however, is probably Isabel Allende (who was born in Lima, Peru, and is first cousin once removed of the former Chilean president Salvador Allende), who penned the bestseller La casa de los espíritus (House of the Spirits). Her style of magical realism has drawn comparisons with another South American heavyweight, writer and Nobel Prize-winner Gabriel García Márquez, who hails from Colombia.

Chileans are understandably proud of their literary heritage and of their status as one of South America’s biggest producers of books. The Chilean capital, Santiago, is brimming with literary cafés buzzing with locals putting the world to rights or just looking to get away from it all and enjoy a coffee in peace and bookish solitude. Some cafés house a dizzying array of literature, including the autographed works of famous authors.

The African Queen of Sleuthing

Up until quite recently, the landlocked southern African nation of Botswana would have been noted more for its diamonds and desert; however, the vastly popular novels by Alexander McCall Smith detailing the exploits of Mma Precious Ramotswe, Africa’s very own Miss Marple, and her No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, have put the country firmly on the literary map.

These baobab trees in the Kalahari Desert have long been great symbols of Botswana. The publication of Alexander McCall Smith's series of books featuring the super sleuth, Mma Precious Ramotswe, has provided yet another as a great boon for the local tourist industry.

Born in Zimbabwe, but having lived for several years in Botswana, McCall Smith used his novels to paint an accurate and affectionate portrait of the country and of African life, a refreshing and welcome counterpoint to the many negative depictions of the continent. In fact, such has been the books’ appeal that they have been published in over 40 countries and even found their way onto the small screen as a series directed by the late Oscar-winner Anthony Minghella.

This has of course meant great things for the Botswanan tourist industry. Plenty of visitors now flock to the capital city of Gabarone to enjoy a cup of red bush tea, the favoured beverage of McCall Smith’s portly heroine, who is now also the subject of tours.

Hellenic Histories

The ancient nation of Greece packs a serious literary punch. From Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey to the famed works of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides, the three great tragedians of classical Athens, Greece’s influence as the birthplace of Western culture is undisputed. The Greek islands too, with their stunning natural landscapes, have proved an effective muse for many a writer.

Lying just off the southern coast of Albania, the Ionian island of Corfu was also nicknamed Durrell’s Island in recognition of its most famous literary residents, the cosmopolitan novelist Lawrence Durrell and his brother, Gerald, a naturalist and writer. The Emerald Isle, as it’s also known, features heavily in both of their works although Gerald’s novels My Family and Other Animals and Birds, Beasts and Relatives are a decidedly more irreverent and light-hearted look at their time on an island known for its commitment to nature and tradition.

Myrtos Beach on the Greek island of Kefalonia is famed for its crystal-clear turquoise water and has been voted Greece's best beach 12 times. It was one of the locations used during the filming of the 2001 movie 'Captain Corelli's Mandolin' – aficionados may remember the bomb scene was filmed here!

The volcanic isle of Santorini is lauded as one of the most beautiful spots in the Aegean and is believed by many to be the lost island of Atlantis. It is dominated by a huge caldera, whose beauty has spurred many a poet and novelist into fits of creativity and unbridled exaltation, including an homage by the Nobel winner Odysseas Elytis. The French existentialist philosopher and writer, Jean-Paul Sartre, even set his play Les Mouches (The Flies) in the village of Emporio, having visited the area with his partner and fellow intellectual, Simone de Beauvoir.

Forever immortalised in the Louis de Bernières bestseller and subsequent Hollywood blockbuster movie, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, the Ionian island of Kefalonia has done well out of its 15 minutes of fame, offering a number of tours that take in locations used during the making of the movie. Luckily Kefalonia is still far from becoming a Captain Corelli theme park and with its exquisite beaches, lush interior and secret finds, it is not hard to see what is still its real allure.

The third largest of the Greek islands, Lesvos is often referred to as the Island of Poets. Largely unspoiled, Lesvos is famed as the birthplace of the ancient lyric poetess, Sappho, who hailed from the small village of Eresos, now a major tourist hotspot.

A Polynesian Treasure Island

When Robert Louis Stevenson, of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Kidnapped fame, first visited the South Pacific island kingdom of Samoa, he was so taken with the archipelago that he made it his home, settling on the island of Upolu. By far the most famous palagi (white man) to ever make it to these shores, he was quickly taken in by the Samoans and became a valued member of the community, even adopting the native name Tusitala, meaning ‘Storyteller’ in Samoan.

The second largest Samoan island, Upolu, is famed not only for its natural beauty and romantic charm, but for its most renowned resident, the 19th century Scottish writer, Robert Louis Stevenson. Stevenson's former home on the island has been turned into a museum in his honour and his tomb lies next to his wife’s on the summit of nearby Mount Vaea.

Stevenson’s sudden death in 1894 shook the locals greatly. He was buried atop Mount Vaea, where his tomb remains, engraved with an epitaph he penned himself, and which was translated into a Samoan song of grief:

Under the wide and starry sky
Dig the grave and let me lie:
Glad did I live and gladly die,
And I laid me down with a will.
This be the verse you grave for me:
Here he lies where he longed to be:
Home is the sailor, home from sea,
And the hunter home from the hill.

The Caribbean port of Cartagena, Colombia, lives up to its romantic reputation as a city of rich history interwoven with a vivacious culture full of music, tasty cuisine and good-humoured people. Its location in the extreme north of Colombia delivers unbeatable views out to the sea and an agreeable climate all year long, making it an attractive winter escape for everyone.

These Cartagena streets' flower-filled balconies are not only eye-catching sights during the day, but exude a special magic when the sun goes down and artists and locals fill the neighbourhood.

With a long history as a much-frequented tourist destination, Cartagena promises well-developed holidaymakers’ infrastructure. The city is fully stocked with interesting things to do, from touring the historic walled town centre, to relaxing on one of the area’s many sandy beaches.

A full range of Cartagena accommodation options is available to help make visitors feel right at home, from international backpacker hostels to the high-rise hotels that fill the skyline. There’s something to fit every budget and taste. Travellers looking for a young, vibrant atmosphere will fit right in at the Hotel North Star Backpackers, while those yearning to get back to nature will be completely satisfied at the Hotel Sport Baru, which offers fully equipped eco-friendly accommodation just outside of the city itself.

Direct booking of tours and hotels in Cartagena is now possible through www.cartagena-hotel.travel, managed by Las Pleyades, the whl.travel local connection. Firmly established in Colombia, Las Pleyades has scoured the city and only recommends what they consider the best of the best.

“We love to show the travellers the treasures of the Colombian Caribbean and really try to offer products to meet all taste,” commented Fabiola, speaking for the Las Pleyades team. “Our work with whl.travel and positive experience launching a travel portal in Santa Marta encouraged us to expand our work to Cartagena de Indias. While Santa Marta offers the most beautiful natural areas and beaches, the beauty of Cartagena is the prestigious old colonial city, which makes you feel like you entered in a fairytale, and the paradisiacal archipelago of the Rosario Islands. As an important part of our work with whl.travel, we are also always trying to contribute to the maintenance and protection of the environment and the culture of the local people.”

Las Pleyades certainly have their priorities in order when it comes to social responsibility, and look for every possible way to help the local community. Instead of turning a blind eye to the problems they see, they use tourism and their business as a means for change. One project the team is passionate about is an initiative catering to the needs of the many children living on the street in Santa Marta. Read more (in Spanish) on Facebook.

The company also does its best to employ locals as taxi drivers, bus drivers, cleaning personnel, and local accommodation staff, and has a policy of training locals from impoverished neighbourhoods to be tour guides. “We feel proud to have launched this new portal, because it’s linked with a network of real working possibilities for lots of locals in Cartagena,” continued Fabiola. “There is certainly a lack of employment in the coastal cities, where more than 50% of the people support themselves through informal labour, such as selling minutes to make local and national phone calls.”

Cartagena is the second Colombian destination in the whl.travel network, preceded by the portal for Santa Marta.

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EN ESPAÑOL / IN SPANISH:

El puerto caribeño de Cartagena, Colombia, hace honor a su reputación romántica de una ciudad con una historia rica y enriquecida por una cultura viva llena de música, buena gastronomía y gente alegre. Su ubicación el el extremo norte de Colombia hace posible incomparables vistas al mar y un clima agradable durante todo el año, lo que la convierte en un lugar perfecto para escapar del invierno.

A fruit seller walks the streets of Cartagena de Indias to enchant both locals and tourists with her winning smile and her delicious fruit salads

Con su larga historia en el turismo de alto nivel, la ciudad de Cartagena promete una infraestructura turística muy bien desarrollada, sea para vacaciones o viajes de negocio. La ciudad está llena de oportunidades para realizar actividades interesantes, desde la visita al centro histórico de la ciudad amurrallada, a relajarse en una de las numerosas playas de arena de la zona.

Cartagena ofrece una gama amplia de alojamientos para que los visitantes se sientan como en su casa; de los hoteles boutique en el centro hasta los hostales de mochileros internacionales y resorts modernos que se ven el el horizonte. Hay algo para todos los gustos y presupuestos. Viajeros que buscan un ambiente de jóvenes y fiesta estarán mejor en el Hostal North Star Backpackers, mientras los que quieren sentir la naturaleza serán satifechos totalmente en el Hotel Sport Barú, que ofrece instalaciones de alojamiento completas y ecológicas fuera de la ciudad.

Reservas directas de tours y hoteles en Cartagena son ahora posibles a través de www.cartagena-hotel.travel, manejado por Las Pleyades, la conexión local de whl.travel. Establecidos firmemente en Colombia, Las Pleyades se conocen la ciudad del todo y recomiendan sólo lo que consideran lo mejor de lo mejor.

¨Nos encanta mostrar a los turistas los tesoros del caribe colombiano y realmente intentamos ofrecer productos para cubrir todos los gustos. Nuestro trabajo con whl.travel y la experiencia positiva con nuestro portal de Santa Marta nos motivaron para expander nuesro trabajo a Cartagena de Indias¨, dicen las Pleyades. ¨Mientras Santa Marta ofrece las playas y áreas naturales más bellas, la belleza de Cartagena consiste en la prestigiosa antigua ciudad .clolonial, que te hace sentir como si entraras a un cuento de hadas, y el paradisíaco archipiélago de las Islas del Rosario.

¨Como una parte importante de nustro trabajo con whl.travel, también siempre intentamos contribuir al mantenimiento y la protección del medioambiente y de la cultura de la gente local.¨

Las Pleyades ciertamente tienen sus prioridades respecto a la responsabilidad social y hacen todo lo posible para apoyar a la comunidad local. En vez de apartar la mirada de los problemas que testigan, utilizan el turismo y su negocio como un medio para el cambio. Un proyecto que quieren realizar en el futuro trata de las necesidades de los niños callejeros de Santa Marta y pueden leer más sobre esta iniciativa en Facebook.

La empresa también hace lo posible para emplear a gente local como taxistas, choferes de autubuses, personal de liempieza y cocineros, y se intenta darles oportunidades a los guías turísticos, sobre todo a los jóvenes y a los menos adinerados. ¨Estamos orgullosos del lanzamiento del nuevo portal porque esto va en conjunto con la creación de nuevas oportunidades de trabajo reales para mucha gente local en Cartagena¨, dicen las Pleyades. ¨Hay definitivamente una falta de empleo en las ciudades de la costa colombiana, donde más del 50% de la gente se dedican a trabajos informales, como vender minutos para llamadas locales o nacionales, o el famoso rebusque.

Cartagena es el segundo destino colombiano en la red de whl.travel, siguiendo al portal de Santa Marta.

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EM PORTUGUÊS / IN PORTUGUESE:

O porto caribenho de Cartagena, Colômbia, faz jus a sua reputação de uma cidade romântica com uma rica história entrelaçada com uma cultura vivaz, cheia de música, culinária saborosa e pessoas bem-humoradas. A sua localização no extremo norte da Colômbia oferece vistas imbatíveis para o mar e um clima agradável durante todo o ano, tornando-se um perfeito para fugir do inverno.

The happening place to be for some holidaymakers, Bocagrande is the most exclusive zone of Cartagena, with modern buildings, luxury hotels and all the tourist infrastructure you'd expect

Com uma longa história como um destino turístico muito frequentado, Cartagena promete uma infra-estrutura turística muito bem desenvolvida. A cidade está totalmente abarrotada com coisas interessantes para fazer, de visitar o centro histórico da cidade murada, a relaxar em umas das muitas praias de areia.

Uma gama completa de opções hospedagens em Cartagena estão disponíveis para ajudar a fazer os visitantes se sintirem em casa, de albergues para mochileiros a hotéis arranha-céus que enchem o horizonte. Há certamente opções para cada gosto e orçamento.

Os viajantes que procuram uma atmosfera jovem e vibrante vai combinar perfeitamente com o Hotel North Star Backpackers, enquanto aqueles com anseio de voltar para a natureza estarão completamente satisfeito no Hotel Sport Baru, que oferece acomodações equipadas e eco-friendly completamente fora da cidade em si.

Reservas diretas de passeios e hotéis em Cartagena é agora possível através www.cartagena-hotel.travel, administrado por Las Pleyades, a conexão local da whl.travel. Firmemente estabelecida na Colômbia, Las Pleyades tem profundo conhecimento da cidade e apenas recomendam que eles consideram o melhor dos melhores.

“Gostamos de mostrar os viajantes, os tesouros do Caribe colombiano e realmente tentar oferecer produtos para atender todos os gostos”, comentou Fabíola, falando pela equipe de Las Pleyades. “Nosso trabalho com a whl.travel é positivo e a experiência do lançamento de um portal de viagens em Santa Marta encorajou-nos a expandir nosso trabalho em Cartagena das Indias. Enquanto Santa Marta oferece as mais belas áreas naturais e praias, a beleza de Cartagena é a cidade colonial de prestígio antigo, o que faz você se sentir como se estivesse em um conto de fadas, e o arquipélago paradisíaco das Ilhas Rosário. Como uma parte importante do nosso trabalho com a whl.travel, também estamos sempre tentando contribuir para a manutenção e proteção do meio ambiente ea cultura do povo local. ”

Las Pleyades, certamente tem as suas prioridades quando se trata de responsabilidade social, e procura de todas as formas possíveis ajudar a comunidade local. Em vez de fazer vista grossa para os problemas que eles vêem, eles usam o turismo e os seus negócios como um meio para a mudança. Um projeto pelo qual a equipe é apaixonada é uma iniciativa para atender as necessidades de muitas crianças que vivem na rua em Santa Marta. Leia mais (em espanhol) no Facebook.

A empresa também faz o seu melhor para empregar moradores locais como taxistas, motoristas de ônibus, pessoal da limpeza, e pessoal de alojamento local, e tem uma política de treinamento de moradores de bairros pobres para guias turísticos. “Nós nos sentimos orgulhosos de ter lançado este novo portal, porque é ligado a uma rede de possibilidades reais de trabalho para muitos moradores de Cartagena”, continuou Fabiola. “Há certamente falta de emprego nas cidades costeiras, onde mais de 50% das pessoas ganha o próprio sustento através do trabalho informal, como a venda de minutos para fazer chamadas telefónicas locais e nacionais.”

Cartagena é o segundo destino da Colômbia na rede whl.travel, precedido pelo portal de Santa Marta.

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EN FRANÇAIS / IN FRENCH:

Le port des Caraïbes de Cartagena, en Colombie, est à la hauteur de sa réputation romantique d’une ville avec une histoire riche et enrichie par une culture dynamique et pleine de musique, bonne cuisine et les gens joyeux. Sa situation à l’extrémité nord de la Colombie permet des vues sur la mer sans pareil et un climat agréable tout au long de l’année, ce qui en fait un endroit parfait pour échapper à l’hiver.

The San Felipe Castle, situated between the historic centre and the Caribbean Sea, is the symbol of the colonial past and, nowadays, one of the most attractive tourist points of Cartagena de Indias

Avec sa longue histoire dans le tourisme international, la ville de Cartagena promet une infrastructure touristique très développée, que ce soit pour des vacances ou des voyages d’affaires. La ville est pleine d’opportunités pour des activités intéressantes, d’une visite au centre historique centre de la ville fortifiée, à se détendre dans l’une des nombreuses plages de sable de la région.

Cartagena offre une large gamme d’hébergements pour que les visiteurs se sentent chez eux, des hôtel-boutique dans le centre historique, aux auberges de jeunesse et les hôtel -ressorts modernes à Bocagrande et les îles. Il y a un parfait logement pour tous les goûts et budgets. Les voyageurs qui cherchent une atmosphère des gens jeunes et des fêtes, vont trouver ça à l’Auberge North Star Backpackers, tandis que ceux qui veulent profiter de la nature devraient choisir le Baru Sport Hôtel, qui propose des services d’hébergement intégral et en harmonie avec l’environnement.

Réservations directes de tours et hôtels à Cartagena sont maintenant possible grâce à www.cartagena-hotel.travel, géré par Las Pleyades, la connexion locale de whl.travel. Solidement établis en Colombie, Las Pleyades connaissent toute la ville et ils ne recommandent que le meilleur des meilleurs.

“Nous aimons montrer aux visiteurs les trésors de la caraïbe colombienne et nous vraiment essayons de proposer des produits pour couvrir tous les goûts. Notre travail avec whl.travel et l’expérience positive avec notre portail de Santa Marta, nous a motivés à dilater notre travail à Cartagena de Indias,” disent Las Pleyades. “Bien que Santa Marta offre les plus belles plages et régions naturelles, la beauté de Cartagena est une belle ville coloniale, qui vous fait sentir comme si vous alliez à un conte de fées, et les îles paradisiaques des Islas del Rosario. Comme une partie importante de notre travail avec whl.travel, nous essayons toujours d’aider à maintenir et à protéger l’environnement et la culture des populations locales.”

Las Pleyades ont certainement leurs priorités sur la responsabilité sociale et de faire tout leur possible pour soutenir la communauté locale. Au lieu d’ignorer les problèmes de la ville et ses gens, ils essaient d’utiliser le tourisme et leur entreprise comme un moyen de changement. Un projet conte sur les besoins des enfants des rues de Santa Marta. Vous pouvez savoir plus (en espagnol) sur cette initiative en Facebook.

La firme aussi fait des efforts pour employer des personnes locales comme chauffeurs de taxi, conducteurs de bus, cuisiniers et femmes de ménage, et elle essaie de donner du bon travail aux guides touristiques, en particulier les jeunes et les moins riches. “Nous sommes fiers de lancer le nouveau site parce que cela va de pair avec la création de nouvelles possibilités d’emploi réelles pour de nombreuses populations locales à Cartagena”, disent las Pleyades. “Il y a certainement un manque d’emplois dans les villes de la côte colombienne, où plus de 50% des personnes sont engagées dans des emplois informels, comme la vente de minutes pour les coups de téléphone locaux ou nationaux, ou le travail au noir célèbre.”

Cartagena est la deuxième destination de la Colombie dans le réseau de whl.travel, après le site de Santa Marta.

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AUF DEUTSCH / IN GERMAN:

Der karibische Hafen Cartagenas, Kolumbien, macht seinem romantischen Ruf einer Stadt mit einer reichen Geschichte und einer lebendigen Kultur voller Musik, ausgezeichneter Gastronomie und fröhlicher Leute, alle Ehre. Seine Lage im extremen Norden Kolumbiens ermöglicht unschlagbare Sichten auf das Meer und ein angenehmes Klima das ganze Jahr durch, was es zu einem attraktiven Winterfluchtort für jedermann macht.

Mit einer langen und erfolgreichen Geschichte als internationale Touristendestination, verspricht Cartagena eine fortschrittliche Infrastruktur für Ferien- und Geschäftstourismus. Die Stadt ist voller Möglichkeiten für interessante Freizeitaktivitäten, von einem Ausflug in das historische ummauerte Stadtzentrum centre, zum Entspannen an einem der zahlreichen Sandstrände inner- und ausserhalb der Stadt.

Cartagena bietet eine Vielzahl an Unterkunftsmöglichkeiten, damit sich die Besucher wie Zuhause fühlen können. Von auserlesenen Boutique Hotels im historischen Zentrum, zu internationalen Jugendherbergen und Luxus Ressorts im modernen Viertel der Stadt und den Inseln. Es gibt etwas für jeden Geschmack und jedes Budget.

Reisende, welche nach einer Übernachtungsmöglichkeit mit Partystimmung und jungen Leuten suchen, finden dies im North Star Backpackers Hostel, während Naturliebhaber im gut ausgerüsteten und umweltfreundlichen Hotel Sport Baru auf den Rosario Inseln, komplett zufrieden gestellt werden.

Direkte Buchungen von Touren und Hotels in Cartagena sind nun möglich mit www.cartagena-hotel.travel, geführt durch Las Pleyades, whl.travels lokale Verbindung in Cartagena. Mit ständigem Sitz in Kolumbien, kennen Las Pleyades die Stadt wie ihre Westentasche und sie empfehlen Ihnen nur das Beste vom Besten.

“Wir lieben es, den Reisenden die Schätze der kolumbianischen Karibik zu zeigen und wir versuchen, Produkte für jeden Geschmack anzubieten”, betonen Las Pleyades. “Unsere Zusammenarbeit mit whl.travel und die positive Erfahrung mit unserem ersten Internetportal für Santa Marta, haben uns zur Ausdehnung unserer Arbeit nach Cartagena de Indias bewogen. Während man in Santa Marta die schönsten Naturschutzgebiete und Strände findet, zeichnet sich Cartagena durch seine prächtige koloniale Altstadt aus, welche dich in ein Märchen entführt, und die paradiesische Inselgruppe der Rosario Inseln. Als ein wichtiger Teil unsere Arbeit mit whl.travel, versuchen wir auch immer, zum Schutz und der Aufrechterhaltung der Umwelt und der Kultur der einheimischen Bevölkerung beizutragen.”

Las Pleyades setzen Prioritäten, wenn es um soziale Verantwortung geht und sie unterstützen die lokale Gemeinschaft wenn immer dies möglich ist. Anstatt den Kopf von den Problemen der Stadt wegzudrehen, verwenden sie den Tourismus und ihr Geschäft als Mittel für den Wandel. Eines ihrer Projekte handelt von den Strassenkindern Santa Martas. Sie können gern mehr (auf Spanisch) darüber auf Facebook erfahren.

Die Firma tut auch ihr Möglichstes, um lokalen Leuten Arbeitsmöglichkeiten als Taxifahrer, Busfahrer, Koch- und Servicepersonal und Putzfrauen zu geben, und sie stellen hauptsächlich junge Touristenführer und solche aus einfachen Verhältnissen an. “Wir sind stolz auf unser neues Portal, weil es mir der Schaffung von neuen Arbeitsplätzen für lokale Leute in Cartagena einhergeht. An der kolumbianischen Küste herrscht definitiv ein Mangel an Arbeitsmöglichkeiten vor, wo mehr als 50% der Leute einer informellen Arbeit, wie dem Verkaufen von Minuten für lokale und nationale Telefonanrufe, nachgehen.”

Cartagena ist die zweite kolumbianische Destination im whl.travel Netzwerk, dem Portal für Santa Marta folgend.

Buritaca is located at the base of the northern foothills of Colombia’s Sierra Nevada, 50 minutes from Santa Marta. In recent years it has become a popular tourist destination; travellers of all kinds – both domestic and foreign – have fallen in love with the crystal-clear waters of its estuary mouth, the tongue of perfect beach and the magical surrounding landscape.

Buritaca also has a rich history dominated by its strategic location used for centuries by local indigenous groups. It was the centre of the ancient Tairona civilisation, which thrived along the edges of the Buritaca, Don Diego and Guachaca rivers. As their culture was as well developed as their sense of rightful belonging, the Buritaca tribe was amongst those who fiercely resisted Spanish conquest int eh 16th and 17th centuries.

The ruins of the ancient Tairona settlement, rediscovered in only 1976, were first named Buritaca-200. Today, although the indigenous people refer to the site as Teyuna, tourists call it the Ciudad Perdida or Lost City.

Located between 900 and 1200 metres above sea level in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta on the right side of the Buritaca River, the Lost City is a complicated system of interconnected constructions, stone-paved pathways, stairs and walls set on a series of terraces once used as the foundations for ceremonial centres, houses and food stores. Structures have been discovered across an area of approximately 35 hectares, a site now managed by the Colombian Institute of Anthropology as an Archaeological National Park. As such, it has become one of the most important tourist attractions of Santa Marta and, in 2007, the Lost City (or Teyuna) was voted fifth on the list of the Seven Wonders of Colombia.

Buritaca is still today also an important place for the Koguis tribe, descendants of the original Tairona people who try to maintain their traditional culture in spite of the modernisation of Santa Marta. As Buritaca is the main point of access to the Sierra Nevada for them, it is one of the strategic cultural points where they perform their rituals in honour of Mother Nature.

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Visit the whl.travel Flickr photostream for a set of more pictures of Sant Marta.

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Santa Marta, known for its beautiful beaches, thrilling festivals, great weather, good value and laid back vibe, is one of Colombia’s most popular resort towns, attracting tourist from around the world throughout the year.

Santa Marta has a colourful mix of mutually respectful ethnic groups with different socio-cultural traditions. The Kogui children pictured above are the direct descendants of the ancient Tayronas and they try to maintain their traditional culture in villages that you may visit for a shared learning experience.

Located in the north of the country on a quiet Caribbean bay with the gorgeous Sierra Nevada Mountains as a backdrop, this port centre is the oldest ‘modern’ city in Colombia. However, not far away in the lush jungles of the Sierra Nevada is the ancient Ciudad Perdida, or Lost City, spiritual home of Colombia’s Tayrona Indians.

With the launch of www.santamarta-hotels-tours.travel, whl.travel connects travellers to Oliver Blanco, Fabiola and the team from Las Pleyades, your local connection in this pearl of the Colombian Caribbean. The team offers a wide-range of accommodation, including local bungalows and fincas on the long sandy beaches. They can also assist travellers in arranging trips to the famous Santa Marta Aquarium or eco-adventures to the Lost City. As local experts, they’re also superb sources of tips about the best places to eat in Santa Marta or advice on things to see and do in and around the city, like the famous Museum of Gold, with exhibits from the Tayrona civilization.

Says Oliver, on behalf of the team: “We are thrilled to be able to offer travelers from all over the world the best of this unique natural paradise responsibly, from the promotion of existing tourism opportunities to supporting and developing new options and outlets, but always protecting and caring for the people and the natural treasures that make Santa Marta one of the most special places in the world.”

Santa Marta is the first Colombian travel portal in the whl.travel network, but stay tuned for more to come.

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EN ESPAÑOL / IN SPANISH:

Santa Marta es conocida por sus playas lindas, sus festivales emocionantes, su buen tiempo, buenos valores y su ambiente relajado, es uno de los lugares de descanso más populares de Colombia, que atrae a turistas de todo el mundo durante todo el año.

Tayrona Park is a huge natural paradise with exuberant vegetation, endless white-sand beaches and an old indigenous settlement

Localizada no norte do país, em uma baía calma do Caribe, com a maravilhosa Serra Nevada ao fundo; este centro porteño es la ciudad ‘moderna’ más antigua de Colombia. Y no muy lejos de allá, en la selva exuberante de la Sierra Nevada, está la Ciudad Perdida, que es el hogar espiritual de los antiguos indígenas de Colombia, los Tayronas.

Con el lanzamiento de www.santamarta-hotels-tours.travel, whl.travel conecta a los viajeros con Oliver Blanco, Fabiola y el equipo de Las Pleyades, tu conexión local en esta perla del Caribe colombiano. El equipo ofrece una amplia gama de alojamiento, incluyendo cabañas y fincas locales ubicadas en las largas playas de arena. Ellos también pueden asistir a los viajeros para organizar excursión al famoso Aquario de Santa Marta o eco-aventuras a la Ciudad Perdida. Como expertos locales, también son una buenísima fuente de recomendaciones sobre los mejores lugares para comer en Santa Marta o consejos para cosas que ver y hacer dentro y alrededor de la ciudad, como el famoso Museo de Oro con exposiciones de la civilización Tayrona.

Dice Oliver en el nombre del equipo: “Nos alegramos muchísimo de ser capaces de ofrecer a los viajeros de todo el mundo lo mejor de este paraíso natural único de una manera responsable; desde la promoción de las oportunidades turísticas existentes, así como el apoyar y desarrollar nuevas opciones de mercados, pero siempre protegiendo y cuidando a las personas, y los recursos naturales, que hacen de Santa Marta uno de los sitios más especiales en el mundo.”

Santa Marta es el primer portal de viaje colombiano en la red de whl.travel, pero sigan preparados para más!

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EM PORTUGUÊS / IN PORTUGUESE

Santa Marta é conhecida por suas belas praias, festas emocionantes, ótimo clima, bons preços e ambiente descontraído. É uma das cidades turísticas mais populares da Colômbia, atraindo turistas de todo o mundo durante o ano inteiro.

The mystical Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), hidden in the jungles of the Sierra Nevada, was home of the ancient Tayrona tribe and has become one of Santa Marta's main tourist attractions

Localizada no norte do país, em uma baía calma do Caribe, com um cenário deslumbrante das montanhas da Serra Nevada ao fundo, este centro é o mais antigo da cidade ‘moderna’, na Colômbia. No entanto, não muito longe nas selvas exuberantes da Serra Nevada está a antiga Cidade Perdida, ou Lost City, o lar espiritual dos índios colômbianos, os Tayrona.

Com o lançamento do www.santamarta-hotels-tours.travel a whl.travel conecta viajantes a Oliver Blanco e Fabiola Duerigue da equipe de Las Pleyades, a sua conexão local a esta pérola do Caribe colombiano. A equipe oferece uma ampla variedade de acomodações, incluindo bangalôs e pousadas nas longas praias de areia branca. Eles também podem auxiliar os viajantes em organizar viagens para o famoso Aquário de Santa Marta ou eco-aventuras para a Cidade Perdida. Como peritos locais, eles são também fontes excelentes de dicas sobre os melhores lugares para comer em Santa Marta ou conselhos sobre coisas para se ver e fazer em torno da cidade, como o famoso Museu do Ouro, com exposições da civilização Tayrona.

Diz Oliver, em nome da equipe: “Estamos entusiasmados por poder oferecer aos viajantes de todo o mundo o melhor deste paraíso natural de forma responsável, a partir da promoção de oportunidades de turismo existentes para apoio e desenvolvimento de novas opções e pontos de venda, mas sempre protegendo e cuidando do povo e os tesouros naturais que fazem de Santa Marta um dos lugares mais especiais do mundo.”

Santa Marta é a primeira cidade colombiana a fazer parte da rede whl.travel, mas fique atento pois outras virão.