Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia
Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - The Colombian Comeback - Bogotá Beckons with Increased Flight Options
After years of instability, Colombia is emerging as one of South America's hottest destinations. The diverse landscapes, rich culture and mouthwatering cuisine have always made it an alluring spot. But ongoing progress and development have transformed cities like Bogotá into must-see destinations. Fortunately, the country's tourism boom coincides with an influx of new flight options from major US carriers.
American Airlines relaunched its Dallas to Bogotá route in late 2021 after a years-long hiatus. While onboard reviews were mixed, many frequent flyers welcomed restored nonstop access to Colombia. The flight operates daily aboard a Boeing 787 Dreamliner with lie-flat business class seats. Mileage junkies can earn 11,842 AAdvantage miles per roundtrip.
In December 2022, Delta launched new nonstops between Atlanta and Bogotá. Operating 3x weekly, this route provides a convenient gateway for travelers across the Southeast. Delta One business class features private suites with closing doors, while Main Cabin offers seatback entertainment. SkyMiles members earn a solid 9,030 miles per roundtrip.
These latest additions join existing routes from other major hubs like Miami, Houston, New York and Los Angeles. After pausing service during the pandemic, most US airlines have resumed Colombia flights to meet surging demand. Availability is ample, with fierce competition keeping fares in check.
While Bogotá garners much attention, don't overlook other gateways like Cartagena, Medellín and Cali. Spirit Airlines connects many of these cities to its south Florida focus cities with bargain basement fares. JetBlue also flies to Cartagena from both New York and Boston.
Most visitors need a tourist visa, which runs about $50-60 depending on where you apply. US passport holders get 180 days on arrival. Safety concerns have eased considerably, though petty crime remains an issue in major cities. Use common sense, avoid flashing valuables and stick to busy areas after dark.
What else is in this post?
- Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - The Colombian Comeback - Bogotá Beckons with Increased Flight Options
- Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - Navigating the Souks and Sands - Tips for Your First Moroccan Excursion
- Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - Uncharted Philippines - Off-the-Beaten-Path Islands Now Within Reach
- Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - Cultural Kaleidoscope - Embracing Colombia's Rich Heritage and Diversity
- Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - A Taste of Authenticity - Culinary Delights Await in Morocco's Bustling Markets
- Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - The Philippines' Underwater Paradise - Diving Directly into the Heart of the Coral Triangle
- Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - From Andes to Amazon - Colombia's Natural Wonders Just a Nonstop Flight Away
Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - Navigating the Souks and Sands - Tips for Your First Moroccan Excursion
Morocco conjures images of snake charmers, colorful souks and endless sand dunes. For many, it represents an exotic realm far removed from daily life. Yet Morocco lies just a short flight from Europe, with Marrakech a popular long weekend escape. Direct flights from North America are also abundant. Still, first-timers can feel overwhelmed navigating this distinctive North African kingdom. Follow these tips to make the most of your maiden Moroccan voyage.
Wandering the labyrinthine bazaars offers an authentic local experience. Each souk specializes in certain goods, so scout them out before venturing forth. In Marrakech, hone in on Souk Semmarine for brightly dyed leather goods. Seek out Souk Haddadine for ornate metal lanterns that make great souvenirs. Don't shy away from bargaining - it's expected. Just smile, greet the shopkeeper politely and offer about half the quoted price. Meeting somewhere in the middle is customary. Have small denomination dirham on hand, as change is rarely available.
Beyond the cities, Morocco's desert landscapes captivate. Many make a beeline to the Sahara, where Erg Chebbi's iconic dunes rise to 650 feet. Camel treks at sunrise or an overnight stay offer once-in-a-lifetime memories. Erg Chegaga near the Algeria border provides remote tranquility. Day trips from Marrakech reach Ouarzazate's movie set landscapes. Wherever you go, a 4x4 vehicle provides confidence when navigating off-road routes.
Travelers seeking coastline respites can unwind in laid back Essaouira on the Atlantic. Its windswept beaches, Portuguese ramparts and thriving art scene offer an alluring blend. The port city of El Jadida south of Casablanca combines coastal scenery with Old World Portuguese charm. For indulgence and people watching, the Monte Carlo style beach scene of Tangier beckons.
Don't let language barriers concern you - English is widely spoken in major tourist centers. Still, learning a few Arabic or French phrases shows respect. Greetings of “as-salam alaikum” (peace be with you) and “labas?” (how are you) go over well. Beyond large cities, dress modestly in keeping with conservative norms. Having shoulders and knees covered helps avoid offense.
Culinary adventures await at every turn. Be sure to try signature dishes like couscous, tangine stews and the pastry sensation pastilla. Full of fresh veggies and exotic spices, the local fare provides pure sensory delight. Seek out food tours or cooking classes for an inside look at traditional Moroccan cuisine.
With improved infrastructure, getting around is fairly smooth in Morocco. Between modern airports and an expanding rail network, transportation logistics improve annually. Long distance buses shuttle travelers between cities very affordably. Within urban areas, petit taxis provide cheap rides, just be sure to negotiate the fare first.
Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - Uncharted Philippines - Off-the-Beaten-Path Islands Now Within Reach
The Philippines comprises over 7,000 islands, yet most visitors flock to just a handful of hotspots. Perennial favorites like Boracay, Palawan and Cebu certainly dazzle, but venturing off the beaten path uncovers hidden gems few explore. Fortunately, expanded flight access now connects major US gateways directly to overlooked islands ripe for discovery.
Panglao in Bohol flies under the radar, yet this idyllic island charms with powder-soft beaches, virgin reefs and exquisite dive sites. Nonstop flights on Philippine Airlines from Los Angeles and San Francisco open the doors to this untapped paradise. The new routes shave considerable transit time, empowering travelers to maximize precious vacation time on Panglao's pristine shores.
Siargao Island is renowned among surfers for its world-class waves, yet remains largely undeveloped. Direct flights from Manila whisk travelers to this tropical heartland in under an hour. Bed down in coconut wood cottages steps from the surf. Beyond its legendary breaks, Siargao captivates with enchanting lagoons, lush mangroves and deserted beaches. The island exudes laid-back vibes perfect for disconnecting from daily stresses.
Off Mindanao's coast, Camiguin Island dazzles with otherworldly topography. This volcanic wonderland harbors bubbling hot springs, mystical waterfalls and a walk-in volcano crater. New barge links from Cebu provide easy access to Camiguin's myriad treasures. With limited development, the island retains an untainted charm rarely found elsewhere.
In the midst of the Sulu Sea, Siquijor conjures images of witchcraft and mystique. But beliefs in sorcery mostly stem from colorful legends, not reality. Direct flights from Manila and Cebu deliver travelers swiftly to this beguiling island. Beyond supernatural intrigue, Siquijor entices with coral gardens, marine sanctuaries and cascading waterfalls. The relatively few visitors ensure an authentic escape.
Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - Cultural Kaleidoscope - Embracing Colombia's Rich Heritage and Diversity
Far beyond its troubled past, Colombia enthralls with a cultural kaleidoscope thriving amidst incredible natural beauty. The diverse heritage woven into its fabric reveals itself in exuberant festivals, time-honored traditions and lovingly preserved colonial architecture.
Visitors need not look far to experience Colombia's cultural richness firsthand. The country boasts eleven UNESCO World Heritage sites showcasing pre-Columbian ruins, historic city centers and distinctive ecosystems. Cartagena's walled Old City transports you to the 17th century with winding cobblestone streets, picturesque balconies and magnificent Spanish colonial structures. The ancient ruins of San Agustín shelter mysterious stone monoliths and tombs left behind by a mysterious pre-Incan civilization.
Colombia's cultural diversity is reflected in its people. The population comprises an intriguing mix of European, African, Middle Eastern and indigenous influences. Regional costumes displayed at festivals showcase this blend. During Carnival Barranquilla, revelers don bright marimondas and colorful silletas in boisterous processions. At the Flowers Festival in Medellín, traditional silleteros carry massive floral arrangements down the streets.
Music and dance play integral roles in cultural traditions. Salsa originated right in Cali, where enthusiasts flock for the World Salsa Festival each September. The hypnotic beats of cumbia, currambera, bambuco and other styles echo throughout the country. Football fever grips the nation, with festive crowds filling stadiums. Even small towns erupt in cheers during major tournaments.
Colombia's diverse landscape fosters distinct regional cultures. European ancestry dominates in Bogotá, while Afro-Colombian influences prevail along the Pacific coast. Indigenous cultures like the Arhuaco have maintained their language and customs in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This intriguing patchwork gives each destination its own flair.
The coastal city of Cartagena entices with pastel-hued colonial buildings, horse-drawn carriages and cobbled plazas. Medellín surprises with daring architecture, hip nightlife and buzzing cultural scenes. Cali keeps the salsa beat pumping day and night. And Colombia's mountain towns exude old world charm perfect for unwinding among spectacular vistas.
Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - A Taste of Authenticity - Culinary Delights Await in Morocco's Bustling Markets
Morocco's bustling souks offer a feast for all the senses. From pyramids of local produce to aromatic spice stalls, these lively markets provide an authentic taste of Moroccan cuisine and culture. For first time visitors, the array of exotic ingredients and prepared dishes can seem totally foreign. Have no fear - a culinary adventure awaits around every corner. Let your senses guide you to culinary discoveries you won't soon forget.
The central market, or souk, anchors every Moroccan town. This is where locals gather to purchase fresh meat, produce, spices and more. Strolling through the souk offers glimpses into everyday life. Watch as vendors hawk olives and dates, butchers cut meat to order and shoppers haggle for deals. Don't be shy - point, smile and sample to your heart's content.
Towering piles of produce signal what's in season. Seek out sun ripened tomatoes, juicy stone fruits and bundles of crunchy carrots. Vendors display mounds of nuts, dried fruits and roasted chickpeas perfect for snacking. Stop to try amlou, a creamy almond and argan oil dip, or central Morocco's renown goat cheese. For refreshment, sample freshly squeezed orange juice blended with mint.
The spice vendors perfume the entire souk with enticing aromas. Cumin, ginger, saffron, cinnamon - the options seem endless. Let your nose lead the way through stalls brimming with seasonings. Chat up merchants to learn aboutspice blends like ras el hanout. They'll eagerly guide you through the intoxicating scents and flavors.
As you wander, keep an eye out for food stalls churning out regional specialties. Tangia Marrakeshia, a slow cooked stew, simmers in clay pots for hours resulting in sublime tenderness. Try bessara, a smooth fava bean dip, for breakfast with fresh khobz bread. Grilled kefta and merguez sausages make hearty street snacks.
Of course, no trip to Morocco would be complete without trying tagines. These rich stews, named after the earthenware vessels in which they're cooked, highlight local flavors. They're ubiquitous in restaurants, but the souk offers opportunities to try home cooked variations. Look for food carts with a queue of locals to sample authentic, budget friendly tagines.
Beyond markets and medinas, arranged food tours provide curated culinary experiences. Guides shepherd you between landmarks and hole-in-the-wall eateries many tourists miss. You'll sample an impressive spread of Moroccan classics while learning about history, culture and cooking techniques. Tours often include hands-on components like bread baking, tea ceremonies or couscous workshops.
Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - The Philippines' Underwater Paradise - Diving Directly into the Heart of the Coral Triangle
Beneath the shimmering surface of the Philippine Sea lies an underwater wonderland that scuba enthusiasts consider paradise. Teeming with diverse marine life, the Philippines rests at the heart of the so-called Coral Triangle - the epicenter of the planet's coral and fish biodiversity. As one of the most biologically diverse marine regions on earth, the Coral Triangle offers a true embarrassment of riches for divers.
With over 36,000 kilometers of coastline and more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines provides seemingly endless bounty to explore. Jacques Cousteau once described the territory as "the center of the center of marine biodiversity.” And current data supports this, with the Philippines ranking among the top five countries globally in terms of marine species diversity.
What makes the region such a hotspot for aquatic life? Several factors converge to create an ideal habitat. Warm tropical waters foster coral growth, while complex seafloor topography like slopes, walls and caves support diverse ecosystems. Powerful ocean currents carry nutrients that sustain phytoplankton, the foundation of the marine food chain. As apex predators like tuna and sharks patrol the reefs, a complex web of life flourishes.
For divers, the diversity translates to daily wonder and discovery. At Apo Reef off Mindoro, graceful sea turtles glide by as schools of jacks and barracudas swirl overhead. At Monad Shoal near Malapascua Island, thresher sharks emerge at dawn allowing for rare close encounters. At Anilao off Luzon, critter diving reveals oddities like pygmy seahorses, blue-ringed octopus and even mimic octopus camouflaging as flounders. Simply put, there's always something exciting happening beneath the waves in the Coral Triangle.
Beyond sheer diversity, the Philippines' crystalline waters offer superb visibility - often exceeding 100 feet. Dive sites around regions like Palawan and Cebu provide accessibility right from shore, while liveaboard safaris unlock more remote realms. With balmy year-round climate, the Philippines truly offers a diver's notion of paradise.
Unveiling New Nonstop Adventures to Morocco, the Philippines, and Colombia - From Andes to Amazon - Colombia's Natural Wonders Just a Nonstop Flight Away
Spanning from the lofty Andes to steamy Amazon rainforest, Colombia nurtures incredible biodiversity. This natural wonderland entices adventurers with soaring mountain vistas, thundering waterfalls, exotic wildlife and awesome natural phenomena. Fortunately, new nonstop flight options make experiencing Colombia's natural riches more accessible than ever.
Avid trekkers have long flocked to Colombia's slice of the Andes, which unfurl through the country like a rumpled spine. Several snow-capped peaks exceed 18,000 feet, including the tallest coastal mountain range on earth. Crisscrossing these towering crags, the Andean condor rules the skies with a wingspan exceeding 10 feet. Descending from the mountains, whitewater rafting provides an adrenaline rush on turbulent rivers like the Rio Pastora.
Yet Colombia's natural diversity spans far beyond its famous mountains. Tatacoa Desert's arid moonscapes look seemingly airlifted from another planet. Presumed extinct until rediscovered in 1973, the Cauca poison frog's brilliant markings belie its toxic punch. Endemic to Colombia's Sierra Nevada, the bizarrely cute Andean bear clings to the world's northernmost stretch of páramo grasslands. Even the most seasoned safari veteran will encounter exotic species found nowhere else.
At Cano Cristales, nature reveals her vivid artistry in what's known as the river of five colors. Thanks to a unique interplay of aquatic plants, fungi and light, the water blossoms in hues of yellow, blue, green, black and shocking red between July and November. This dazzling spectacle has earned Cano Cristales fame as the most beautiful river on earth.
Venturing east, the vast Amazon rainforest blankets nearly 15% of Colombia's total landmass. Hallucinogenic ayahuasca vines embrace giant kapok trees along the jungle's dark waterways. Caiman, giant river otters and brilliantly plumed macaws flourish amidst the dense greenery. Local indigenous communities share ancestral wisdom passed down through generations.
Colombia's enviable biodiversity stems largely from its privileged position joining North and South America. This land bridge enabled flora and fauna from diverse ecosystems to intermingle and evolve over millennia into new endemic species. Today, Colombia counts over 1,800 species of birds, 456 species of mammals and 3,000 species of fish - more diversity than any other country its size.