National Geographic Traveler will release a Colombia travel guide in September in hopes of luring even more visitors to the Andean nation.
The book’s author and acclaimed travel writer, Christopher Baker, has made several trips to Colombia since 2010, visiting Bogota, Medellin, the coffee region in western Colombia and popular vacation spot, Cartagena.
“We believe it’s time Colombia became an international tourist destination. Colombia has an ideal profile for National Geographic due to its amazing nature and cultural aspects,” said Baker. “Colombia is one of the richest countries in terms of tourist attractions, which meet everyone’s needs and interests. From bird-watching to active adventures and culinary challenges, the country is prepared to receive both groups and independent travelers,” he added.
The guide was unveiled Friday at a New York seminar to promote tourism in Colombia, with National Geographic planning to release the book at its stores, specialized travel shops and online in September 2012. The book will be 320 pages and feature 120 color photos and 15 maps.
The unveiling of the guide is part of Proexport’s Matchmaking Forum which brings together 150 U.S. wholesalers, tour operators, airlines and promotion agencies to highlight the benefits of travel to Colombia. Proexport is a Colombian government agency dedicated to promoting tourism and foreign investment in the country.
A total of 317,962 travelers visited Colombia in 2011, according to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism. Between January and April 2012, foreign tourism increased by 5.3% compared to the same period last year.
