Travel & Culture: Barranquilla

Del caribe aflora
Bella, encantadora
Con mar y rio
Una gran sociedad

Many tourist books will tell you to skip the industrial port city of Barranquilla. Overshadowed by nearby backpacker destinations such as Santa Marta and Cartagena, many visitors only pass it by. It lacks the nostalgic charm of Cartagena and accessibility of Santa Marta. It seemingly does not warrant a trip, except during its world famous carnival celebrations in February.

Yet many Colombians, specifically of the Caribbean region, judge it differently. Barranquilla is the largest city of el caribe, and it serves as a bustling place for Colombians to go shopping, partying and to work.

The sizable city has a confusing and chaotic bus service, and along with its lack of hostels and 'touristy' things to do, it makes for a non-backpacking zone. However, if you get the chance to visit with Barranquilla with a local you may not think it as such an underwhelming place.

Cartagena Salsa singer Joe Arroyo famously sung 'in Barranquilla I stay', praising its great society and amicable people. Nowadays more famous internationally perhaps for being the birthplace of superstars Sophie Vergara and Shakira, Arroyo's song remains a favorite of Barranquilleros, who are fiercely proud of their city.

Upmarket district El Prado has some swish eateries, however for budget travellers the street food is cheap, plentiful and delicious, and the vendors are often engaging and friendly. Skip the empanadas (the Colombian version is neither are as tasty or satisfying as empanadas found in other South American countries), in favour of Carimañolas. Found only in the Caribbean, Carimañolas are made from yuca flour instead of corn, and are stuffed with everything from chicken, potato and cheese (1500COP).
Still hungry? Try some Chuzos, which are meat and vegetable kebabs (2500COP).

The 'rumba' of Barranquilla is well known in the region, and you had better know some basic salsa to participate. Head over to dance bar La Troja in El Porvenir to see the city's nightlife in full swing.

Any spare few hours should be spent in the Museo del Caribe (11000COP) on Calle 36. The museum offers insight into the various indigenous cultures of the region, and has floors dedicated to accents, music, topography and history. It is fascinating learning about the huge variation of culture in the region. Staff are friendly and are enthusiastic to provide additional information.

Watching videos in Museo del Caribe

Barranquilla can be a fun destination, so long as you have a local friend to steer you clear of the dodgy areas and introduce you to the thriving soul of the Caribbean's biggest city.