The island of San Andrés in Colombia is among the most beloved in the Caribbean

Near the coast of Nicaragua, but belonging to Colombia, San Andrés is an alternative to the most famous islands in the Caribbean.

Small Colombian island off the coast of Nicaragua, San Andres It is a true gem of the Caribbean.

Famous for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and all-inclusive resorts, it is part of an archipelago that also includes Providence and Santa Catalina and it is a mix of English, Latin American and Creole influences. But above all it is the perfect place to snorkel.

Compared to the more famous islands in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, St. Andrew is still off the beaten tourist track. And it is therefore the perfect time to visit it. Located 750 kilometers from the coasts of Colombia and 150 from those of Nicaragua, It is separated from the (smaller) island of Providencia by three and a half hours of sailing.

Its eclectic mix of cultures is due to its trouble story: Its territory was dominated by Spain, Great Britain, Africa and Holland, in addition to being long disputed between Colombia and Nicaragua. That's why here we hear that many languages ​​are spoken. And that past of changes is felt in its architecture, in its cuisine.

It is an island rich in culture, San Andrés. Reggaeton music fills the air and mixes with the notes of salsa, calypso and vallenato. The inhabitants love to dance, have fun, and smile at life. And they love to richly decorate theirs. case, often painted in bright colors that refer to the luminosity and joy of the place.

There are many festivals that take place during the year, starting from Crab Festival which – on January 1 – will be a triumph of crab-based specialties and live music. However, towards mid-September, the Green Moon Festival It celebrates local cuisine and is full of events dedicated to the literature, history, music and dances of San Andrés. From San Andrés you can explore the other two islands of the archipelago, Providence and Santa Catalina. The first, halfway between Costa Rica and Jamaica, is the largest: Santa Catalina It is one of its "satellite" islands, e.g. It can be reached via a 100 meter long pedestrian bridge..

Why is Saint Andrew increasingly loved? Because it is a truly paradisiacal place, not very crowded, full of Extraordinary places to practice snorkeling and diving.. And with tropical forests to walk admiring a unique ecosystem. Even if the main activity is precisely thecoral reef exploration: visibility here is up to 30 meters, there is an extraordinary population of manta rays and corals, and The sea is so splendid that, according to locals, it is made up of seven colors.