Cali, Colombia: A Salsa-Filled Adventure – Exploring Safety, Culture, and Hidden Gems

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Luxury Arrival and First Impressions of Cali

Arrival in Cali and Luxurious Hotel Stay

Touching down in Cali felt like stepping into a different world. The heat hit us immediately after stepping off the bus; a stark contrast to the cooler Bogotá. Rule and I were thrilled to finally arrive at our hotel, a luxurious upgrade courtesy of some well-timed gift cards from my dad (thanks, Dad!). The lobby was stunning, a welcome sight after our journey. A pool beckoned, promising much-needed relaxation.

Our suite was even better than the photos suggested. We immediately ditched our travel clothes for something lighter, the oppressive heat demanding it. The hotel's reputation for safety was a relief, especially considering some of the concerns we'd heard about Cali. Having proper security gave us peace of mind, allowing us to truly unwind and enjoy our stay.

And the breakfast? Oh, the breakfast! We'd splurged on the included option, and it was more than worth it. The sheer variety of fresh fruit was astounding, and the made-to-order omelets were a delightful treat. It was a far cry from the more budget-friendly options we’d been accustomed to on our trip, but the indulgence was well-deserved after our travels. It was the perfect start to our Cali adventure.

Assessing Cali's Safety and the Allure of Salsa

Before our trip, I’d heard whispers – some would say rumors – about Cali’s safety. Frankly, some of the stories were concerning. So, arriving at our luxurious hotel, with its reassuring security presence, was a huge relief. It allowed us to relax and focus on enjoying ourselves, rather than constantly worrying.

However, even with the hotel's secure environment, venturing out into the city offered a different perspective. While our Uber rides took us through some areas that definitely felt rough around the edges, the neighborhoods surrounding our hotel and hostel were pleasant and felt safe enough. It's clear that like many cities, Cali has a spectrum of experiences.

But let's talk about salsa! Cali's reputation as the salsa capital of the world is well-deserved. The energy is palpable; the music seems to seep from every crack in the pavement. I signed up for a dance class – it turned out to be bachata, not salsa – but it was a blast! The instructors were friendly, and I somehow managed to not completely embarrass myself. I'll definitely be back for more dancing, and next time, I’ll ensure it's actual salsa!

Hotel Relaxation, Indulgent Breakfast, and Pre-Exploration Planning

After settling into our incredible suite, the oppressive Cali heat pushed us straight to the pool. It was glorious; a much-needed escape from the long journey. The water was cool, the atmosphere tranquil, and the sheer luxury of it all felt surreal after weeks of more budget-conscious travel. Later, a quick change into something lighter was essential before we even thought about venturing out.

Then came the breakfast. Let's just say it was far beyond anything we’d experienced on this trip so far. The sheer variety of fresh fruit was incredible; a vibrant rainbow of tropical delights. And the made-to-order omelets? A delightful indulgence. We were certainly glad we’d splurged on the included breakfast option – a small price to pay for such a fantastic start to each day.

Fueled by an amazing breakfast and poolside relaxation, we began planning our exploration of Cali. We ordered an Uber, opting for the convenience and perceived safety, especially given some of the things we’d heard about the city. The hotel's location, in a pleasant and safe-feeling neighborhood, gave us a good starting point. While our Uber rides showed a different side of Cali, we felt confident that we could navigate the city's various neighborhoods.

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Exploring Cali's City Center and Cultural Landmarks

Exploring Cali's City Center via Uber

Our hotel, while wonderfully luxurious, wasn't exactly in the heart of Cali's city center. To explore, we relied heavily on Uber – a smart choice, given the mixed safety reports we’d heard. The app was readily available, rides were affordable, and the perceived safety was a significant plus.

Our first Uber journey took us through a fascinating mix of neighborhoods. Some areas were undeniably rough around the edges, a stark contrast to the calm of our hotel's surroundings. This provided a real glimpse into the city's diversity – a spectrum of experiences that extended beyond the tourist areas. It’s a reminder that even seemingly safe cities have their less-than-glamorous sides.

Despite these contrasting views, I felt safe enough throughout our Uber rides. The drivers were professional, and the app provided a level of accountability. It’s always advisable to exercise caution, of course, but using Uber in Cali proved to be a practical and reasonably safe way to navigate the city.

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Budget-Friendly Accommodation, Salsa Lessons, and Butterfly Encounters

Second Accommodation and the Promise of Salsa Lessons

After two luxurious nights, we checked out of our fancy hotel and moved on to a more budget-friendly option: a hostel. While a significant downgrade from the opulence of our previous stay, this hostel still offered a private room – a surprisingly spacious one, complete with a fan, a desk, and, best of all, a huge balcony boasting a stunning view. It instantly felt more authentic, a chance to experience Cali beyond the tourist bubble.

But the real draw? Free daily salsa lessons, offered from Monday to Saturday. I’d chosen this hostel specifically for that reason, and I was eager to finally experience Cali's famous salsa scene. My first class turned out to be bachata, not salsa, a delightful surprise. It was a fun, energetic class; I didn't completely embarrass myself, and even managed to learn a few steps. The instructors were friendly and encouraging. Clearly, I had to come back for more!

The next day, I was ready for my salsa redemption. I hoped to finally experience the real thing. The lesson commenced, and this time it was actual salsa! Although my salsa moves are still a work in progress, it was an experience I savored, immersing myself in the infectious rhythm of Cali's dance culture. The energy was incredible, a true testament to Cali's reputation as the salsa capital of the world.

Exploring Cali's Butterfly Park

Our next adventure was a bit of a gamble. We’d found a butterfly park online, but the Uber dropped us off in a location that looked, frankly, dubious. Initially, we weren’t sure we’d found the right place; the entrance was tucked away, and the area felt less-than-touristy. But then, we saw the sign, and our doubts vanished. Relief washed over us as we received our wristbands and stepped inside.

The park itself was a welcome surprise. Hundreds of butterflies fluttered around us, their wings a kaleidoscope of colors. It was a magical experience. We spent a delightful hour walking through the various enclosures, getting up close and personal with these delicate creatures. One even landed on my head! I’ve never had a butterfly on my nose before, either. It was a moment of pure unexpected joy amidst the city’s more chaotic energy.

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Final Thoughts and Departure from Cali

Overall Cali Experience and Departure

Leaving Cali felt bittersweet. The city had exceeded my expectations in some ways, and fallen a little short in others. The luxurious hotel stay was a much-needed escape, a stark contrast to the more budget-friendly adventures that comprised most of our trip. The sheer abundance of fresh fruit at breakfast, along with those incredible made-to-order omelets, remains a highlight.

The hostel experience, while a downgrade in terms of luxury, offered a more authentic glimpse into Cali life. The spacious private room and the stunning balcony view were unexpected bonuses. And, of course, the free salsa lessons were the real draw – even if my first attempt was bachata, not salsa! The vibrant dance scene fully lived up to its reputation; the energy was infectious.

Regarding safety, my concerns proved to be partially justified. While our hotel and hostel neighborhoods were pleasant and felt secure, the Uber rides offered a glimpse into less glamorous areas. This wasn’t inherently negative; it gave us a more complete picture of Cali's diverse neighborhoods. However, it reinforced the importance of using ride-sharing apps and being mindful of surroundings. Cali is a city of contrasts, one that rewards exploration but demands a degree of caution.

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FAQ

Is Cali, Colombia safe for tourists?

Cali's safety is a spectrum. While the areas around some hotels and hostels feel safe, Uber rides may take you through rougher neighborhoods. It's advisable to use ride-sharing apps, be mindful of your surroundings, and choose accommodation in safe areas.

What is the best way to get around Cali?

Using ride-sharing apps like Uber is recommended due to perceived safety and affordability, especially for longer distances. It allows you to navigate the city while avoiding potentially unsafe areas.

What is Cali's salsa scene like?

Cali's reputation as the salsa capital of the world is well-deserved. The city offers numerous opportunities to take salsa classes (and even bachata!), with a vibrant and energetic dance culture.