# data[].attributes.body
When you think about Colombia, what do you imagine? Do you see worn down buildings? Or a deprived country full of threats and risks? Colombia has formed many misconceptions from people who do not wish to learn more. Not many know the true beauty of Colombia and the pride behind the flag. Colombia is well known for popular attractions, family and it’s culture.

# data[].attributes.body
Colombia had many fantastic places to visit with a variety of activities and sights to see. Some examples being Guatapé, Caño cristales and Cocora valley.

# data[].attributes.body
Guatapé is a small and colorful town surrounded by the El Penol de Guatapé lake. Guatapé is often called ‘ the most colorful town in Colombia’, with tiny streets and colorful homes. According to beyondmyborder.com, “ Each building in the neighborhood has It’s own unique flavor. Together Guatapé Colombia form a space rich in culture and charming appearance.”

# data[].attributes.body
Located in the national park Serranía de Macarena lies a river full of color called the Cano Cristales or nicknamed the ‘river of 5 colors’. The river is known to be one of the most unique and interesting places in Colombia. One of the many native legends is that the Cano Cristales river escaped from paradise to wander among the mountains and prairies that make up the region known as South America.

# data[].attributes.body
Positioned just 9 miles from salento reveals the Cocora Valley full of mountains, hills and rich with plantation. Cocora Valley is home for Colombia's national tree, the wax palm. The wax palm is one of the tallest palm species, the tree itself is 200 feet in the air. The valley is also known for having trails to ride horses or to take hikes. For many Colombians this tree means triumph and victory or to symbolize the capacity to persist and last. In addition to Colombia's Geographical side, another important quality is family.

# data[].attributes.body
To Colombians, family is very important.  Most family´s are very close, and they stay close. Rocio Patton states ¨when we were little we brought 2 cousins from my dads side to our home to study and give them support we grew up together like brothers and sisters, Olga and Gabriel stayed until they were 25, they both decided they wanted to pursue job opportunities in different states later on but we never pushed them to leave.¨ It’s also no secret families can be conservative and protective of their children, no matter how old they are. It's also not unusual to find grandparents, parents and their children living under the same roof. ¨I was very close with my mom that I left everything at home to come to the states when I was 28 years old. With on and off living together,” Rocio Patton shares. Traditionally, it's the job of the children to take care and be responsible for their parents until death and is looked down upon if not able to do so. The movie ‘Encanto’ from Disney portrays common Colombian family households and traditions. A strong family bond is one of the sturdy features of Colombian culture.

# data[].attributes.body
Colombians are known to be some of the most welcoming people to interact with. According to Colombia.travel ¨ Colombians will always greet you with a smile on their face, are more than willing to help out anyone who might need it, and will no doubt share with you that joy they carry within them, making you feel right at home in the most welcoming place on earth.” Furthermore “ When I used to visit my friends it felt like being in my own home and the moms always cooked in the kitchen and I automatically had a spot at the table for lunch or dinner. My grandma used to say " where 4 eat so can 5.” And many follow that saying.” Rocio Patton remembers. Social proximity is another Colombian characteristic that conveys their traditionals  “ Greetings in Colombia are WAY different from the United States. I never knew or experienced ‘personal space’ until moving here. My usual greetings were between friends or acquaintances, It started with a hug and kiss on a cheek. The only time you didn't greet like that was when it was a formal situation. Overall the Colombian culture is expressive through body language and proximity. And when I came to the states I felt a barrier for me and I didn’t realize it was rude to not respect ‘personal space’, “ Rocio Patton cites.

# data[].attributes.body
Over the years Colombia has slowly but surely started to break away from the reputation people have built for the country. The people of Colombia hold much pride in their culture, traditional family values and unique geographical locations. Many Colombians always strive to spread the knowledge of their home to others and the true meaning behind the country Colombia.