Articles written by Richard McColl
All 93 articles written by Richard McColl
Category: Colombia Travel
Colombia's Coffee Region is one filled with riches and adventure and Salento is no exception to the rule making it a key tourist destination. more...
Category: International Soccer
The World Cup finals in South Africa are exactly one year away and on recent performances it is Brazil and Chile who look to be the main contenders from Conmebol. more...
Rafael Escalona: Colombian Vallenato Musician: Colombia’s Folk Music Scene Loses its King
Category: Latin Music
Rafael Escalona, the personification of Colombia's Vallenato music, passed away on Wednesday May 13 2009 days short of his 82nd birthday following a period of illness. more...
Category: International Soccer
The outcome of the next games will determine which nations go to South Africa 2010 with Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina leading and then an open race for 4th and 5th. more...
Zona C – La Candelaria, Bogota: Cultural Attractions and Gastronomy in Bogota
Category: Colombia Travel
In a rebranding effort to pull Bogota's colonial centre in line with other chic sectors of the Colombian capital, La Candelaria is renamed the Zona C. more...
First Phase of the Copa Libertadores 2009: South America’s Champions League Kicks off on January 27
Category: International Soccer
The Copa Libertadores, South America's version of the Champions League runs from January 27 until July 8 2009, here are the teams and games for the first phase. more...
Bullfights in Bogota - Season 2009: Colombia’s Capital City Begins its Bullfighting Season
Category: Colombia Travel
Colombia's bullfighting season runs from mid January to the end of February every year, read on to learn about a Colombian institution at the Plaza de Toros Santamaria. more...
Bogota - Getting Around Colombia's Capital City: A Brief Guide to Public Transport in Bogota
Category: Colombia Travel
South America's "Athens" may seem intimidating to the tourist and visitor, but in effect the public transport options are very straightforward and economical. more...
Operation Jaque - National Geographic: In July 2008 Ingrid Betancourt was Liberated From the FARC
Category: Documentary Films (general)
Released in October 2008 the National Geographic Channel's offering piecing together the incredible and almost unbelievable military operation to free Ingrid Betancourt more...
Category: Colombia Travel
From November 13-17 2008 the Chocó coast on Colombia's Pacific seaboard will host its first ever surfing tournament. more...
Category: International Soccer
In this long road to the football World Cup in South Africa 2010, October's South American qualifying games have thrown some intriguing ties into the mix. more...
Category: International Soccer
The rivalries reignite as South American Nations go head to head for the coveted places in South Africa 2010. Paraguay pull clear as traditional powerhouses stumble. more...
Category: Premier/Championship Leagues
Latin America, recognised for being an unquenchable and bottomless talent pool of footballing masters, continues to produce players capable of making it in the EPL. more...
Liga of Ecuador Take the 2008 Copa Libertadores: History is Made as Fluminense Go Out on Penalties
Category: International Soccer
History is made as the outfit from Quito trump the favoured opponents, Fluminense, after extra time in a penalty shootout. more...
South American Roundup June 08: An Analysis and Results of South American WC Qualifying Games
Category: International Soccer
With Paraguay setting the pace and Chile stealing some invaluable points in this article we look at Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela after games 5 and 6. more...
Hiking the Taquesi Trail, Bolivia: High Altitudes Welcome Trekkers Keen to Stay Near La Paz
Category: Bolivia Travel
Prepare well, come with a guide, know the routes and above all, enjoy yourself while trekking a few short hours from the Bolivia de facto capital of La Paz. more...
Can Paraguay Cement First Place?: South America's Mammoth Route to South Africa 2010 Recommences
Category: International Soccer
After a 7 month break and some pretty interesting recent international friendlies, South American teams face off once more. How will the table stand in mid June? more...
Ingrid Betancourt - FARC Hostage: 6 Years and Counting in Captivity by the FARC Guerrillas
Category: Colombia
International pressure is mounting on the FARC to release the desperately ill former Presidential candidate they are holding in the jungle - Colombia waits... more...
International Terrorist Links: Cooperation Between Colombia's FARC, Ireland´s IRA, the Basque ETA
Category: Colombia
With all the ruckus in the Colombian political arena we look at one factor that has risen its ugly head in recent months once again - international terrorist cooperation. more...
Where to Stay in Mompox, Colombia: From High End to Backpacker Options, All Listed Here
Category: Colombia Travel
Mompox has a real shortage of accommodation options for the Semana Santa high season. Out of this period you'll not have any trouble finding a place to stay. more...
Colombia’s Tourist Boom Continues: South America's Suprise Package Continues to Grow
Category: Colombia Travel
Asked to think of Colombia, most people will imagine a war-torn country overrun with gun wielding cocaine cartels. This image couldn't be further from the truth. more...
Category: International Soccer
South America's Champions League kicks off to the glee of football aficionados the world over. Who's hot who's not and who do you think will go the distance? more...
Hidden Colombian Caribbean Gems: Tolu, Covenas and the Islas San Bernardo
Category: Colombia Travel
Little parcels of paradise on the Colombian Caribbean that - close enough to be reached in a few hours from Cartagena - should be on every traveller's itinerary. more...
Medellin: A Walking Tour: All of This City's Downtown Attractions Can Be Seen on Foot
Category: Colombia Travel
Medellin - as has been frequently reported in recent years - has turned the corner from the dark days of its Escobarian past and is powering forward. more...
South American 2010 Qualifying: How the Teams Stand After Four Games
Category: Soccer (general)
Argentina and Brazil are still the most talked about teams, but results show that the South American Qualifying Group for South Africa 2010 is more competitive than ever more...
Cali, Colombia's Salsa Capital: Visit Colombia's Third City
Category: Colombia Travel
Colombia's third city and the world capital of salsa entices tourists into its balmy climes to enjoy late nights, fine dining and an impressive arts scene. more...
Choco, Colombia's Pacific Coast: Rainforests, Abundant Marine Life, Adventure Sports and more
Category: Colombia Travel
Choco remains largely unvisited and unknown by visitors to Colombia and Colombians alike, now is the time to visit. more...
Recycling Comes To Bogota: Can Colombia’s Polluted Capital Go Green?
Category: Colombia
Bogota is an environmentalist's worst nightmare. No recycling plan, diesel belching buses, polluted rivers. But, things are looking up. more...
Domestic Air Travel in Colombia: With Vast Distances to Travel - Air Travel is Often the Only Way
Category: Colombia Travel
While bus overland travel is the norm in Colombia, many foreigners are put off by tedious and occasionally dangerous overnight journeys for obvious reasons. more...
Uribe and Chavez to Meet Friday: The Two Presidents Plan to Discuss the Plight of those in Captivity
Category: Colombia
This Friday, President Chavez of Venezuela and President Uribe of Colombia will meet to discuss a humanitarian exchange between the Colombian Government and the FARC. more...
South Americans in the EPL: South America's Exports to the Premier League this 2007/08 Season
Category: Premier/Championship Leagues
Can the new collection of Brazilians and Argentines make a real impact in the Premiership this season? There are reasons to believe they can... more...
Category: International Soccer
In a two year marathon beginning this October, South America's finest footballers play for a place at the World Cup Finals in South Africa 2010. more...
Anthony Bourdain in Colombia: Bogota 21 August 2007
Category: Colombia Travel
Journeyman Chef, Manhattan resident, punk music enthusiast and best selling author Anthony Bourdain comes to Bogota this August, just don't mention Billy Joel more...
Brazil Win Copa America 2007: Favourites Argentina Brushed Aside 3-0 in Maracaibo
Category: International Soccer
As predictable as the final paring may have been, the end result was well adrift of the form book. Read about the final standings, highs and lows of the Copa America 2007 more...
Four Teams Out in the Copa America: Venezuela's Tournament Reaches the Quarter Finals
Category: International Soccer
With the Group phases completed on July 5 we bid farewell to four teams in this 42nd Copa America in Venezuela. Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and the USA are sent home more...
Boca Win Sixth Copa Libertadores: Riquelme Single-handedly Brings the Trophy Back to Buenos Aires
Category: International Soccer
Linking attack and midfield in a devastatingly effective fashion, Juan Roman Riquelme helps the Bombonera faithful enjoy a sixth South American Champions League title. more...
Adventures in San Gil, Colombia: Colonial Wealth and Adrenalin Sports in Santander
Category: Colombia Travel
Where in South America beyond Cusco, Peru can one combine sightseeing colonial masterpieces and white-water rafting? Look no further than San Gil. more...
Copa Libertadores 2007: South America's Champions League Reaches the Semi-finals
Category: International Soccer
In South America football is passion, so for showmanship, dazzling performances and unpredictable outcomes, look no further than the Semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores. more...
French Guiana: A Brief Guide For Potential Visitors
Category: French Guiana Travel
In order to fully understand South America, the journeyman traveller would be well advised to visit French Guiana. more...
The Vallenato Festival Ends: Reflections on 5 days of Mayhem in Valledupar
Category: South America Travel (general)
Valledupar is coming down from a successful and internationally graced Vallenato Festival. Unstoppable parties and friendly locals make this 40th edition one to remember more...
Festival de La Leyenda Vallenata: Folk Music Aficionados and Tourists Descend on Valledupar
Category: South America Travel (general)
Rey de Reyes - King of Kings - this year's 40th Vallenato Music Festival in Valledupar promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Colombian folkloric tradition more...
24 Hours in Montevideo: Major Port and Uruguayan Capital, this City Charms
Category: Uruguay Travel
While Buenos Aires hollers boisterously across the bay, Montevideo merely whispers confidently. It is this polite welcome that entices travellers to this enchanting city. more...
From Cartagena to Mompox: Isolated and Well Off the Beaten Track - Mompox Can Be Reached
Category: Colombia Travel
Deep in the sweltering heat of the Bolivar Department, Mompox is a current day Colonial relic and backwater. A new road may change this, visit it now in its sleepy glory more...
Bocagrande Beach, Columbia: The Eyesore on Cartagena's Doorstep
Category: Colombia Travel
Tourists searching for a quick retreat from the heat of Cartagena's walled city erroneously visit Bocagrande. Parque Tayrona this is not. You have been warned. more...
Gabriel Garcia Marquez Honoured: Cartagena hosts Nobel Prize Winner and World Literati
Category: Latin American Literature
This week Cartagena's streets are packed with artists, musicians and writers all here participating in and attending the IV Congreso Internacional de la Lengua Espanola more...
Villa de Leyva: Home to the largest Plaza Mayor in the Americas, possibly
Category: Colombia Travel
A few hours from Bogota, the delightfully chic, Villa de Leyva possesses colonial wealth, gastronomic wonders and internationally celebrated festivals. more...
The Ruins at San Agustin: A Colombian Archeological Paradise Securely Shrouded in Mystery
Category: Colombia Travel
For years the ruins at San Agustin were inaccessible due to FARC guerrilla activity in Huila province. Now easily accessible and affordable, San Agustin is a destination. more...
Concacaf World Cup Qualifying June 2009: Central American Rivalries Heat Up En Route to South Africa
Category: International Soccer
Costa Rica and the USA are the clear favourites to qualify directly for 2010 while third and fourth spots remain up for grabs. Where are Mexico? more...
Boutique Hostels in South America: A New Breed of Hostel is Emerging South of the Border
Category: South America Travel (general)
Gone are the days of flea palaces and shared bathrooms, Boutique Hostels and Flashpackers have hit the continent and are changing the way we travel. more...
Category: International Soccer
Shedding tears in the post match conference Argentine football legend and national coach Diego Maradona could not blame the altitude of La Paz for his team's humiliation more...
Bogota's Security Worsens: Colombia's Capital Under Attack?
Category: Colombia
With violent crime on the rise and the ugly face of terrorism once again raising its profile in Bogota, what will the city's Mayor Samuel Moreno do? more...
The Copa Libertadores Group Phase – Phase 2: South America’s Champions League 2009 Takes Off
Category: International Soccer
The un-fancied Liga of Ecuador lifted the Copa Libertadores in 2008, proving that the distances between the traditional powers and the unfashionable teams is closing. more...
Cartagena Exceeds Expectations: Colombia's No1 Tourist Attractions Makes Its Point
Category: Colombia Travel
Colombia's Caribbean jewel and the first Spanish city in South America continues to reel in the tourists. more...
Category: Colombia Travel
From December 4-17 all Corferias Conference Centre in Bogota is given over to exhibiting high quality Colombian and international art and design products. more...
Round 4 of Concacaf World Cup Qualifying: Costa Rica Clear Favourites for South Africa
Category: International Soccer
A further six teams have fallen by the wayside in this endless qualifying stage for the Concacaf nations en route to South Africa 2010 more...
Category: Documentary Films (general)
Released in October 2008 the Discovery Channel's offering piecing together Officer Jhon Frank Pinchao's incredible escape from captivity after a staggering 9 years more...
Category: International Soccer
Despite losing away to Trinidad and Tobago team USA have cemented their place in the next round. Jamaica and Honduras are making life tough for Mexico as Guatemala falter more...
CONCACAF Qualifying October 2008: Mexico, USA and Costa Rica Clear Favourites to Progress
Category: International Soccer
The Central American, North American and Caribbean Qualifying groups for the World Cup 2010 in South Africa resume this weekend. more...
Category: International Soccer
Football is the world's most popular sport and nothing compares to watching your team in the World Cup Finals. Fans in Central America and the Caribbean are no different more...
Things to do in Panama City: Culture, History, Birdwatching and Shopping
Category: Panama Travel
Situated on the Pacific side of the Central American isthmus, Panama City holds a cornucopia of tourist attractions. more...
Ingrid Betancourt and American Contractors Freed: FARC Hostages Rescued in Colombian Military Trap
Category: Colombia
Former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt, 3 American contractors and 11 key military officials are freed in southeastern Colombia. more...
Category: International Soccer
The road to the World Cup Finals in South Africa in 2010 is far from clear as displayed by the topsy turvy results of games 5 and 6 in the South American qualifying group more...
The Copa Libertadores Final 2008: Fluminense and LDU Quito Battle For South American Title
Category: International Soccer
South America's Champions League comes to a close with an intriguing and historic final to behold in 2008 as neither Fluminense nor LDU Quito have won the Copa. more...
Colombia Tries for 2011 Tournament: Sub 20 World Cup Could be Coming to South America in 2011
Category: International Soccer
With a host of talented youngsters lining up to be picked and the opportunity to spot the stars of tomorrow, Colombia may be the ideal host for 2011. more...
Barranquilla, Colombia: Colombia's Carnaval City and Major Atlantic Port
Category: Colombia Travel
With a massive Carnaval - second only to Rio's - Colombia's increasing stability and Shakira's swinging hips, tourism to Barranquilla is on the rise. more...
Festival de Teatro de Bogota: Performing Arts Enthusiasts in Colombia Rejoice
Category: Colombia Travel
The world famous Festival de Teatro de Bogota is back in town in 2008 and promises to delight all with street performers, stage productions and more from March 7-23. more...
Mompox, Colombia: Some Tips, Hints and Advice for the Garciamarquian heartland
Category: Colombia Travel
In the centre of the colonial heartland of Colombia lies perhaps the key to the second wave of tourist attractions in this South American nation. more...
Colombia Mobilizes on Feb 4: Massive March In Opposition to the FARC Planned
Category: Colombia
Against the backdrop of souring relations between Colombia and Venezuela over the release of two hostages, Colombia's citizens are to unite on February 4. more...
Copa Libertadores 2008: South America’s Champions League Kicks Off
Category: International Soccer
Teams from ten South American nations, in addition special invitation teams from Mexico, head to the Copa Libertadores in 2008 with dreams of continental glory. more...
Barrancabermeja, Colombia: Home to Colombia's Biggest Oil Refinery and Birthplace of the ELN
Category: Colombia Travel
Home to Colombia's biggest refinery, and largely shunned by tourists, Barrancabermeja may be the perfect place to mix it up with some Colombians. more...
Iron Maiden in Latin America!: Metal Giants Arrive on Their “Somewhere Back in Time” World Tour 08
Category: Metal Music (general)
Iron Maiden need little introduction as their hammering music and striking artwork have made them a worldwide brand and helped them shift more than 150 million albums. more...
Day Trip Ideas From Cali: Colombia's Salsa Capital Draws Tourists to its Lush Valleys
Category: Colombia Travel
Despite having a great deal to keep the visitor occupied within its city limits; real treasures lay round about Colombia's third city. more...
Buenaventura, Colombia: Welcome to Colombia's Most Important Pacific Port
Category: Colombia Travel
Unlovely and dangerous, Buenaventura is an essential port on the Colombian pacific coast and the gateway for tourist destinations. more...
Colombia's First Low Cost Airline: Easyfly to Start Operations in October
Category: Colombia Travel
Twelve years behind the brainchild of Stelios in Europe, Easyjet, a new low cost airline - Easyfly - is to open Colombia up further. more...
San Andres and Providencia: Colombia’s Caribbean islands
Category: Colombia Travel
Often overlooked by travellers to South America, the islands of San Andres and Providencia offer visitors sun, eco-tourism and shopping. more...
Category: Colombia Travel
Bogota, the cultural heartbeat and capital of Colombia, is undergoing major changes, welcoming tourists with open arms and providing visitors with quality hotels to match more...
Tayrona National Park, Colombia: Hints, Tips and Ideas for Colombia's Beach Destination
Category: Colombia Travel
Need to rest after the Lost City Trek, fancy an escape from Santa Marta, not keen on Taganga...head to paradise and beach slumming in Tayrona more...
Day Trip Ideas From Bogota: Located Close to The City - 3 Places You Ought to Visit
Category: Colombia Travel
Tired of the City and in need of fresh air and outdoor activities, here are a few options for all tastes, Guatavita, Suesca and the Sabana Steam Train. more...
Category: South America Travel (general)
Soda Stereo, the template for all Latin American rock bands that have followed in their wake, have confirmed that rumours of an impending tour Me Veras Volver are true. more...
Punta del Diablo, Uruguay: Laid Back Fishing Village, Killer Beaches And Good Surf Too
Category: Uruguay Travel
Representing everything that Uruguay's major beach destination, Punta del Este, is not, Punta del Diablo is a haven for those who want to holiday with Uruguayans. more...
Bogota's Half Marathon: July 29, 2007 and Bigger than Ever!
Category: Colombia Travel
Long distance running at altitude is no joke. The Colombian capital hosts the eighth edition of its half marathon competition. Build up that lung capacity now! more...
Colombia Unites on July 5: Citizens Come Together Against Kidnapping
Category: Colombia
High profile prisoners remain in the hands of the FARC rebels but the deaths of 11 politicians from Cali has appalled a hardened nation. On July 5 Colombians protest. more...
The Copa Libertadores Final 2007: South America's Champions League final pitches Boca vs. Gremio
Category: International Soccer
The Final for the Copa Libertadores, South America's Champions League, will see Gremio of Porto Alegre (Bra) take on the might and history of Boca Juniors of Buenos Aires more...
FIFA Ruling on Matches at Altitude: Bolivia, Colombia and Ecuador To Suffer
Category: International Soccer
Courting controversy once again, FIFA is to inform several South American countries that they can no longer play their national team games at high altitudes. more...
Copa America Venezuela 2007: President Chavez Sets the Stage For a Memorable Tournament
Category: International Soccer
Football is coming to Venezuela from June 26 to July 15 in the form of the 42nd edition of the Copa America. Expect some upsets, this could the best tournament yet. more...
Andres Carne de Res: A Restaurant for Carnivores, 40 Short Minutes From Bogota
Category: Colombia Travel
Fancy settling down for a quiet meal with a loved one in Colombia? Never! Feast on prime cuts, down potent cocktails and rumba the night away Colombian style in Chia. more...
Taganga: An Escape from Santa Marta
Category: Colombia Travel
Just a short collectivo ride from Santa Marta, Taganga is a place to relax post Ciudad Perdida trek more...
Vallenato Festival's Ugly Secret: Colombia’s Conflict Stains Folkloric Celebrations
Category: Colombia
The 40th Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata - Rey de Reyes - begins on the 26th of April but an altogether darker element looms large in the foreground. more...
Feria del Libro de Bogota: The 20th Annual Bogota Book Festival Holds Some Special Attractions
Category: Colombia Travel
As UNESCO nominated World Book Capital City 2007, Bogota throws open its arms to all on April 19 for the city's 20th Annual Book Festival more...
A Visit to the Mompox Cock Fights: A Soul Searching Trip to a Colombian Passion
Category: Colombia Travel
Drinking, gambling, shouting, spitting and ultimately death. A tale of a trip deep into the strange fraternity of cock fighters in the Colombian interior. more...
Cartagena de Indias: Pirate Target and Colombian Caribbean Gem
Category: Colombia Travel
Founded in1533 by Pedro de Heredia, colonial Cartagena bewitches Tourists and Colombians alike more...
Cosmetic Surgery in Colombia: New Surgery Packages Lure Tourists to Bogota
Category: Colombia Travel
Have you ever considered a package holiday that included an extreme makeover or plastic surgery as well as five star luxuries and a city tour? more...
The Candelaria, Bogota: The Cathedral, Palacio de Justica, Calle 10 and Teatro Colon
Category: Colombia Travel
Bogota is shaking off its unjust reputation as mad, bad and dangerous. The Candelaria is the very heartbeat of this cultural and touristic renaissance. more...
