Top 5 typically Colombian

During our trips in Colombia, the typical Colombian hospitality, is always one of the highlights of the trip. Colombians are helpful, service “minded” and like to chat. Above all, they make you feel welcome. Does someone drop by unexpectedly? Fun! There is always enough food and drink for everyone!

Sancocho is to Colombians what BBQ is to many other people. The traditional soup, is traditionally enjoyed on a Sunday with the whole family, or when there is something to celebrate. The original Sancocho is prepared on a wood fire, according to “grandmother’s recipe”. Are you in Cali and going to Pance on a Sunday? Then you will undoubtedly see families there making Sancocho on the banks of the river.

(Photo: El Tiempo)

A cold? Trouble with your stomach? Chances are a Colombian grandmother (abuela)  will give you a natural recipe to get rid of it. She probably got the recipe from her mother, who in turn got it from her mother, as recipes are passed down from generation to generation. Our favorite remedy: the natural “antibiotic” ginger, for a sore throat. Soak pieces of ginger in hot water, add lime and you instantly boost your immune system! Abuela’s recipes always work -:)

In convenience stores, this expression is very common, it means to ask for something extra. When your order is  processed at the counter and you say “dame la ñapa”; you are asking for a little extra. This is not seen as negative; on the contrary; it is a way of customer loyalty for the shop owner. If there is no fixed price for a product – at the market and in small stores – it is also quite normal to ask for a discount.

An important part of everyday life is “La rumba” (the party) There is always a reason for a party. This does not have to be planned in advance, quite the contrary. A “get together” often happens quite spontaneously. Deciding with a group of friends on a Saturday night to go to a friend’s house and have a party there -unannounced- is quite normal.