“!Now Ya Know” is a weekly series from Mixologi profiling artists you may not have heard of.  Every week we will be selecting a new artist for you to keep on your radar.

Remember when Mixologi went to Colombia? Click here!

I’ve learned that there is always a mental barrier of entry to an amazing destination you might want to travel to. You’ve heard them all before: Europe is too expensive, Asia is too far, Africa too hot.  The folks who are not willing to let those barriers deter them, are the ones that get to enjoy the amazing experience of travel.  In this segment of !Now Ya Know, I want to introduce you to a travel opportunity most people completely over look because of its “dangerous” stigma- COLOMBIA

About a year ago my best friends and I traveled to Colombia; specifically Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin and Barranquilla.  In speaking with people prior to our departure, folks who had been there had nothings but high praise about the country. Conversely, the people who hadn’t, were highly skeptical.  Curious huh?!

Our job at Mixologi is to help you take the guessing game out of how you spend your time and money.  Having said that, after going to Colombia for 20 days, I am here to officially announce, “ALL COASTS ARE CLEAR.”   I can say with conviction, that never once did we feel like we were in danger. Now how much traveling with three 6’5″ black dudes helped is hard to say, but nonetheless we felt really safe. Remember, no matter where you go in the world- whether its Oakland or Beijing- you have to be smart, keep your head on a swivel, and stay out of the bad neighborhoods. Colombia is no different.  But if you are looking for a country with deep culture, amazing food, exotic beachfronts, friendly locals, and ethnic diversity, look no further.

Don’t take it from me, check out what Richard McColl, a travel writer from one of the best travel writing sites Matador Network thinks.