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COLOMIBA FROM THE CARIBBEAN TO THE ANDES: A CREATIVE ADVENTURE WITH CLAUDIA LAROYE

Experience Colombia with a writer’s eye on this small group trip.

Colombia Retreat with Claudia Laroye: From the Caribbean to the Andes. Experience Colombia with a Writer’s Eye and a Traveller’s Curiosity.


This isn’t just a tour—it’s a creative adventure. Join travel writer Claudia Laroye for a journey through Colombia that blends vivid landscapes, cultural immersion, and space to create. 

An epic, curated Colombia journey for women — travelling independently, together. Experience this joyful journey and ignite your creativity during this adventure through cultural discovery.

This is a small-group experience designed for women who value meaningful connections, elevated style, and stories worth telling. You’ll arrive solo, but from the very first night you’ll be part of a like-minded group — women who don’t know each other yet, and quickly become the best kind of travel companions.

Across Cartagena’s Caribbean magic and Medellín’s creative renaissance, you’ll blend world-class dining (including a restaurant recognized by The World’s 50 Best), rooftop cocktails, a private speedboat day in the Rosario Islands, Afro-Caribbean rhythm on the beach, and powerful community-led storytelling. Everything is taken care of — so you can focus on feeling present, safe, and fully alive. Expect beauty, depth, laughter, and that rare feeling of: I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.

Claudia Laroye is an award-winning travel writer and author of A Gelato a Day, a collection of stories about the real joys (and chaos) of family travel. Based in Vancouver, Claudia brings years of storytelling experience—and a great sense of humour—to every journey. Throughout your Colombia trip with Claudia, you’ll have the opportunity to journal and receive travel writing tips from Claudia. She’ll share travel writing techniques she’s developed in her 15 years as a travel writer.

Come to Colombia with Claudia; leave with stories. 
Dates: Oct 12-20, 2026

Highlights

  • Exploring the incredible historic sites in Cartagena
  • Travelling with Travel Writer, Claudia Laroye
  • Immersing yourself in true Colombian Culture
  • Discovering the flavours of Colombia
  • Exploring the incredible historical cities of Cartagena & Medellin
  • Learning about coffee from bean to cup
  • Travelling with other like-minded people and sharing travel story ideas
Claudia Laroye - Claudia Laroye - Colombia Retreat from Caribbean to the Andes

Cartagena, Colombia

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

Welcome to Cartagena! 
Transfer in from the airport. Please look for your name on a sign in the Arrival’s Hall. 
Cartagena is a vibrant Caribbean jewel where centuries of history meet a rhythm of life that is unmistakably Colombian. Within its flower-draped balconies and storied stone walls, you’ll discover a city shaped by indigenous, African, and Spanish influences—expressed through its music, cuisine, art, and warm coastal spirit. From sunlit plazas to nearby island escapes, Cartagena invites you to slow down, connect deeply, and experience the colour and soul of the Caribbean.

Cocktail Experience in Alquimico – Start Time: 17:00
Kick off the trip with rooftop cocktails at Alquímico, Cartagena’s most iconic cocktail spot (No.8 The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024) — perfect for meeting your travel crew.
This is your official “we’re doing this” moment. Alquímico is Cartagena’s most famous cocktail destination — a multi-level house of flavour, music, and rooftop sparkle where local ingredients become art. It’s an effortless setting to meet the other women: easy conversation, shared excitement, and that first wave of connection that turns a group of strangers into a crew. Expect a vibrant atmosphere, beautifully crafted drinks, and a night that feels celebratory from the first sip.

Dinner at Celele Restaurant  Start Time: 19:00  Duration: 2 hrs.
A world-class dinner at Celele, a restaurant recognized by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants — a true culinary highlight of the trip.
Tonight is one of those meals that becomes a lifelong memory. Celele is recognized by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, and it’s celebrated for showcasing Colombia’s Caribbean biodiversity through a refined, surprising menu. Expect a journey of flavours that feel simultaneously elegant and rooted — ingredients with stories, textures you didn’t expect, and a sense of place in every bite. This is also prime bonding time: the kind of table where conversation deepens, laughter gets louder, and you realize how quickly travel friendship forms when something truly special is shared.

Overnight: Hotel Mood Matuna (or similar)
Meals: -/-/D

Cartagena Tour - Colombia Retreat with Claudia Laroye

DAY 2: EXPLORING CARTAGENA THROUGH ITS FOOD & RHYTHMS

Enjoy a morning wandering the streets before the crowds. 

Lunch experience at Mama Nilma Restaurant – Start Time: 13:00
Step into a real Cartagenera home in Getsemaní for a soulful lunch hosted by Mayo and Lily — traditional dishes made with love, the way they’re meant to be eaten.
This isn’t a restaurant — it’s an invitation into real Cartagena. In the heart of Getsemaní, you’ll step inside the home of Mayo and Lily, two local women who open their doors to welcome you like family. Here, you’ll taste traditional Cartagenera recipes that rarely appear on menus — the kind of food that lives in kitchens, not restaurants, made slowly and generously, with love. It’s intimate, joyful, and deeply human: stories shared over the table, flavours tied to memory, and that rare travel moment where you stop being a visitor and feel like you belong. For a group of solo women, it’s especially powerful — a warm space where strangers become friends, one bite (and one conversation) at a time.

Cartagena Salsa Afternoon – Follow the Rhythm of the City – Start Time: 15:00 – Duration 6 hrs.
Leave the touristy Old City behind and dive into the real Cartagena nightlife — local dance spots where Cartageneros actually go, guided and supported every step of the way.

Tonight, you go beyond the postcard version of Cartagena. You’ll step out of the tourist bubble of the Old City and into the neighbourhoods and venues where locals truly go to dance — places filled with real energy, real music, and zero performance for visitors. With your guide (and a dancer to support you), you’ll hop between iconic local spots like Donde Fidel, El Koreano, El York, and Charanga, learning moves, feeling the rhythm, and letting the night unfold naturally. This experience is about confidence and connection: you don’t need to be a dancer — you just need to show up, and your group will cheer you on. Expect sweaty joy, big laughs, and that thrilling feeling of having access to a side of Cartagena most travellers never get to see.

Overnight: Hotel Mood Matuna (or similar)
Meals: B/L/-

Modern Cartagena - Colombia Tour

DAY 3: ROSARIO ISLANDS

Private Speedboat to Rosario Islands – Start Time: 08:30 – Duration 7 hrs.

Savour luxury on a private speedboat to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena. Explore pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and historic shipwrecks at your own pace.
Experience the ultimate luxury and privacy with a private speedboat excursion to the enchanting Rosario Islands, one of the Caribbean’s most coveted and alluring destinations. Departing from Cartagena, embark on a day trip that offers an exclusive opportunity to explore this stunning archipelago at your own pace, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and fascinating shipwrecks that make Rosario Islands a must-see destination in Colombia.

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel at 8:00 am, followed by a transfer to the port where your private speedboat awaits. As you set sail across the turquoise waters, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Tierra Bomba, a nearby island that serves as a captivating backdrop to your journey. The speedboat is equipped with a portable cooler filled with ice, allowing you to enjoy your favourite beverages and snacks as you cruise through the archipelago, visiting highlights such as Isla Grande, Playa Azul, Playa Blanca, Playa Linda, Playa Libre, and Barú.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Rosario Islands as you snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life or explore the intriguing shipwrecks that bear witness to the countless sea battles fought in these waters. During your visit, you’ll also have the option to purchase lunch at one of the islands’ beachfront restaurants. Enjoy freshly caught seafood and traditional Caribbean dishes while taking in stunning ocean views, a perfect way to complement your island experience.

Take time to relax and unwind on the pristine beaches of the Rosario Islands, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquillity of this tropical paradise. Whether you choose to snorkel, swim, or simply relax on the beach, the Rosario Islands offer endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. As the day draws to a close, board your private speedboat for the return journey to Cartagena, arriving back in the city at 3:00 pm.

With its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant marine life, and fascinating history, a private speedboat excursion to the Rosario Islands offers an unforgettable day trip that combines luxury, adventure, and relaxation in one of Colombia’s most captivating destinations. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of the Rosario Islands on this exclusive private tour from Cartagena.

Overnight: Hotel Mood Matuna (or similar)
Meals: B/L/-

Cartagena Experience

DAY 4: DRUMS & WEAVING WORKSHOP + STREET FOOD TOUR

Zenú Weaving Workshop and Drums at the Beach Start Time: 09:00

Stitch together the story of ingenious Zenu and Afro heritage and handicraft on this experience that includes a Caña Flecha weaving and drums workshop.
On this tour, you will be picked up at your hotel to take you to Zenú Gold Museum where you will see amazing gold ornaments crafted by the ancient Zenú indigenous people. The Zenú indigenous guide will give you a deep insight and further information of the pieces and their iconography, full of meaning and history that reflects Zenú’s worldview. After the visit, you will head to the 20 de Julio neighbourhood, a peripheral area in Cartagena, where the Ninha workshop takes place. When you arrive, you will meet resilient indigenous women who lead this weaving project and workshop as a way to support their families and keep alive their endangered indigenous heritage. Through this group of women, you will get to know the history of the Zenú people, the struggles they have faced, and their story of resilience.

You’ll hunt down the energetic rhythms of Afro-Colombian sounds and genres with experts. Your experience will start when you’re picked up to go to La Boquilla, a fishing village outside Cartagena with a flourishing culture. After getting to know the neighbourhood a bit with the company of one of the locals, you’ll embark on your musical trip. At a local music school, teachers and drum makers will explain to you the ins and outs of the traditional rhythms of Colombia’s Caribbean Coast and the instruments used to play them. After a short introduction, you’ll learn some basic rhythms to play on the classic tambores to join a jam session with the group. This usually includes a chance to observe the impressive dances and moves of the locals.

Cartagena Street Food Tour – Start Time: 16:00 – Duration 3 hrs.
Let the streets be your guide as you savour the traces of centuries past, wrapped in the delightful present of Cartagena’s street food delights.
Welcome to Cartagena, a city that not only boasts a rich history but also delights your taste buds with its vibrant street food culture. As you embark on this flavorful journey, your adventure begins at the iconic Clock Tower, where charming stories of Cartagena’s gastronomy unfold. Within this historic landmark, a kiosk awaits you, offering the delicious combination of patacones with cheese—a delightful introduction to the diversity of street food that awaits you.

Wandering through the lively streets, your next stop is the “Sombreo Vueltiao,” where you will savour a small cocktail capturing the essence of local flavours. Sip, enjoy, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you delve into the cultural fusion that defines the Cartagena culinary scene.

Continue your gastronomic exploration with a visit to “Palito de Caucho,” where you’ll taste the delicious cheese arepa and then savour the unique touch of the egg arepa. The journey takes a savoury turn as you indulge in chorizo, perfectly complemented with a refreshing sip of “Costeñita” beer. The local ambiance enhances the experience, turning each bite into a celebration of Colombian coastal cuisine.

The adventure doesn’t stop there. A delight for cheese lovers awaits you at the “Deditos de Queso” stop, where you’ll enjoy these finger-licking delights. Flavours dance on your palate, showcasing the diverse and charming range of street food offerings.

As you wander through the charming streets of Cartagena, your taste buds are destined for a culinary crescendo. Taste the refreshing Salpicon, the crispy goodness of buñuelos, and the savoury embrace of carimañolas. Each bite tells a story of tradition, heritage, and the warmth of Colombian hospitality.

Conclude your street food culinary odyssey back at the Clock Tower, where a charming tray of sweets awaits you. This sweet ending brings the tour full circle, leaving you with a satisfying blend of savoury and sweet memories from the vibrant streets of Cartagena.

While you walk through the streets of Cartagena, you will dive into its daily life through this tasteful experience.  You will see and taste locally grown tropical fruits like granadilla, mango, lulo, soursop, and papaya.  Try delicious fried snacks like arepas (corn flatbread), stuffed potatoes, empanadas, kibbeh, buñuelos, and carimañolas, while getting in touch with local music, history, and architecture. Sweeten up the evening with colourful cocadas, arequipe, enyucado, raspao, salpicón, and bocadillo with cheese, and if thirst gets in the way, try refreshing bolis, coconut water or even a cup of tinto!  

Overnight: Hotel Mood Matuna (or similar)
Meals: B/-/D

Medellin Tour - Colombia Retreat with Claudia Laroye

DAY 5: TRAVEL TO MEDELLIN

Enjoy your final morning in Cartagena before your afternoon flight to Medellín.
Transfers included to/from your hotels. 

Welcome to Medellin! 
Nestled in a lush Andean valley, Medellín is a city that has transformed itself into one of Latin America’s most dynamic cultural capitals. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” its innovative spirit is reflected in vibrant neighbourhoods, cutting-edge design, and a thriving arts and culinary scene rooted in Paisa tradition. In Medellín, meaningful encounters and powerful local stories reveal a community whose resilience and creativity shape an experience that is both inspiring and deeply human.

Overnight: Hotel Boutique Quinta Ladera (or similar)
Meals: B/-/-

Colombia Tour

DAY 6: MEDELLIN AFRO TOUR + COMUNA 13 + EVENING DANCING

Afro Tour in Comuna 13 with local rapper – Start Time: 08:30 – Duration 4 hrs.

Explore Comuna 13 beyond the tourist circuit with AfroTur, guided by a local musician and producer. You’ll visit lesser-seen neighbourhoods, meet artists and changemakers, and experience how music, culture, and community projects helped transform one of Medellín’s most stigmatized districts into a symbol of resilience.

Comuna 13 is often called a “must-see” — but with AfroTur, you go deeper than the headline. Led by a local musician and producer, this experience connects you to the neighbourhood through the language that helped reshape it: music, art, and community leadership. You’ll begin at the highest part of the comuna in Nuevos Conquistadores, where the views are wide and dramatic — Medellín’s rural outskirts on one side, and the city stretching out below. From there, you’ll descend on foot through intricate streets where mass tourism hasn’t arrived, hearing firsthand how local youth and artists used hip-hop and cultural movements to create new possibilities in a place once defined by fear.

Along the way, you’ll meet inspiring local voices and learn the real context behind the transformation — including the difficult years marked by gang conflict, paramilitary presence, and urban warfare. You’ll visit Sonbata’s rooftop urban gardening project, an innovative model growing on top of local homes, and take a refreshing pause (yes, there’s a popsicle moment). Then it’s time to participate: you’ll join a senior instructor from a local arts school to learn rhythms through movement and persuasion — using the same methodology used with local youth.

To close, you’ll arrive at the more well-known, vibrant area filled with murals and graffiti that tell Comuna 13’s story — buzzing with galleries, small shops, and viewpoints. The contrast is powerful: you’ll witness both faces of the community, and leave with a deeper understanding of Medellín’s resilience — and a stronger connection within your group as you share an experience that is as moving as it is unforgettable.

Unleash Your Inner Dancer at Perro Negro Club – Start Time: 21:00 – Duration 4 hrs.
Experience the pulsating heart of Medellín’s nightlife at Perro Negro Club, a legendary reggaeton hotspot in Provenza. Immerse yourself in a subterranean sanctuary of uninhibited movement and sensuality, where you can dance the night away without judgment. This iconic club offers a chance to connect with Medellín’s authentic music scene.
Get ready to dive headfirst into the pulsating heart of Medellín’s nightlife at Perro Negro Club, a legendary reggaeton hotspot nestled in the vibrant Provenza neighbourhood of El Poblado. This isn’t just any club; it’s a subterranean sanctuary designed to give you the most unforgettable party experience in the city. Since 2017, Perro Negro has championed the spirit of “perreo,” creating a safe and electrifying space where you can let loose and dance without an ounce of judgment. You’ll find yourself immersed in a dark, alluring basement, where neon lights illuminate a scene of uninhibited movement and sensuality. Believe us, after a night of dancing at Perro Negro, you won’t be the same!

While reggaeton exploded onto the Medellín scene between 2000 and 2001, it wasn’t until the birth of Perro Negro that a club truly dedicated solely to the genre emerged. It took over a decade and a half for a “perreo” nightclub to stand the test of time, evolving into a benchmark for the genre. Thanks to its loyal audience and the city’s now globally recognized artists, Perro Negro continues to grow exponentially, solidifying its place as a true icon in Medellín’s music scene. This is your chance to experience the city’s authentic nightlife, with significant human interactions on the dance floor. You’re not just going to a club; you’re stepping into a cultural phenomenon.

Overnight: Hotel Boutique Quinta Ladera (or similar)
Meals: B/-/-

Coffee Experience - Colombia Tour

DAY 7: SOUL OF COFFEE: AN IMMERSIVE FARM EXPERIENCE

Start Time: 09:00  Duration Full Day

Visit a traditional coffee farm near Medellín and immerse yourself in the world of high-quality organic coffee. Discover the entire process from seed to cup, and conclude with a tasting of the exquisite coffee grown on the farm.

Just 30 minutes from Parque El Poblado, in the heart of Itagüí, lies a coffee farm where tradition and passion have shaped every bean since 1948. Nestled among rolling hills and lush greenery, this farm embodies Colombia’s deep-rooted coffee heritage, offering an authentic journey through the art of coffee-making. More than just a tour, this experience allows you to step into the world of the coffee grower, discovering the secrets behind one of the most cherished beverages in the world.

Your visit begins with a warm welcome at the farm’s Visitor Center, where you’ll enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee, setting the tone for the day ahead. Donning traditional coffee harvester attire, you’ll step into the plantations, surrounded by endless rows of coffee bushes. Here, an expert guide will walk you through each phase of coffee cultivation, from the careful planting of seedlings to the intricate processes of harvesting, pulping, and drying. As you move through the farm, you’ll witness firsthand how every step is carried out with precision, ensuring only the finest beans make it to your cup.

The journey continues with an in-depth look at the art of coffee processing—trillado, roasting, and grinding—where you’ll uncover the transformation of raw beans into the rich, aromatic coffee Colombia is known for. To complete the experience, you’ll take part in a barista-led tasting session, exploring the delicate nuances of flavor, aroma, and texture that define specialty coffee. This hands-on immersion will not only deepen your appreciation for coffee but also leave you with a profound connection to the dedication and craftsmanship behind every sip.

In the afternoon…we visit Moravia. 
Explore Moravia, a vibrant Medellín neighbourhood transformed from a former landfill into a dynamic cultural hub. Walk through streets lined with evocative street art and witness the community’s resilience. Discover how this area encapsulates the spirit of urban recovery and creativity.

Discover the remarkable transformation of Moravia in Medellín on this insightful walking tour. Explore the rich history and vibrant cultural tapestry of one of the city’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, guided by a local expert deeply rooted in the community.

Begin with an introduction to the neighbourhood’s past, highlighting its evolution from a former landfill to a thriving hub of creativity and resilience. As you walk, you’ll see stunning street art that captures the spirit and struggles of the residents, each piece telling a story of recovery and pride.

Visit the Moravia Cultural Center, a beacon of community and artistic expression designed by the renowned architect Rogelio Salmona. This architectural gem hosts a myriad of activities that enrich the local culture, from theatre and photography to dance and music.

Experience firsthand how Moravia has turned its challenges into a vibrant community space alive with cultural, social, and artistic endeavors. Learn about the innovative initiatives that have propelled its urban revitalization, making Moravia a symbol of transformation and a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people.

Overnight: Hotel Boutique Quinta Ladera (or similar)
Meals: B/L/-

Medellin, Colombia

DAY 8: WE DON’T TALK ABOUT ESCOBAR TOUR + INTUITIVE CUISINE

We dont talk about Pablo Escobar Tour – Start Time: 09:00 – Duration 6 hrs.

This is the real story beyond Narcos and Griselda Tv Shows. Hear from multiple standpoints of locals how Medellin has endured through its dark times, the factors that supported its rebirth, and how the cocaine boom has conditioned politics, armed conflict, social norms and even fashion.

Plot twist alert! This tour was designed to bring to light the B side of the narcos story that was never told by popular TV series, grounded in actual facts of the story of the narco phenomenon of Colombia. This tour is not like the regular Pablo Escobar tours – the narrative and the stops that are visited focus on bringing you on a journey through the whole context of the narcotraffic emergence and how the problems are still present today. You will understand the impacts on the environment and society, and how the deep wound after the infamous war on drugs has been defining for the resiliency and the whole social transformation that has made Colombia internationally known for. This four-hour tour will take place in the center-east of Medellin. We will walk through multiple stops that will help us show different narratives of the story, using Metrocable, Medellin’s innovative public transport system and stopping at various places of interest to understand the city and society transformation, like Parque de la Inflexion, Miraflores Sport Unit, Public Library El Pinar, and the Memory Museum of Medellin.

To finish the tour, we will visit Medellin’s House of Memory museum. This counts with interactive exhibitions that will bring to the conversation the voices of the victims of the drug war in Colombia, and we will learn about the radical positive change the country has had in recent years, and how that came about.

Intuitive Cuisine – Our Last Dinner Together – Start Time: 19:00 – Duration 3 hrs.

Savour Colombian culture and cuisine with our Intuitive Cuisine experience in Medellín. Start with a Viche cocktail, then delight in a four-course tasting menu showcasing native ingredients. Engage in a gastro-pedagogical journey, exploring the intersection of food, health, and the environment.
Discover the essence of Colombian culture and cuisine with our Intuitive Cuisine experience in Medellín. Food has allowed us to connect with countless individuals, and through this, we have crafted sensitive learning experiences designed to amaze with every bite. This journey through Colombia’s knowledge and flavors aims to raise awareness about traditional wisdom, local high-nutritional-density foods, and how to incorporate them into our daily lives.

Your experience begins with a welcome cocktail featuring the ancestral drink Viche. You’ll then embark on a four-course tasting menu that highlights the rich diversity of Colombian cuisine. Each dish is carefully crafted to showcase native ingredients and traditional flavors, providing a deep connection to Colombia’s culinary heritage.

Throughout the experience, you will engage in a gastro-pedagogical setting where you’ll explore native foods and seeds. Activities will focus on the intersection of food, health, and the environment, emphasizing the importance of well-being, cooperative teamwork, healthy environments, and regenerative cultures.

Guided by a bilingual facilitator, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Colombia’s culinary traditions and the nutritional value of local foods. This unique experience not only tantalizes your taste buds but also enriches your knowledge, leaving you with a lasting impression of Colombia’s gastronomic heritage.

Overnight: Hotel Boutique Quinta Ladera (or similar)

Meals: B/-/D

Colombia Birding Tour - Cock of the Rock

DAY 9: FAREWELL TO COLOMBIA – DEPARTURE OR EXTEND YOUR COLOMBIA TRIP

Unfortunately, our time together in Colombia has come to an end. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. 

If you’d like to extend your stay in Colombia, please let us know. 

Thank you for visiting Colombia! 

Option to extend to other parts of Colombia – Contact us for options.

  • 8 nights accommodation based on double/twin occupancy (single rooms upgrade upon request- additional cost)
  • Guidance from English speaking guides
  • All transportation as per itinerary (domestic flights, vehicles for excursions, transfers, etc)
  • Meals noted in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
  • Entrances as per itinerary
  • Experiences as per itinerary
  • All applicable taxes

Tour Exclusions

  • International Flights (can be arranged through us nicola@finisterra.ca)
  • Mandatory travel medical insurance and optional cancellation insurance (can be arranged through us nicola@finisterra.ca)
  • Beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Items of personal nature
  • Services and entrances not mentioned above
  • Passport, vaccinations, and visa fees
  • Tips/Gratuities for guides, housekeeping, service staff, drivers, etc.

IMPORTANT NOTES

PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary is subject to change. Although we always do our best to stick to the itinerary, due to the ever-changing nature of Colombia, activities, hotels, and visits are subject to change due to forces beyond our control.

FLIGHTS: Please do not purchase your flights until this tour is confirmed.

PASSPORTS: Must be valid for at least 6 months upon return date to your home country. Proper documentation is the responsibility of each traveller.

VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Responsibility of the traveller.

Travel Insurance

Cancellation, Travel, Flight, and Health insurance are required and are the responsibility of the participant to research and secure the appropriate coverage. Click HERE for a Travel Insurance Quote or please email nicola@finisterra.ca for a quote.

Check with your local travel agent /insurance provider/health plan for advice about traveling overseas.

Waiver Form

All participants will be required to sign a Waiver Form prior to departure.

Meet Claudia Laroye

Travel Writer • Editor • Storyteller • World Traveller • Morocco Writing Retreat Host

Claudia Laroye - Colombia Retreat from Caribbean to the Andes

Claudia Laroye is a seasoned travel writer, editor, and storyteller with a passion for meaningful journeys and the written word. As the host of Finisterra’s Morocco Writing Retreat, she brings over a decade of experience in sharing the transformative power of travel through compelling narratives.

Based in Vancouver, Canada, Claudia is the Founding Editor of the award-winning Claudia Travels travel site (formerly The Travelling Mom) and serves as the adventure travel columnist for JourneyWoman. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications, where she explores the intersection of culture, adventure, and human connection.

Claudia’s love for travel began in childhood — her parents met while working for a Canadian airline, and early adventures to Europe, Hawaii, and California ignited a lifelong curiosity about the world. Today, she shares that passion with others through her writing and her retreats, which are designed to inspire creativity, reflection, and personal growth.

At home, Claudia lives with her husband, their two grown sons (both avid travelers), and their beloved rescue dog, Zuzu. She believes travel is the ultimate gift — one that keeps giving through the stories we tell and the perspectives we gain.

Through the Morocco Writing Retreat, Claudia invites participants to slow down, immerse themselves in a rich cultural landscape, and transform their travel experiences into powerful written expressions.

SAMPLE HOTELS (subject to change before this Colombia Tour is confirmed)

CARTAGENA – Hotel Mood Matuna (or similar)

MEDELLIN – Hotel Boutique Quinta Ladera (or similar)

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Even though we wish you a flawless trip, things can happen, especially nowadays. Make sure you are prepared with a Travel Insurance policy that is right for you. Finisterra recommends Manulife Insurance or John Hancock Please feel free to ask us about Trip Cancellation & Interruption Insurance, Cancel for Any Reason Policies, Travel Medical Insurance, or any other questions you may have.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CANADIANS

Travel with confidence knowing that you’re covered with Manulife Insurance.

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TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR AMERICANS – JOHN HANCOCK

Explore the world, stress-free, when you book travel insurance with John Hancock International.

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WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

At Finisterra Travel we help you discover, push personal boundaries, and explore the unknown.

We are super passionate about sustainable, transformational, and adventure travel. Definitely not “armchair travellers”, we have firsthand experience of where you’ll be heading. No one wants to feel like a tourist which is why when we plan a custom travel experience for you, we strive to make your adventure as authentic as possible. We offer an array of Small Group Adventures & Custom Trips, and have something for every type of traveller.

Our unique itineraries are designed to best showcase some of our favourite destinations around Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, North America, and Europe. All itineraries are fully-customizable. Not your typical online travel agency, nor are we quite a tour operator, we are international travel designers with a flair for unique experiences. We’d love to hear from you!


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