Colombia 360°: Backpacking Edition




Itinerary
Vibrant streets, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee on every corner, dramatic mountain landscapes and the Caribbean coast set the scene for this backpacking adventure through Colombia. We begin in Bogotá, a capital city that thrives on contrast: energetic without being overwhelming, where street art, local markets and historic neighbourhoods define daily life.
Our journey then takes a classic backpacker turn as we board a Colombian overnight bus – a true rite of passage – and wake up in Medellín. Once known for its turbulent past, the city today is dynamic, creative and forward-looking. We’ll explore its most characterful neighbourhoods, learn about its remarkable transformation and, of course, refuel with a well-earned arepa or two. From here, we fly north to Santa Marta, before heading inland to Minca, a peaceful retreat nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Surrounded by lush greenery, coffee plantations and waterfalls, this is a place where time slows down and nature takes centre stage. Between gentle hikes and sweeping views, it’s easy to feel worlds away from everyday life.
Back on the road, a local bus brings us to Cartagena, a city rich in history and atmosphere. Enclosed by colonial walls and filled with pastel-hued streets, music and movement, it opens directly onto the Caribbean Sea. This is where the pace softens and the mood shifts: boat trips, clear waters, relaxed beach time and lively evenings round off the experience. It’s a true backpacking journey – authentic, varied and best enjoyed together.


Welcome to Colombia!
Check in
Roundtrip flights are not included in the package, so you can choose from where and when you want to fly.
We arrive in Bogotá, where our journey begins among the street art and historic streets of La Candelaria.
Check into the hotel and we meet at the welcome meeting, here's how the meetup works! These first hours in Bogotá are all about finding our rhythm, easing into the local atmosphere and getting comfortable with our new surroundings. It’s the ideal introduction to Colombia, a country we’re sure will win us over as the journey continues.

Bogotá: between cable cars, murals, and an overnight bus
Bogotá from above: A city without limits
Today we dive properly into Bogotá. And what better way to get a sense of this vast, energetic and endlessly fascinating city than from above? We take the cable car up to Cerro de Monserrate. The altitude will make itself known and we may be slightly out of breath, but the panoramic view over the city stretching across the valley makes every step worthwhile. From up here, Bogotá feels immense, layered and full of stories waiting to be discovered.
Art, history and the soul of the city
In the afternoon, we explore La Candelaria, the historic heart of the capital. We wander through narrow streets lined with colonial buildings, where almost every corner feels photo-worthy. The neighbourhood’s murals form a true open-air gallery, showcasing the work of some of South America’s most influential street artists: bold, expressive and deeply rooted in social and political themes. While we’re here, there’s time to choose between two cultural highlights: the Gold Museum, essential for understanding Colombia’s pre-colonial heritage, or the Botero Museum, dedicated to the country’s most iconic artist.
As evening approaches, the pace shifts once more. We make our way to the bus station, backpacks packed and snacks at the ready. Tonight, we board the overnight bus bound for Medellín. This is where the backpacking adventure truly begins.

Medellin and Comuna 13
Comuna 13
After our overnight bus journey, we arrive at the station in Medellín: slightly sleep-deprived, but buzzing with excitement. A short transfer takes us to the hotel, where we leave our backpacks before heading out to explore one of South America’s most surprising and dynamic cities.
Medellín is more than just a destination; it’s a powerful example of transformation. Over the next two days, we’ll explore the city using its most iconic modes of transport – the metro, tram and cable car – all symbols of the social and urban change that has reshaped daily life here. Today, however, we begin with a place that goes far beyond any checklist highlight: Comuna 13.
Once known as one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in the country, Comuna 13 has become a vibrant maze of colourful murals, outdoor escalators and powerful stories of resilience. During our walking tour, we’ll learn how this area has been transformed through art, community effort and determination. This is where the so-called “Medellín miracle” truly comes to life.
We’ll also have the opportunity to support a local social project dedicated to children from the Comuna. This safe space offers them the chance to play, study and grow away from the challenges of the barrio. We’ll meet the founder, hear about her mission and spend time with the young people at the centre — whether that’s chatting, playing football or simply sharing a moment together. It’s a simple experience, but one that often leaves a lasting impression.
As the day comes to an end, we’re left with a mix of emotions and a deeper connection to Medellín’s energy and spirit.

The streets of Medellín
Urban life, art and local vibes
Today, Medellín gives us complete freedom. If we stay in the city, we can wander through lively squares such as Plaza Botero, famous for its oversized sculptures and perfect photo opportunities, and explore neighbourhoods like Ciudad del Río, where offices, green spaces and street food blend seamlessly. A walk through the pedestrian area around the Museo de Antioquia immerses us in street art, live music and tempting aromas, capturing that distinctive urban-chic atmosphere that defines Medellín.
Guatapé: Colombia’s most colourful escape
Alternatively, we can dedicate the entire day to Guatapé, often considered the most colourful town in Colombia. Just outside the village stands El Peñón de Guatapé, also known as Piedra del Peñol, a towering granite monolith and recognised national monument. Reaching the top requires climbing several hundred steps, but the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view over lakes and islands — widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country. And since we’re here, there’s only one thing to do: climb.
Whichever option we choose, today is about shaping the experience around our interests and enjoying it together as a group.
In the evening, we return to Medellín, with time to experience the city’s nightlife and see yet another side of its vibrant character.

Minca: jungle, waterfalls and adventure
From Medellín to Minca
Today we say goodbye to Medellín and fly north to Santa Marta, where a transfer takes us straight into the hills towards Minca, our base surrounded by nature.
From the moment we arrive, the pace shifts noticeably. Traffic noise fades away, replaced by forest sounds, birdsong and a calm that reminds us why we travel in the first place.
For the next two days, we immerse ourselves in the lush landscape of the Sierra Nevada. There’s time to reach hidden waterfalls, follow jungle paths alive with butterflies, visit a local coffee farm — where the aroma is unforgettable — and take in views so vast they hardly seem real.
Life slows down naturally here. We wake up with the daylight, relax in hammocks, share conversations and listen to the rhythm of the surrounding jungle — a constant, living backdrop to our days.
Whether we choose to hike, swim in natural pools, relax or simply enjoy coffee grown just a few metres away, Minca will help us reconnect with a slower, more grounded rhythm.
It’s the ideal pause before heading towards the coast and letting the adventure continue by the sea.

From Minca to Cartagena
Discovering Cartagena
It’s time to hit the road again. We leave the tranquillity of Minca behind and head down to Santa Marta, where we board the bus towards Cartagena, the undisputed queen of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
From the moment we arrive, the atmosphere shifts. Colours feel brighter, the air warmer, and music drifts through the streets. Even the city’s colonial walls seem to carry their own energy.
The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the historic centre, a maze of narrow streets where it’s almost impossible not to stop every few steps for a photo. Pastel-coloured houses in shades of yellow, blue and pink, flower-filled balconies, artisan shops and the scent of fresh fruit fill the air. Cartagena invites us to slow down and enjoy the moment.
There’s time to browse small shops for souvenirs, sample local dishes — with seafood a guaranteed highlight — or simply wander through squares and alleys at an unhurried pace, letting the city’s colours and rhythm set the tone.
After days immersed in nature and adventure, this first taste of the Caribbean feels effortless and refreshing. And when evening arrives, one thing becomes clear: Cartagena has no intention of calling it an early night.

Tierra Bomba: our Caribbean day
Sailing towards Tierra Bomba
Today we focus on the essentials: sea, relaxation and no schedules to follow. From Cartagena, we set sail towards Tierra Bomba, where a beach club awaits — the kind of place designed to make the outside world feel very far away.
As soon as we arrive on the island, the atmosphere changes. Pale sand, water shifting from turquoise to deep blue, and laid-back music set the tone for a day that’s all about slowing down. Everyone can choose their own rhythm: swimming in clear waters, relaxing on a sun lounger with an ocean view, enjoying a tropical cocktail or sampling freshly prepared dishes from the restaurant — or simply a bit of everything.
What makes Tierra Bomba special is the balance between calm and energy. You can unwind under palm trees or join in with activities, knowing that the day will naturally unfold at an easy, enjoyable pace.
In the afternoon, we return to Cartagena feeling more relaxed, slightly sun-kissed and fully tuned into the Caribbean mood. And as evening falls, Cartagena’s historic centre by night once again proves why it’s so captivating.

Cartagena: Caribbean vibes, salsa, and dreamy islands
Explore Getsemaní, Cartagena
We spend the final days of our journey enjoying Cartagena at the easiest and most natural pace possible — unhurried and fully present. Here, every street has its own rhythm, and we’re free to follow whichever one feels right.
We can wander through Getsemaní, the city’s most authentic neighbourhood. Murals cover the walls, streets are alive with music and conversation, and small bars and open squares fill with locals dancing well into the evening. It’s the perfect place to feel part of everyday life in Cartagena, even if only for a short time.
For those keen to try something new, there’s the option to join a salsa class. No experience required — the focus is on enjoying the music, moving together and embracing the Caribbean rhythm.
Rosario Islands
And, of course, the sea calls once again. A boat trip takes us to the Rosario Islands, a picture-perfect archipelago with remarkably clear water and white sandy beaches. Swimming, snorkelling, relaxing and switching off completely make for an ideal way to round off the journey.
Whether it’s colourful streets, live music or one last swim in the Caribbean, these final days are about enjoying the moment. Cartagena has a way of doing that — effortless, generous and unforgettable.

Goodbye Colombia
Check out
What's included
- 9 nights in a hostel/guesthouse in a shared room with a private bathroom
1 night on an overnight bus from Bogota to Medellin on day 2
All breakfasts (except for the third day)
"Must-see": a walking tour with a private local guide to discover the history of what was once the most dangerous neighbourhood in the world, the famous Comuna 13
- Daily entry to a beach club on Tierra Bomba Island, right in the heart of the Caribbean Sea.
Medical and baggage insurance - (coverage limits by destination country/region - €10,000 Italy, €20,000 Europe, €30,000 World, €50,000 USA/Canada)
What's not included
Return flights to and from the destination
Meals and drinks where not specified
All the extras you'll want to buy and manage to fit in your backpack :)
- Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section
Money pot
The amount to pay the coordinator will be around £220/€250. The amount of the Money Pot will vary based on the number of activities and extras that the group decides to do.
- Ground transportation
- Travel Coordinator's Money Pot
- The activities and extras that all participants have agreed to do, plus the coordinator's share.
Additional info
- Accommodation
Hostels, local hotels in shared rooms depending on availability (double, triple, quadruple). The private room option is available for some departures.
- TransportLocal minivans, public buses (including an overnight one), and domestic flights.
- PassportFor this trip, you **must provide a passport photo at least 45 days before departure**, and your passport needs to **be valid for at least 6 months from your return date to Italy**. This allows us to proceed with booking all your travel services. **If it's not provided or the passport doesn't meet the validity requirement, we won't be able to confirm your spot on the trip.** You can upload the image in your reserved area after booking.
- Private Room Option Show all details
Why WeRoad
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Small groups, on average 11 people
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Free cancellation with 100% refund up to 31 days before departure
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Book with a £/€100 deposit
The travel coordinators
Find your flight
For this trip, we recommend arriving and departing from these airports.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
About this trip
This journey begins at Bogotá. On the first day, we meet at 18:00.
Your Coordinator will add you to the WhatsApp group for your trip about 15 days before departure.
It’s a great way to start getting to know your travel mates, receive more details about the first day’s meeting point, and ask any pre-departure questions you might have.
This journey ends at Cartagena. On the last day, you are free to leave at any time, so whether you need to book a flight, a train, or wish to continue the journey on your own, you can organize your return as you prefer.
For this itinerary, traveling with a backpack is mandatory for logistical reasons and the convenience of the entire group - including yourself! Trolleys, bulky suitcases, or hard luggage are not allowed. The Travel Coordinator will provide guidance on the ideal baggage before departure via the WhatsApp group.
About Colombia
If you are a UK citizen, to find out the entry requirements for Colombia, you can check this informational page from our partner Sherpa. If you need a visa, you can apply for it through Sherpa. If you are not a UK citizen, you can still use Sherpa by changing the nationality in the 'Passport' section.
Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Colombia – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!
- UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
- US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.
Colombia is in the Colombia Time Zone, which is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5). Colombia does not observe daylight saving time. If it's 12pm in the UK, it will be 7am in Colombia. If it's 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 12pm in Colombia as both share the same time zone. However, if you're in Los Angeles, USA, and it's 12pm, it will be 3pm in Colombia.
Colombia uses the Colombian Peso (COP). The exchange rates are approximately:
- 1 GBP to 5,000 COP
- 1 USD to 4,000 COP
- 1 EUR to 4,500 COP
You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, or airports. Always check for the latest rates and compare options for the best deal.
In Colombia, you can pay using cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Most places accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or rural areas. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing Colombian pesos. Keep in mind that some places might charge a fee for card transactions, so having a mix of payment options is advisable.
Tipping in Colombia is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a service charge of around 10 percent is often added to your bill, but it is customary to leave an additional tip if you are happy with the service. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is a nice gesture. Hotel staff and tour guides would appreciate a small tip too. Always check your bill to see if a service charge is included before deciding on the extra tip.
In Colombia, you will find that Wi-Fi is widely available in most urban areas, especially in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. However, if you plan to explore rural areas or need constant connectivity, we recommend you buy a local SIM card. Major providers like Claro, Movistar, and Tigo offer affordable prepaid plans with data. You can purchase these SIM cards at airports, convenience stores, or provider shops. If your phone supports it, consider an e-SIM for even greater convenience.
In Colombia, the official language is Spanish. You'll find that most Colombians are friendly and helpful, and knowing a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your travel experience. Here are some useful expressions you might hear or use:
- Hello: Hola
- Thank you: Gracias
- Please: Por favor
- Excuse me: Perdón
- How much is it?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
- Do you speak English?: ¿Hablas inglés?
While English is understood in some tourist areas, it's always helpful to have a translation app or a phrasebook handy.
In Colombia, you'll find that they use Type A and Type B plugs. These are the same as those used in the US, with two flat parallel pins and sometimes an additional grounding pin. The electrical voltage is 110V, and the frequency is 60Hz. If your devices aren't compatible, bring a universal adapter to ensure you can charge and use your electronics smoothly.
The main religion in Colombia is Roman Catholicism. It's important to note that Colombians celebrate several religious holidays, which are widely observed throughout the country. Some key holidays include:
- Holy Week (Semana Santa): A major religious event celebrated with processions and events in the week leading up to Easter Sunday.
- Christmas (Navidad): Celebrated with various festivities, including the Novena de Aguinaldos, which are gatherings for prayer and singing in the nine days before Christmas.
When visiting churches or attending religious events, modest dress is appreciated, although there's no strict dress code.
When packing for Colombia, consider its diverse climates from tropical coasts to cooler highlands. Here's a practical list for your backpack:
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Clothing:
- Lightweight shirts and shorts
- Long-sleeve shirts and pants for cooler areas
- A light sweater or jacket
- Swimwear
- Raincoat or poncho
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Shoes:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals
- Hiking boots for outdoor adventures
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Accessories and Technology:
- Sunglasses and hat
- Travel adapter (Colombia uses Type A and B plugs)
- Power bank
- Camera or smartphone for photos
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Toiletries and Medication:
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Basic toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo
- Personal medications
- Common travel medication: pain relievers, anti-diarrheal tablets, motion sickness tablets
This list should help you prepare for your Colombian adventure, keeping in mind the varied weather conditions you'll encounter.
Colombia's weather varies greatly depending on the region due to its diverse geography:
- Bogotá (Andean region): Cool and mild throughout the year, with temperatures averaging 14°C to 18°C. The rainy season is from April to May and October to November.
- Medellín (Aburrá Valley): Known as the "City of Eternal Spring," with pleasant temperatures around 22°C to 25°C year-round. Rainy months are April to May and September to November.
- Cartagena (Caribbean coast): Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. The dry season is from December to March, making it a popular time to visit.
- Amazon region: Hot and humid with frequent rain. Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C. The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to September.
The best time to visit Colombia varies by region, but generally, December to March and June to August are favorable for most areas.
About WeRoad
Return international flights are not included on our trips because we want to give you full autonomy and flexibility. You can choose your preferred airline, fly from the airport that works best for you, and decide how many stopovers you want to make along the way.
As flights are not included, you also have more flexibility with your travel dates: you could arrive at your destination a few days early or return home a bit later – or even continue independently to a nearby destination!
An "Available" departure means that the trip isn’t confirmed yet and we’re waiting for a few more travellers to sign up… which could be you!
If you book the trip please wait for it to be confirmed before booking your international flights.
The question of all questions! Here’s some more information:
- The Money Pot is a common fund collected in local currency from all travellers on the trip and managed by your Travel Coordinator.
- It is used to streamline payments for extra activities, goods and services that the whole group decides to do. This guarantees flexibility in choosing activities and excursions at the destination in line with the mood of the group.
- It is typically collected on the first day of the trip in local currency, although at times, the Travel Coordinator may ask for it to be paid before departure.
- You’ll find the Money Pot amount on the website under the section ‘What’s included in the Money Pot’. To find this look for ‘What’s included’, scroll down to ‘Money Pot? Click here’ and you’ll find the details.
- The amount varies depending on the destination chosen.
- It is usually used for group expenses that all travellers decide to take part in, but sometimes if you opt out of an activity it might make more sense for it to come out of the Money Pot. In these cases the Coordinator will return the amount for this activity back to you at the end of the trip.
- It is estimated based on the experience of other groups but can vary depending on what activities your group is keen for. As such, the Travel Coordinator may need to increase the amount during the trip.
- If not all of the Money Pot is spent, the difference will be returned to all travellers at the end of the trip.
- The Money Pot also covers the Travel Coordinator’s share of the activities included in the Money Pot, except for those activities that are free for the Travel Coordinator.
- If you pay in advance for part of the Money Pot before the trip for certain non-refundable optional activities, unfortunately, the amount cannot be refunded if the trip is cancelled.
We offer several payment methods to fit every need:
1. Credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express);
2. Instalment payment with Klarna (you’ll pay for the trip in three equal amounts);
3. PayPal (for selected destinations);
4. Revolut Pay to pay even faster straight from your Revolut account.
Anyone who books a WeRoad trip has the option to cancel or modify the trip – including both the dates and the destination – free of charge up to 31 days before departure. In case of cancellation up to 31 days before departure, you will receive a 100% refund of the WeRoad trip price. If you make a change, a price adjustment will be applied to the new trip chosen – meaning, if the new trip is cheaper, we will refund the difference; if it’s more expensive, you will need to pay the difference.
If you’ve purchased the Flexible Cancellation Option (which you can add in the first step of the booking process), you can request a cancellation or trip change until 8 days before departure. In case of cancellation, you’ll receive a 100% refund of the WeRoad trip price, minus the cost of the Flexible Cancellation option.
How to request a cancellation or change to your trip? Send us an email at [email protected] or a WhatsApp on +447716573700. Please share the booking reference for the trip you want to cancel or change, and, in case of a change, the new trip you would like to join.
For our trips we usually use locally owned accommodation instead of big hotel chains. It’s our favourite way to really experience the local culture and, whenever we can, support the local economy. Typically, you’ll stay in hotels, apartments, guesthouses and hostels with the same standard maintained across all trips in the same destination.
The list of accommodation for your trip will be shared with you by your Travel Coordinator 2-5 days before departure, along with other useful details for your adventure!
Yes! We might not know the flights for everyone else in the group, but there are ways to find out which flights your fellow WeRoaders will be taking.
1. All travellers can share their flight details after booking on their My WeRoad account so that other travellers on the same trip can see these details anonymously.
2. Alternatively you can join our Facebook group: Solo Travellers | WeRoad Community – (here is the extended link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/963298767843213 ) Look for a post about the trip you’re interested in or ask the group admin for help in getting in touch with your future travel companions!
3. If the Coordinator has already been assigned to the trip you’re keen for, you can easily find their Facebook post on the website. Click 'Ask the Coordinator' and follow the link here.
Our groups usually consist of 8–12 travellers, with a minimum of 3–4 and a maximum of 15.
Everyone on our trips speaks English, and travellers join us from across the UK, Europe and beyond. Our trips are open to people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, with an average age of 34 across all trips.
Each group will be joined and led by one of our experienced Travel Coordinators, who’s there to ensure everything runs smoothly and the group feels well-supported.
If you’d like to know more about our typical WeRoad groups do reach out to us on WhatsApp on +44 7716573700.
Yes! If you're curious, you can take a sneak peek at the group before booking.
You’ll find the info in the ‘Group’ section for each trip on the departures page, showing how many WeRoaders have already booked.
Click the little arrow and you’ll even see their gender and ages – but hey, that’s exclusive info, so we’ll ask you to log in or sign up to see that!
For some trips, in the itinerary section, you’ll find the number of nights and the location (not the hotel) where you’ll be spending the night(s). The location shown is the one we usually go for on most trips, but in some cases, you might stay in a nearby town. This will depend on logistics or availability of accommodation.
The list of accommodation for your trip (and therefore also the exact locations) will be shared by your Travel Coordinator 2-5 days before departure, along with other useful information for your adventure!
The WeRoad Travel Coordinator is an experienced and skilled traveller who will be the perfect companion for your trip. They will manage all the logistical aspects of the itinerary like transport, timings, accommodation, restaurant bookings and meeting points, so that you can enjoy the trip without this hassle. They’re there to support the group, ensure everything runs smoothly and will no doubt make the trip a lot of fun along the way too!
The Coordinator will set up a WhatsApp group approximately 2 weeks before departure. This will be the moment to ask any pre-departure questions and get to know the rest of the group! If the trip you are interested in already has a Travel Coordinator assigned, you can contact them before booking. Their details will be on the trip page, or you can search for their name here. After booking, you will find their contact details in your My WeRoad account, under ‘Bookings and Trips’ > ‘Your Upcoming Trips’ > ‘Trip Details’.
Yes, on all our trips you will share a room with other WeRoaders in your group. By default this will be people of the same gender, unless you tick ‘I'm OK with a mixed gender room’ when you book. The bathroom will either be private or shared only with other travellers on the trip. The rooms might be twins, triples, quadruples or multi-share (up to 8 people in exceptional cases), depending on the destination and availability.
You will never share with people from outside of the WeRoad group, except in certain cases for local experiences, which are specifically mentioned in the itinerary or communicated before booking. These typically involve specific nights in unique accommodation like tents, homestays, or camping, offering a more adventurous travel experience in exchange for some comfort.
On some of our trips we can offer a private room for an additional cost. Just tick the ‘Private Room’ option at checkout to get this added. For some of our trips if you book as two travellers together you can add this private room free of charge. Look out for this option at checkout.
Please note that if you do book a private room with a friend/partner this could be either a double or a twin room so please email [email protected] if you have a preference on this.
When you set off on a WeRoad trip, you’re officially a WeRoader – and as we often say, 'once a WeRoader, always a WeRoader'. This means that once you’re part of the community, a little piece of WeRoad will always stay with you.
But you’re not just a WeRoader during your trips, far from it! The community is alive and active all year round: you can stay in touch by following and interacting on our social media channels, like the Facebook group or the Instagram profile. You can also come along to one of our many events that we run in different cities worldwide. Check out and sign up to our events by downloading the WeMeet app here.























