population: 0.5 million

extension: 306 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Montería, Colombia and interested in visiting museums, I would suggest checking out the Museo del Caribe in Barranquilla. It is about 2 hours away by car and features exhibitions on the culture and history of the Caribbean coast of Colombia. If you're looking for something closer, you might also want to visit the Museo Antropológico y de Arte Contemporáneo in Sincelejo, which is about an hour and a half away and has collections of pre-Columbian artifacts as well as contemporary art.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Montería, Colombia according to local people are:

1. Bistec a Caballo: A dish made with steak, rice, plantains, and a fried egg on top.

2. Bollo de Yuca: A steamed dough made from grated yucca (cassava) that is typically served as a side dish.

3. Carimañolas: A type of stuffed fritter made from mashed yucca filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

4. Chicharrón: Deep-fried pork belly or pork rinds that are crispy and flavorful.

5. Mondongo: A hearty soup made with tripe, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables.

6. Sancocho de Pescado: A fish-based soup made with coconut milk, plantains, yucca, and other ingredients.

7. Empanadas: Fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

8. Arroz con coco: A sweet and savory rice dish made with coconut milk, raisins, and other ingredients.

9. Frijoles con garra: A stew made with beans, pig's feet, and other ingredients.

10. Arepas: A cornmeal cake that can be eaten plain or filled with cheese, meat, or other ingredients.

Activities

There are many fun activities that local people enjoy in Montería, Colombia. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Mercado del Sur: This is a vibrant market where you can find everything from fresh produce to traditional souvenirs.

2. Explore the Parque de la Ronda: This is a popular park with beautiful gardens and playgrounds for kids.

3. Attend a football match: Football (soccer) is a beloved sport in Colombia and attending a match can be an exciting experience.

4. Take a boat tour of the Sinú River: This river is an important part of Montería's history and culture, and a boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

5. Enjoy some live music: Montería has a lively music scene, and you can often find live performances at bars and clubs around the city.

6. Try traditional food: The cuisine of Montería is delicious and unique. Be sure to try dishes like "mojarra frita" (fried fish) and "mondongo" (tripe soup) while you're there.