Pasto: The Heart of Culture and Nature in Colombia

• HelloHola
  [O-la]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [A-dios]
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  [No]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [Por fa-vor/De na-da]
• Thank youGracias
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• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [Per-don/Lo cien-to]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [Co-mo es-tas]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [Bie-en. Ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
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• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [No en-tien-do]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [Me gus-ta-ria ber el me-nu, por fa-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [No co-mo car-ne]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
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• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [Me gus-ta-ria pa-gar, por fa-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [A-yu-da]
• Go away!¡Vete!
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• Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
  [Ya-ma a la Po-li-cia]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
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• I'm lostEstoy perdido
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• I'm illEstoy enfermo
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• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [Me gus-ta-ria com-prar]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
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• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
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• That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
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• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [Pue-des ba-jar el pre-cio]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
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• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [Es la u-na]
• Half past (10)Media hora (10)
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• MorningMañana
  [Ma-nya-na]
• AfternoonTarde
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• YesterdayAyer
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• TodayHoy
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• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
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• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (para ....)
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Before the arrival of the Spanish, the region of Pasto was inhabited by the indigenous Pasto and Quillacinga people. These groups developed sophisticated agricultural practices and maintained extensive trade networks with neighboring peoples. Archaeological findings reveal their rich cultural heritage, including pottery, textiles, and ceremonial objects.

In 1537, the Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Belalcázar arrived in the region, claiming it for the Spanish Crown. The indigenous people resisted fiercely, leading to prolonged conflicts. Eventually, the Spanish established control and founded the city of San Juan de Pasto in 1539. The city became a strategic colonial outpost due to its location on the route between Quito and Popayán.

During the colonial era, Pasto grew as an administrative and religious center. The establishment of churches, convents, and schools marked its importance in the region. The city's architecture from this period reflects the Spanish influence, with notable structures like the Cathedral of Pasto and the Church of San Juan Bautista. The local economy was based on agriculture, cattle raising, and trade.

On April 7, 1822, the Battle of Bomboná took place near Pasto during the Colombian War of Independence. Simon Bolívar's forces clashed with the royalist troops led by Basilio García. Despite being a tactical draw, the battle was strategically significant. Bolívar's forces eventually pushed through, leading to the eventual liberation of Pasto from Spanish rule.

After independence, Pasto continued to play a vital role in the newly formed Republic of Colombia. In 1904, Pasto was designated as the capital of the Nariño Department, named after the independence hero Antonio Nariño. The city saw growth in infrastructure and education, with the establishment of the University of Nariño in 1904, promoting regional development.

The Carnival of Blacks and Whites, or 'Carnaval de Negros y Blancos,' is one of Pasto's most renowned cultural events, declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009. Celebrated annually from January 2 to 7, the carnival features parades, music, dance, and colorful costumes, reflecting the city's diverse cultural heritage and communal spirit.

In recent decades, Pasto has undergone significant modernization. Improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education have contributed to the city's growth. The development of tourism, driven by its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, has become a key economic sector. Pasto continues to preserve its historical legacy while embracing contemporary advancements.

Pasto is located in the southwestern part of Colombia. The nearest international airport is Antonio Nariño Airport (PSO), approximately 35 kilometers from the city center. From Bogotá, you can take a direct flight to Antonio Nariño Airport, which takes around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, long-distance buses operate from major Colombian cities such as Bogotá, Cali, and Medellín to Pasto, though travel times can be lengthy, often exceeding 10 hours.

Pasto has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Buses are the most economical way to get around the city, with routes covering most areas. Taxis are also readily available and relatively inexpensive, but it is advisable to use registered taxi services for safety. For those looking to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car can be a convenient option. However, be aware that road conditions can vary.

The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Pasto, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. Be cautious when withdrawing cash and use ATMs located in secure areas such as shopping malls or banks.

While Pasto is generally a safe city for tourists, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated or poorly lit areas. High-crime areas targeting tourists include the outskirts of the city and certain neighborhoods like La Rosa and Agualongo. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.

In case of emergency, dial 123 for immediate assistance. The main hospital in Pasto is Hospital Universitario Departamental de Nariño, which provides comprehensive medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies are available throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always act respectfully in churches and religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as cuy (guinea pig) and empanadas. Don't refuse food offerings, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Pasto like a local, visit the local markets such as Plaza de Nariño where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Colombian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about Pasto's history and culture. Don't miss the Carnaval de Negros y Blancos, a UNESCO-recognized festival held every January. For a unique experience, visit the Galeras Volcano for breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.