Manizales is a city in central Colombia, capital of the Caldas department, near the Nevado del Ruiz volcano. Nowadays the city is the main centre for the production of Colombian coffee and an important hub for higher educational institutions. It has a really European, small city feel to it, like being in Switzerland or the Alps. In winter it rains a lot (almost every day, but not for too long), though there are also very dry days in summer. The air is always fresh and the temperature a little cool, but it can be balmy depending on which part of city you're visiting. The city has two main plazas, Plaza Bolívar and Parque Caldas, where people can sit and chat with friends, or shop and people-watch in the afternoons and evenings. Plaza Bolívar contains the State Government of Caldas administration buildings, as Manizales city is also the seat of Caldas state.

Around and closeby
The region is famous for its hot water springs and resorts such as Termales del Otoño, Termales del Santa Rosa and Termales del Nevado. Each contains not only hot pools where the public gather to soak and relax, but many levels of hotel accommodations.

Sightseeing
The city has a large eco-park called Los Yarumos, named after a large tree. It contains beautiful views overlooking the city and affords views of mountains and a volcano. There are many hiking trails and nature walks, and a just completed indoor ice skating rink, which has a great music system! Also, there is a large conference centre and restaurants. The city has a municipal auditorium and theatres where you can attend concerts, operas, and listen to symphonic music.

Getting there
The city is served by La Nubia Airport, 10 minutes from downtown by taxi, that receives domestic flights from Bogotá and other major cities in Colombia. Currently buses run in and out of Manizales' main station, Terminal de Transporte de Manizales. The station is clean and has standard amenities. Multiple bus companies have regular routes to destinations around the country. There are regular buses from Medellín, Cali, Bogotá, Salamina, Armenia and Pereira.