Shake your body, baby, do Taganga!

Sometimes your fondest memories of a place are of something seemingly inconsequential. Northern Colombia is blessed with beautiful national parks, decent beaches and wonderful old cities. But while in the tiny fishing village of Tanganga, all of that took a back seat to banana and Oreo milkshakes (with a splash of rum).

But let's be realistic here. Taganga is certainly no heaven on earth. While decades ago it may have been some hidden little gem, is is most certainly not hidden anymore. During the busy season foreign tourists end up here in droves. But their number pale in comparison to the onslaught of domestic, Colombian, tourists that invade the tiny strip of sand on weekends. This is most definitely not some idyllic Caribbean getaway. Night club thump-thump there way through the night. Boats full of either fish or more likely tourist power their way to and from the shore like breaking waves. The minority of accommodation choice have sea view and most are a sweltering trek uphill. Diving is above average in the area, but with many school of questionable reputations. The town consists of 1 1/2 streets with a coupe overpriced restaurants. But the shakes are great.

On the plus side, Taganga is right on the edge of Tayrona National Park,

one of the country's finest. This is one of the more popular jumping off points to the Cuidad Perdida (lost city), Colombia's answer to Machu Picchu. And there are a couple cute little walks along the shore to less busy beaches and villages. Although anyone with a fear of heights may not want to attempt the walks as they are on the very edge of the cliffs. And in recent years, thefts have been reported. An alternative is to hire a boat. But Taganga is about getting into the groove, man. Growing out your hair, listening to some reggae and chilling in a hammock. And my personal favourite, knocking back a yummy banana & Oreo milkshake like an ambrosia of the Gods.

Getting to Taganga is a piece of cake. Mini-bus seem to constantly flow from Carrera 5 in Santa Marta. It takes about 15 minutes and costs a mere C$1,200. The ride is quite lovely.

Although the are a few hidden beaches in Tayrona that are worth a postcard, generally beaches in Northern Colombia aren't something to write home about. But if in the area and looking for some seaside action, Taganga is likely your best bet.