PROVIDENCIA ISLA, COLOMBIA
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Seemingly lost in place and
time, blissfully bypassed by frantic mass tourism and resort development, the Colombian
island of Old Providence and its sister island, St. Catalina, are a cherished paradise of
beauty, peace and authenticity; a label not usually associated with a Caribbean location.
These precious jewels lie 150 miles east off the coast of Nicaragua and 52 Nautical miles
north of San Andres, a 20 minute local flight. The islands history is rich in folklore, thanks to famous pirates Francis Drake and Henry Morgan, who used the islands as a hide-out. The 17th century West Indies, Spanish and English influences are still evident in the local population of nearly 5,000. English and Spanish are both spoken. Laid back and unassuming, the islanders are not in the least bit interested in resort development. A selection of small, comfortable guest houses and hotels accommodate some 800 guests. A number of restaurants serve local and international cuisine.
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| The combined landmass comprises 17 square
kilometers and is of volcanic origin. The hills are covered with lush vegetation and
littered with natural springs; the ideal environment for wilderness hiking and horseback
riding. The white sandy beaches offer safe swimming and snorkeling. For the more
adventurous, there is sports fishing and scuba diving along the 28 miles of continuous
reefs. The sunken galleons in the vicinity of the island, the unpolluted azure waters, the
protected reefs, fantastic clarity and an abundance of sea life, provide endless
opportunities for discovery and adventure for divers and snorklers alike.
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| PROPOSAL FOR TOURIST DEVELOPMENT The islands only tour operator contacted ATP last year for assistance in promoting the island. Recognizing this unique and unspoiled island as a heaven for divers, the campaign is designed initially
ATP is actively seeking funding through grants or sponsors, to cover the cost of the program. Full credit will be extended to participating sponsors, and where feasible, logos, products or other promotional aspects, will be incorporated in the publicity material. The promotion's components - a unique destination, diving, adventure, can be beneficial to
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