Bucaramanga is a medium sized city, home to nearly 1 million inhabitants . It’s a major commercial hub in northeastern Colombia, playing a significant role in trade between Colombia and Venezuela. Palonegro Airport (BGA) is located about 45 minutes from town near Lebrija. Domestic flights include Bogotá, Medellín, Cúcuta and Yopal, and it recently started its first international flights to Panama City, with renovations underway to further expand its flights.The region is largely agricultural, so the food is fresh and fabulous. It still has a small colonial area, some lovely parks and squares and fine dining and nightlife. It is also an important transport hub, connecting Bogotá with the main border with Venezuela, Cúcuta, and with the Atlantic coast.For shopping local crafts, there’s El Bosque; and a mall for other goods.The city was founded in 1622 and developed around what is today the Parque García Rovira.