Hispanic Heritage Month Culture Highlight: Laura Villanueva

My name is Laura. I was born in a wonderful country in South America. It is located in the corner of the continent with the privilege of having 2 oceans: Pacific and Atlantic; called Colombia. It is a country with amazing biodiversity due to its geographical location, its different thermal floors, variations in climate, its 3 mountain ranges, its abundant natural resources such as water and fertile soils that give it the possibility of being home to many species. One of its greatest assets is the variety of ecosystems, we proudly say, we are privileged to the world, and that is why we oxygenate the planet with the Amazon to fill it with life. Did you know that Colombia ranks 1st place in diversity of birds, butterflies, and orchids; 2nd place in diversity of plants, amphibians, and fishes; 3rd place in diversity of reptiles and palms; 4th place in mammals; and not to mention its mineral resources, Colombia is the world's largest producer of emeralds. It is also the developing country that has made the most progress in providing the population with accessible internet. The ethnic multiplicity makes Colombia a diverse country because of the cultural variety that represents its people, its gastronomy, and traditional festivities. I invite you to have the pleasure of touring Colombia and enjoy the beauty of its landscapes, it is a spectacle to observe its green mountains, valleys, green plains and the generosity, kindness, hospitality, and joy of its inhabitants. Colombia with its charm awaits you!