Colombia is enjoying a tourism renaissance, thanks to an improved security situation, with the country’s tourist growth rising three times faster than the world average, a Toronto audience was told Thursday. Maria Guzman of the Colombian Trade Commission in Toronto said the country is seeing 42 hotels — many belonging to chains like Marriott — open this year and major cruise lines are calling at the country, a reflection of their confidence in it. Tourists can opt for Caribbean-fronting Cartagena, which has an old quarter that’s received UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and other locales, including the coffee region, gaining insights into the production of a crop almost synonymous with the country. Panamanian carrier Copa, which serves Toronto, also flies to 11 Colombian cities. Seen here are Harish Shroff, Indus Travels. Gary Murtagh, ElderTreks. Raul Suarez, Wandertravel. Maria Guzman. Rosa Cabral, Martour International. Laura Marin, Copa. Julio Valencia, Andina Travel. Oviel Falcon, Majestic Tours. Lorena Suarez-Balkowski. and Yolanda Molinuevo Ortega, Copa.