Due to the increase of violent crime in Columbia the US Department of State is warning against travel to the area. The warning also states that it encorages anyone who is traveling to the country to be sure to register with the US Embassy through the State Department’s website (which is always a good idea anyways).
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That being said Columbia is a beautiful country with a rich history and is becoming a popular tourist destination for those who are interested in traveling off the beaten path and prefer places that aren’t overly touristy. Another perk is there is a lot of bang for your buck when visiting Columbia. I did not realize that Columbia has the second largest population in all of South America. It is a large and vast country with a wide array of appeal to travelers.
Beautiful sprawling oceans, rich luscious landscape, unique and delicious foods (especially the bakeries!) and towns so picturesque you will be sure you set foot in Europe. People in Columbia are welcoming and friendly. Edited as of 1/23/2018 the US has dropped it’s travel ban to Columbia and homicide rates have dropped dramatically these past few years following darker periods of civil unrest and conflict. Columbia is becoming one of the next hot travel destinations as Americans and Canadians are waking up to the treasures it has to offer. Traveling to Columbia is definitely do-able but you also have to pack a whole lot of street smarts. To be honest not much more than you would no matter where you travel. Here is a round-up of great tips for those interested in visiting Columbia, South America.
Things to Consider:
-It is wise not to carry around a large amount of cash on you or openly display a lot of expensive camera equipment or laptops. While it is much safer than it used to be, it’s not great to label yourself a target.
-Don’t go to a bar get drunk and start a fight with a Columbian bad mouthing their country or Catholicism. They are very patriotic and also very religious.
-Be careful how you gesture and whistle. Using two fingers when measuring or showing the length of anything is seen to be obscene in Columbian culture. Whistling to get attention is extremely rude and unappreciated.
-Unless you are cool with extremely fake knock-offs don’t buy jewelry off of the street.
-Use good judgement always. If it feels uncomfortable it probably is. Dark alleys, guerrilla zones, isolated areas or anything of the like should be avoided. Also be careful not to trust anyone (except hopefully the person you came with). I say this because it’s always best to be overly cautious.
-Stay in control. Don’t overdo it on the booze and especially on drugs (don’t do drugs kids). It’s easy to be taken advantage of if you are not fully competent.
-Double check purchase prices when using a credit card. It has been rumored that some tourists bills have had extra zeros added to them. Always ask for taxi credentials and don’t let anyone drive off with your luggage
-Don’t dress to impress. Columbia is a casual country that likes to be comfortable (but apparently don’t like shorts). If you are headed for a formal occasion then by all means dress up.
-Do enjoy your trip and be cautious and purposeful but don’t let anxiety ruin your experience!
Happy and safe travels everyone!
