The country has really moved past its stigma for kidnappings, drug lords, and crime. Many of the tourist areas that you visit in most cities in Colombia are going to be safe. The things to do in Colombia are vast and there is something for everyone. For example, the lost city in Colombia (cuidad perdida) and access to the Amazon rain forest are some of the things that most people never knew Colombia has to offer.
- Safety (currently being updated with citi- info)
- Costs
- Appliances
- Flying (updating shortly)
- The North & South Effect (updating shortly)
SAFETY: DON’T LET YOUR GUARD DOWN
Even thought the country has cleaned up its act doesn’t mean that you should let your guard down. I know that I have felt extremely comfortable living in Medellin, before a friend got kidnapped the first weekend he arrived. Gringos are king in Colombia and are targeting as such as well. Don’t ask for trouble.
- Don’t get drunk and wander on the street alone
- Go out in groups
- Take taxis home at night
ITS GOING TO COST MORE THAN YOU FIGURED
Food in Colombia (especially at the grocery store) is the most expensive of all in South America, even more expensive than in Chile. Make sure to plan a little more than you had budgeted not only because of the strong Colombian currency, but also because most people I know have stayed much longer than expected.
Side note: If you lost any electronics they are the cheapest you will find in South America. MercadoLibre is the latin version of Ebay (except no auctions).
BRING AMERICAN PERSONAL APPLIANCES
Bring American plugs or your normal American appliances. Colombia has the same plugs as the United States and also the same voltage. Click here for a full list of electrical plugs in South America.
