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The beauty of Colombia continues to be obscured by violence.
While many are familiar with the problems of Colombia, fewer
are aware of its charms-mist-shrouded mountains capped with
snow, golden-sand beaches and vast green stretches of rain
forest. We love the magic of the place. We do, however, recommend
that travelers take precautions.
Given the current situation, it is easier to list the country's
(relatively) safe areas than the more dangerous ones. Safer
destinations include Bogota; Capurgana; Leticia and neighboring
tourist areas; Neiva and Popayan (if reached by air); and
the tourist areas around Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Cartagena
and San Andres Island. All other areas of the county should
be considered dangerous.
Don't travel by intercity bus, wear valuables or accept food,
drink or cigarettes from strangers-sometimes these gifts are
drugged. Use only official taxis from legitimate taxi stands
(at most airports) and closely guard your passports and hand
luggage in airports.
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When to Go
The best time for the country as a whole is
December-March-it rains the least then. Note, however,
that this is the high season in the coastal resorts
and prices go up accordingly, so a visit in the off-season
(August-September) will be less expensive. Avoid May-July
and October-December, when heavy rains can fall (though
they're usually followed by bright sunshine). The elevation
in the country ranges from sea level to 10,000 ft/3,050
m, so temperatures can vary greatly. Coastal cities
and Leticia have day temperatures in the 70s-80s F/23-32
C, with nights in the 60s-70s F/17-27 C year round.
The inland cities' year-round day temperatures are generally
in the 60s-70s F/17-27 C (nights can get into the 40s-50s
F/5-16 C in the winter). A sweater is needed along the
coast at night and a jacket in the mountains (this includes
Bogota, which lies at more than 8,000 ft/2,440 m). The
best times to visit San Andres are January-February
and September, with March-April a close second.
Dos and Don'ts
Do not change money on the street. The counterfeiting
of all currencies and traveler's checks has become a
serious problem in Colombia...
Do take advantage of Colombia's delicious seafood...
Don't dress too wildly or wear flashy/expensive jewelry,
especially in Bogota. It will lessen your chances of
attracting unwanted attention...
Don't be surprised if the name-brand watch you bought
for almost nothing is confiscated as counterfeit by
customs when you return...
Do try some of the local rums and the popular beer called
Club Colombia. But don't drink too fast-alcohol takes
effect quicker at high altitudes than at sea level...
Do watch out for con artists posing as policemen and
asking to see your money or passport. Always ask first
to see an ID before pulling out your wallet..
Don't accept gifts of food, drink or cigarettes from
strangers when on buses or trains-often these "gifts"
are drugged, and you'll wake up penniless...
Tipping: Tip 10% in restaurants. Do
not tip the taxi drivers
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