COLOMBIA
When most people think of Colombia, they think of Pablo Escobar and the ravages of his persona that have been left behind to linger like a dark fog. Colombia is SO MUCH MORE THAN THAT and has such a fascinating history! Its landscape features the Amazon Rainforest, big cities, national parks, and more. Easily one of my favorite travel destinations, Colombia is the next place you should visit!
Updated COVID-19 Travel Information:
Currency:
The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP)
$1 USD = 3,700 COP
Pricing for Leisure Travelers:
Average Hotel Expenses = 204,000-260,000 COP/Night ($55-$70 USD/Night)
Average Food/Drink Expenses = 74,000-130,000 COP/Day ($20-$35 USD/Day)
Pricing for Backpackers:
Average Hostel Expenses = 37,000-74,000 COP/Night ($10-$20 USD/Night)
Average Food/Drink Expenses = 37,000-74,000 COP/Day ($10-$20 USD/Day)
Communication:
Spanish is the national language of Colombia. Traveling throughout the country did not require knowing how to speak Spanish (with one exception: my home-stay in the Amazon) although it was very advantageous at times. People will really appreciate it if you try!
Transportation:
Bus: Colombia is a deceivingly large country and therefore bus travel will entail some lengthy rides. You can usually book these directly through your hostel. The best bus companies are Bolivariano, Brasilia, and Empresa Arauca. To compare prices, you can look (and book) through Bookaway.
Airplane: You can find a lot of cheap flights on Skyscanner. Most domestic flights in Colombia will be through Viva Air, LATAM, or Avianca.
Taxi/Uber: Taking a taxi or an Uber is efficient and inexpensive. Although Uber is “illegal” in Colombia, a lot of people use it. That said, if you do take an Uber, be prepared to sit in the front seat to make it appear as though it is not a paid service. Although I didn’t have any issues, apparently the police are relatively strict about this, especially near the airports.
Miscellaneous:
I feel ridiculous even saying this since Colombia is perfectly safe but I heard this expression multiple times while there so I figured I would share it with you. “No dar papaya” (which translates to “don’t give papaya”) is a Colombian phrase meaning don’t make yourself an easy target. Don’t have things hanging out of your pocket and pay attention to your surroundings. Colombia is extremely tourist-friendly, but be mindful as always!
On Sundays in the bigger cities of Colombia, many main thoroughfares are shut down for Ciclovia to encourage people to exercise! I saw people jogging, biking, rollerblading, etc. Great way to spend a Sunday morning!
