First-Time Travelers to Colombia Seeking Advice

Travel Forums General Talk First-Time Travelers to Colombia Seeking Advice

1. Posted by AZ_773 (First Time Poster 1 posts) 26w Star this if you like it!

Hello, fellow travelers! My friend and I are planning our first-ever trip outside the U.S., and we’ll be heading to Colombia for 10 days this December. We’re excited to explore the cities, see historical sites, dive into the local culture, and experience a bit of nightlife. Below is our itinerary and planned activities—if anyone has any suggestions for must-see spots or tips for first-time visitors, we’d love your input!

Itinerary and Planned Activities

📍 Bogotá (December 14-17)

Explore La Candelaria: We plan to wander this historic area, see street art, and visit the Gold Museum and Botero Museum.

Monserrate Hill: Planning to take the cable for city views

📍 Medellín (December 17-20)

El Poblado: Planning to explore this trendy area for cafes, art, and local shopping.

Comuna 13 Tour: Looking forward to a guided tour to learn about Medellín’s transformation and see the street art.

Day Trip to Guatapé and El Peñol: A full day trip to climb El Peñol and visit colorful Guatapé.

📍 Cartagena (December 20-24)

Old Town Cartagena: explore the. city to see the colonial architecture.

Getsemaní: explore this bohemian neighborhood for street art

Rosario Islands Day Trip: Aiming for a full day

Looking for Recommendations.

Since we’re first-time travelers, any tips on additional activities, local experiences, or travel tips would be amazing! We’re interested in:

-Hidden gems or lesser-known spots to see in these cities

-Food recommendations—especially local must-tries!

-Nightlife suggestions in these areas for a few casual evenings out

-Any tips for first-timers traveling in Colombia

Thank you in advance for any advice you can share! 😊

2. Posted by karazyal (Travel Guru 6269 posts) 26w Star this if you like it!

Hi.

-Any tips for first-timers traveling in Colombia...

Pull up current US State Department Travel Advisories.

(Short copy below.)

US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US State Department currently recommends US citizens Reconsider Travel due to crime and terrorism. Exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk.Jun 19, 2024

Quite a few links mention personal safety. Google type search will give you additional information for safety, etc.

  • I would notify my credit and debit card companies if I were going to this place. You don't want to be out of money if the card provider puts a block on your account as a precaution.

Up to you.

3. Posted by Crawlersp (First Time Poster 1 posts) 26w Star this if you like it!

My advice is when you’re out and about, especially in busy spots, just stay mindful of what’s going on around you.

Posts 4 & 5 were removed by moderators
6. Posted by TeflonCDN (Full Member 135 posts) 24w Star this if you like it!

I tried to advise my bank (Canada) of my upcoming 3 months in Central America and was told that they don't need this info anymore. Apparently thier AI / Security handles it all. I had no problems.

Try a tour of Paleque (near Carta) if you are interested in history. It was the first settlement in the America's founded by run-away slaves.

[ Edit: Edited on 12 Nov 2024, 20:02 GMT by TeflonCDN ]

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