📖 **Visa**: Enjoy seamless entry with a 90-day visa exemption for U.S. citizens! There’s no need to complete the Check-mig form before arrival, making your travel plans even smoother.
💉 **Vaccination**: Traveling worry-free is easy with the free yellow fever vaccine available at Gate 5 on the second floor of Bogota’s airport. Open from 7 AM, simply bring your passport, grab a number, and get vaccinated—all at no cost!
✈️ **Flights**: Great news—Costa Rica has abolished the $8 departure tax when flying out of the country. For budget-conscious travelers, Wingo offers an affordable San Jose to Bogota flight for just $510 (Basic fare). While booking my ticket, I was initially told that my 50L bag wouldn’t fit and I’d have to pay extra, but after some negotiation, they issued the ticket without additional charges.
💰 **Exchange Rate**: Keep this handy conversion in mind: 10,000 Colombian pesos (COP) equals approximately 15 Chinese yuan or 2 U.S. dollars. Be aware that China Merchants Bank’s Mastercard may not work universally here, unlike cards from the big four banks. Also, note that “Mil” on peso notes means you’ll need to do the math yourself for larger amounts.
On a delightful note, I met a fellow countryman working for a Chinese company who not only helped me exchange money but also treated me to a meal and drinks—a truly heartwarming experience!
rides **Transportation**: Locally, Cabify is a popular choice, though Uber and Didi are also readily available. Motorcycle taxis and bicycles dominate the cityscape. At the airport’s first floor, look for the green Tullave kiosk to purchase a Bogota transport card. The card costs 7,000 pesos, and each ride is 3,000 pesos—payment by card only.
Bogota relies on intercity buses rather than subways, but Google Maps makes navigation effortless despite occasional traffic congestion. Buses to various districts are conveniently located just outside the airport.
📱 **SIM Card**: Claro offers an excellent deal—a 12GB monthly plan for only 34,000 pesos (approximately 52 CNY).
🍔 **Food & Drink**: Colombia is a paradise for foodies, offering both affordable prices and incredible satisfaction. Indulge in local specialties like South American empanadas, papa rellena (stuffed potato balls), creamy chicken and potato soup (ajiaco santafereño), bandeja paisa platters, hearty tripe soup (mondongo), and crispy fried pork rinds (chicharrón). For groceries, D1 supermarket provides fantastic value, while Exito shines with its selection of delicious breads.
For beverages, savor refreshing lemoncoco drinks, explore ice cream and dessert chains such as Crepes & Waffles, Popsy, Mimos, and Dunkin’ Donuts, unwind at pub chain BBC, or enjoy coffee and afternoon tea at Juan Coffee. Every bite and sip feels like a celebration of flavors!
☁️ **Weather**: Situated at an elevation of over 2,000 meters, Bogota enjoys consistent daytime temperatures around 27°C, cooling pleasantly in the mornings and evenings. During the rainy season, expect more overcast skies. The locals are exceptionally warm and welcoming, genuinely concerned about ensuring your happiness during your stay. Whether offering suggestions or accompanying you to eat and explore, their kindness knows no bounds—I even experienced staying on a couch for an entire week!
❤️ **Experience**: When everyone raves about Colombia—how affordable it is, how warm its people are, and how breathtaking its landscapes are—it’s natural to set high expectations. Yet, upon arrival, you’ll find yourself loving it even more. Such a rare and extraordinary feeling leaves a lasting impression!
