There aren’t many Chinese tourists in Colombia, and after the Day of the Dead celebrations, it feels like everyone has disappeared to Cuba. During my week-long trip through Colombia, I didn’t encounter a single Chinese traveler, nor did I notice much Asian influence in either Bogotá or Medellín. To help others discover this beautiful country, I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide with some key tips:
📱 **SIM Card**: Avoid purchasing a SIM card at the airport—it will cost you several times more than elsewhere. Instead, take advantage of the airport Wi-Fi (just register once for 30 minutes) and grab a taxi to your hotel. Once settled, head to a nearby Claro store to pick up a SIM card. Alternatively, activate a one-day roaming service before arriving and then purchase a SIM card from stores around popular tourist areas.
Keep in mind that these options are still pricier than buying directly from street vendors, where you’ll find the cheapest deals.
💰 **Currency Exchange**: While there are currency exchange booths at the airport, we discovered better rates the following day at shops on the first floor of the Emerald Center. Plus, if gemstones interest you, this is also a great place to browse mineral specimens.
👮 **Safety**: This topic can feel paradoxical—Colombia is generally safe until an unfortunate incident occurs. Locals in both Bogotá and Medellín recommend using a phone lanyard and an anti-theft bag when exploring. In tourist-heavy areas, you should be fine, but staying cautious never hurts.
🚗 **Transportation**: If you’re traveling between Bogotá and Medellín, Uber tends to be more essential in Medellín than in Bogotá. For journeys between the two cities, flights are convenient, but during the rainy season, buses are often a safer bet to avoid unexpected airport delays.
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### Entering the Main Content: Bogotá
Bogotá is a high-altitude city without distinct seasons, and rain showers are frequent, so pack a reliable raincoat. Credit cards are widely accepted here, reducing the need to carry much cash. Compared to Medellín, Bogotá feels less polished and slightly more serious in atmosphere. Still, it’s worth dedicating two days and one night to explore its highlights.
#### **Day 1**
Start your morning by heading to Monserrate Hill. Purchase your cable car ticket on-site, but beware—if you arrive later in the day, the lines can stretch for over an hour and a half. Save time by booking tickets online. The hill itself doesn’t offer too many activities, and most visits last under an hour. Hiking up isn’t recommended due to the altitude and steep terrain. After descending, make your way to the National Museum, Gold Museum, and other nearby attractions. (Image 2)
A quick note about Colombian emeralds: Unless you’re well-versed in gemstones, approach purchases cautiously. Always negotiate prices; paying in US dollars may grant you a slight discount, and you can typically haggle down to around 70% of the initial asking price. Mineral specimens vary widely in cost—from just a few USD to several hundred—depending on your preferences. However, buying gemstones outright isn’t highly recommended unless you know what you’re looking for! (Image 3)
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### 🍴 **Food Recommendations**
Colombian breakfasts are delightfully unique, unlike the typical American-style spreads found in Mexico. Most cafés serve similar offerings, making it easy to dive into local flavors. (Image 4)
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