Safety in Bogota Colombia?

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Embassy Emeralds

Their reaction might have been somewhat understandable years ago, but Colombia is now a great place to visit. In fact I read about a top ten list from Lonely Planet guide I think it was that had Colombia listed as one of its top ten destinations. The other answer is correct in saying that your chances of something happening is higher in certain areas of the city.... I am a blong hair, blue eyed American who has been living in the centro of Bogota for a year now. Many people from Bogota avoid the centro, but I've not had any problems yet. I've also been to Soacha, Fusa, and Kennedy as the other answer mentioned. I'd probably not wander around there on my own, but with a friend I don't feel too uncomfortable. I actually plan to stay in Colombia permanently. I like it that much and I feel comfortable living here.

I've never seen a crime take place here but I have had friends robbed of their purses or cellphones. They weren't harmed because they just gave it up to avoid a problem. Most of the time the thieves aren't looking to hurt you they just want what you have and they'll go. I would agree that kidnapping is very rare now. The only kidnappings I've heard of recently have been babies and some really adventurous tourists in a boat on the pacific coast where its sparsely populated. They were released soon afterwards. I'd say the baby kidnappings probably happen in the US more than in Colombia.

I can't say who gets targeted because its just not that common now. I think it used to be nearly 4000 people got kidnapped a year back when it was a problem but now that number is closer to 100 or so. Its changed a lot. I think wealthy Colombian business owners might be more at risk than you.

Your only concern would be street crime, but that's very avoidable if you use your head. If you're not showing your money or presenting an easy target you'll be fine. Think about what you're carrying when you leave the house. I often only carry an id and the money I plan to spend. I'll leave my atm and credit cards at home and maybe keep my watch in my pocket until I get to the place I'm going. Don't wear expensive or flashy jewelry if you're walking around a dingy neighborhood. When you're talking on a cell phone alone outside the street, just be aware of people who might walk past you. Keep your purse close to you. It's all very easy to do.

If your boyfriend lives in one of the better areas of town, there's nothing at all to worry about... you'll have an amazing time. I know several Americans and europeans who have spent several months or even several years in Colombia and they can't get enough. And I've never met anyone who did not want to come back. By all means don't be persuaded not to come to Colombia.

Obama is a socialist

First of all kidnapping is very uncommon in Bogota, especially if you are with a Colombian family. Where does your BF's family live? If he lives in the North.. your a lot more safe.. If he lives in Kennedy, or Soacha, or fusa, odds go up youll stand out like a sore thumb. Petty crime is pretty common. Dont flash cash... But if youre with him or his family.. hell know the area.. Youll be fine. Email me his neighborhood or the area (like say 19 and 128 - my address in Colombia for example) and I can tell you how safe it is and what estrato he is. (from 1-6) My mother in law lives in Zarzamora (Estrato 4) and its pretty safe. Close to that is La Florida. Not as safe since it is all motels (in Colombia a Hotel rents by the night, a motel rents by the hour) Youll love Bogota and Colombia. Have him take you to the Kualamana in Melgar - Great hotel, warm climate. If you can, go to Cartagena.. But be sure to see Monserrate, The Gold museum, Zipaquira AT LEAST while in Colombia.

diruec

If youre staying with your bofriend, spend most of the time with him or his family, youll be safer. The most important is to feel confident so the thieves wont notice you. Theres no major risk of being kidnapped. Although street crime is quite frequent, you can avoid it being careful with your purse and cell phone.

I totally agree with the last answer, I think its enough,

Enjoy your trip to Colombia. The only risk is wanting to stay.

coffeeagent

i am colombian myself
i think that you have to know the area wehre you are going to be
and if you have confidence in that person how long do you know him and how many times have you visited or seen him. If you never have seen/ visited him the most important thing is to find out about that person. Not only him but his family.
Now about kiddnapping in my country it doesn't matter that you work goverment or if you are a citinzen the important thing to know wehre you are going and who your are going to be. Know ing that you can go without anyproblems, confidence, and safety.
Colombia is a beutiful country were there is infinitive tourist place, beaches, museams, etc.. Don't think colombians are all bad, just someof has have damge our image. Just because one of us did something bad its not all.

Good Luck!

Tell your boyfriend to tell no one you are coming, and try not to showoff, try to dress like them if you want to know contact me.

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