Colombian people and culture are known for being open, smiley, and collaborative. We aim to make visitors feel welcome and like at home, so you can always expect help. However, it's important to stay alert and aware of the intentions of others, as there may be some who have bad intentions.
Mistakes to avoid
- Just one kiss. Yes, in Colombia, we give just one kiss when saying hello. When meeting for the first time, it is common to shake just hands as a sign of respect.
- Accents. Every region in Colombia has a different accent. We are not all 'Paisas', so even if you don't recognize an accent, know that there are many differences.
- Don’t miss Spanish classes. Colombian Spanish is considered to be quite neutral when compared to Spanish spoken in Spain, Argentina, or even Mexico. If you are looking to learn Spanish, take advantage of your time by taking some Spanish classes with locals.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary in Colombia, but it's not as standardized as in some other countries. In restaurants, it's customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill. In other service industries, like taxis or tour guides, tipping is also appreciated but not always expected.
- Punctuality: Colombian will always be late. So, it’s ok if you arrive 10 minutes late too. Also, don’t take it to personally, it’s just cultural.
- Avoid Flashy Displays: To minimize the risk of theft or petty crime, it's advisable not to display expensive jewelry, gadgets, or large amounts of cash in public.
- Use Official Transportation: When traveling within cities or between regions, opt for reputable taxi services or applications like Uber, Didi, Cabify, etc. Avoid unlicensed or unmarked taxis, especially at night. Transportation
- Natural Beauty: Colombia is a country of remarkable natural beauty. Show respect for the environment by avoiding littering and taking care of the pristine landscapes you encounter.