Living in Colombia

THE PEOPLE - The average North American or European may find Colombians to be conservative and traditional in their mentality. In general, Colombians are respectful of different cultures and expect others to respect theirs as well. Bogotanos tend to be more reserved and quiet. Caleños and Costeños are very sociable, warm, friendly and extroverted.

CLIMATE - The climate of Colombia varies from city to city. Cali and Medellin have a tropical climate. The average temperature is 28 degrees Celsius. Barranquilla has a Caribbean climate, with the average temperature being between 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. Bogotá has a colder climate. The average temperature is 18 degrees Celsius.

SAFETY - Cali , Bogotá, Medellin and Barranquilla have the normal problems of most growing cities including street crime, pollution, poverty and other ills associated with big city life. Teachers are advised to use common sense and take the same preventative measures that they would in any other large city.

Colombia does unfortunately have problems with guerrilla and drug traffickers. There are some areas of the country that are not recommended visiting. Staff and friends will supply any information needed on these areas.

TRANSPORTATION - Public transportation in Colombia consists of buses and taxis. Bus fares are relatively inexpensive (a bus ride costs about 50 cents). Bus fares do not depend on the length of the trip. Taxis cost slightly more. A two-mile trip can cost US $2.00. Distances in Cali , Medellin and Barranquilla are generally short, from pole to pole takes less than 1 hour. Bogotá is much larger, and trips take longer because of constant traffic problems.

SHOPPING - There are several modern shopping centers in all large cities where you can purchase everything from clothing to household goods. In addition, there are specialty shops where you can buy imported products. There is always the option of galerias (outdoor markets) that are standard South American adventures.

READING MATERIAL - English language newspapers and books are available, but the selection is limited. Books and magazines are generally three times the cost printed on the covers in dollars. If you are an avid reader, we recommend bringing your own reading material.

FOOD - The typical Colombian meal consists of rice, beans and meat. Throughout Colombia the big meal of the day is eaten at noon . Larger cities will have international restaurants as well as fast food restaurants such as McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pizza Hut and Dunkin Donuts. An average Colombian lunch costs about US $2.50 - 3.00. Supermarkets generally stock the same products as in the US or Europe .

ENTERTAINMENT - Cali , Bogotá and Medellin are known for their nightlife!! Each has numerous nightclubs and bars as well as fashionable zonas rosas . Bogotá has several theaters where you can see international performers, plays, ballets and concerts. Cali has some theaters but not nearly as many as Bogotá nor Medellin. Most popular films can be seen at the local movie theaters. There are three national television stations that transmit programs in Spanish. Cable channeling is widespread and brings in many English language channels. Barranquilla is a smaller city, but one can still find restaurants, bars, nightclubs and, of course, the beach!

MAIL - The Colombian mail is fast. Express mail and DHL as well as other couriers are available but a bit expensive.

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