La Candelaria, Bogota
City Overview: Bogota, Colombia
Bogota, Colombia was a surprise in the making. Whenever I talked to people about the capital city of Colombia, they mentioned that it was dangerous and the weather was unpleasant. Sure, the weather wasn’t the greatest, (can be quite cold and rainy) but this city boasts a great nightlife and plenty of things to do. The city is also loaded with tons of universities. Trust me it will keep you quite busy.
Dangers:
The area where the hostels are in La Candelaria can be dangerous late at night. So be sure to grab a taxi . During the day, Bogota is quite safe. Do not wander off in the New Candelaria like I did and others have. That area is in the deep south of Bogota and can be quite dangerous. When a cab asks you where you need to go specify the Old Candelaria. The North side is very safe, but there are no hostels there just hotels.** A rule of thumb- the farther north you go the safer and the farther south the more dangerous it is.
Sights:
The cable car that goes up to the top of Cerro de Monserrate is a fun time. We went on an adventure and climbed it down. There was a lot of security going down and we weren’t bothered at all. Despite hearing rumors it was dangerous to go down, it was safe and secure from what we saw. Be sure to check out Plaza de Bolivar in the historic town where you will see some really nice architecture. The city also has plenty of cool churches to check out.
Sleeping:
Most of the hostels are located in La Candelaria area. We stayed at Fatima Hostel which is a highly recommended hostel by Bolo and I. It is a party hostel and can be quite loud at times, but the people who work there are great and very helpful. We met a guy who goes to strips clubs in Florida and brings the girls for plastic surgery in Bogota, Colombia. Plastic surgery here is really cheap and many people come to do it from overseas each year. We also met Aussies who were backpacking for many months, an enertainment lawyer, and a musician.
We really enjoyed our time there. If you are looking for something more quieter, check out Cranky Croc also in La Candelaria area.
Eating:
There are plenty of restaurants in La Candelaria area. There is a cheap breakfast place right by La Fatima where you can get eggs made your way, a croissant, and a cup of coffee for 4000 Pesos . Make a right and head down about a block. There is also a good Israeli restaurant nearby and a Middle Eastern food place a few blocks away. Just ask people will be sure to help you.
Entertainment:
The nightlife in Bogota is happening. Pretty much every night of the week there is a good bar or club to go to. My favorite was Zona Escobar’s on Friday, which had an electrifying DJ playing electronica. The cost is 15,000 pesos, but this includes that price in the drinks. Well worth the cost.
Zona Rosa in the north side also boasts a good nightlife. There are plenty of good clubs and bars in this area. The good nights to go are on the weekends. There is a University st with some good bars, too on Calle 55.
Bus:
You can get a bus from Bogota to Cali or Medellin for around 50,000 pesos. Buses also run to many other parts of Colombia. The bus terminal is located on Calle 33B No 69-13
Girls:
Despite what you hear from others about the girls in Bogota not being that hot, don’t listen to them. There are plenty of good looking girls in Bogota. In La Candelaria you will see plenty of good looking college students walking around during the day. It also helps to get into a social circle with Colombian friends as we did. They can help show you around and if you need help with anything they will go out of their way. Remember Bogota is the biggest city in Colombia so it brings in people from all parts. The dress is a bit different from Medellin, so instead of seeing girls in more revealing clothes, you will see them wearing fall/winter clothing because of the weather.
Overall City Rank: B
Bogota, Colombia offers a traveler many things. There is always something to do and it is a very busy city. My only major complaint was the weather as it is cold and rainy. I am more of a warm sunny weather kind of guy. The city offers a great nightlife and plenty of touristic activities to keep you busy.
I love your posts, especially ones like these. The real perspective! Keep up the good work!
Great article, summarized, very concise and to the point. I live in Bogota and in general terms I find your advice and information very accurate, specially what it has to do with low cost plastic surgery in Colombia. I work for a plastic surgery center in Bogota and we bring patients from abroad. They are specially drawn to us because of high quality, safe and affordable plastic surgery. Please visit us at http://www.naturalbelle.com .
Regards,
Consuelo
It seems like you really know Bogota, a city with many places to enjoy. On the security issue, I recommend look for information of good and bad areas, never be alone or go with a local friend.
You canfind more Bogota places and information Googleing “bogota travel”.