If you plan to travel to Colombia, it is important that you know some aspects about the basic services that you can find in this country. These services are: transportation, electricity, internet and money. Below, we briefly explain how they work and what you should keep in mind to make the most of them.
Transport: Colombia has a wide network of public and private transportation that allows you to move around the different cities and regions. You can choose between buses, taxis, metro, tram, train, plane or car rental, depending on your budget and preference. Some recommendations are: check the rates before boarding, use mobile applications to request or pay for the service, respect traffic and safety regulations, and avoid traveling during rush hour or high-risk areas.
Electricity: The standard voltage in Colombia is 110 volts and 60 hertz. Plugs are either type A or B, with two flat pins. If your electronic device has a different voltage or a different plug, you will need an adapter or transformer. These can be purchased at specialty stores or airports. Keep in mind that some rural areas may have frequent power outages or no electricity at all.
Internet: Most hotels, restaurants, cafes and shopping centres offer free or paid Wi-Fi. You can also buy a local SIM card or mobile data plan to access the internet from your mobile phone. The main operators are Claro, Movistar, Tigo and Avantel. Prices and coverage vary depending on the plan and area. To connect to the internet from a computer, you can use internet cafes or public libraries.
Money: The official currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). You can exchange your dollars or euros at exchange offices, banks or ATMs. You can also pay with credit or debit cards in most commercial establishments. However, it is advisable that you carry some cash to pay for small expenses or tips. The exchange rate fluctuates daily, so check the current rate before making any transaction.
