10 Things NOT to do When Visiting Medellin Colombia 🇨🇴

Summary

In this informative video, the speaker shares essential tips for travelers to Medellín, Colombia. Key advice includes avoiding flashy clothing and jewelry to blend in with locals, staying safe by not walking alone in empty areas, and using ATMs inside malls for security. Travelers should refrain from discussing sensitive topics like Pablo Escobar, respect local customs such as keeping shoes on in homes, and be cautious when using cell phones in public. Additionally, it's recommended to use smaller bills in local shops to foster goodwill. These insights aim to enhance the visitor experience while respecting Colombian culture.

Takeaways

• 😀 Avoid wearing flashy clothing and accessories to blend in with locals and avoid attracting unwanted attention.
• 😀 Dress appropriately; avoid shorts, tank tops, and sandals unless engaging in sports or at the pool.
• 😀 Stay out of empty areas and avoid walking alone at night. Use rideshare apps like Uber for safer transportation.
• 😀 Don't discuss wealth or financial situations; humility is valued in Colombian culture.
• 😀 Use ATMs inside malls for safety instead of on the street to minimize the risk of theft.
• 😀 Avoid making jokes or discussing Pablo Escobar, as it's a sensitive subject for many Colombians.
• 😀 Keep your shoes on when visiting homes, as taking them off might be seen as strange.
• 😀 Be cautious with your phone in public; be discreet when using it and stay aware of your surroundings.
• 😀 Use smaller bills (20,000 pesos and below) for purchases at local shops to make transactions smoother.
• 😀 Familiarize yourself with local currency practices, including using coins, as cash is still commonly used.

Q & A

Why is it important not to wear flashy clothing in Colombia?

Wearing flashy clothing or expensive accessories can make you stand out as a tourist and may attract unwanted attention. Colombians, including the wealthy, often dress down to blend in with the local culture.

What should you avoid in terms of hygiene when traveling in Colombia?

Maintaining good hygiene is crucial; tourists should avoid looking like extreme backpackers and should ensure they are clean and well-groomed to fit in with local standards.

What type of clothing is considered inappropriate for tourists in Medellín?

Tourists should avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, and sandals in Medellín, as these are not common in daily street fashion. Exceptions are made for sports activities on Sundays.

What safety precautions should tourists take when walking in Medellín?

Tourists should avoid walking alone in empty or unfamiliar areas, particularly after dark. It's safer to use rideshare services like Uber.

How should tourists approach discussions about money in Colombia?

It's advisable not to flaunt wealth or discuss financial matters. Colombians generally prefer not to talk about how much money someone has or their job status.

Where is the safest place to use ATMs in Colombia?

The safest place to use ATMs is inside shopping malls, as they are less likely to attract attention from thieves compared to street ATMs.

Why is mentioning Pablo Escobar considered sensitive in Colombia?

Pablo Escobar is a controversial figure in Colombian history, and discussing him can be hurtful to many Colombians who lost loved ones during that period. It's best to avoid this topic altogether.

What is the custom regarding shoes when visiting a Colombian home?

Many Colombians do not take off their shoes when guests visit, as they believe walking barefoot or in socks can lead to illness. Tourists should follow local customs and keep their shoes on.

What precautions should be taken when using a cellphone in public?

Tourists should be cautious when using their cellphones in public. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and to use the phone discreetly to avoid attracting thieves.

What is the recommendation for paying at small local shops in Colombia?

It's recommended to avoid using large bills (such as 50,000 pesos) at mom-and-pop stores. Instead, use smaller denominations or coins, as this helps facilitate transactions and is appreciated by shop owners.