Colombia

Trip Information Kit

Bienvenido a Colombia
This information packet is designed to provide general information
about Colombia and answer basic questions as you prepare for your
upcoming trip to South America.

The fourth largest country in South America and one of the continent's most
populous nations, Colombia has substantial oil reserves and is a major
producer of gold, silver, emeralds, platinum and coal.
Sandy Caribbean beaches, Amazonian jungles, colonial
history and archaeological ruins Colombia has it all. Home
of Latin American magical realism, the countrys dreamlike
atmosphere has often been subjected to a rude awakening
by the harsh reality of a decades-long conflict. Major
advances in security and a makeshift truce with the FARC
revolutionary army during the past decade have seen a
massive return of confidence to this often misunderstood
giant, and tourists and businesses alike are starting to flock
back in hordes. While FARC is still active in some parts of the
country, the peace process is moving forward after years of
negotiating. While FARC is still active in southern parts of the
country, these locations are not included in Austral Trips.
It is often said that Colombian culture, like the countrys
weather, varies by altitude. The essence of Colombia resides
in the cities of Bogot, Medelln and Cali, all located in the
Andes Mountains, and the smaller cities of the Zona
Cafetera, which comprise the industrial heartland of the
country. It provides a huge contrast with the more laid-back
Caribbean coast, which more than makes up what it lacks in
infrastructure with friendliness and joie-de-vivre.

Full Name

Republic of Colombia

Population

46.3 million (UN, 2010)

Capital
Area

Bogot
1.14 million sq km (440,831 sq miles)

Major Language

Spanish

Major Religion

Christianity

Life Expectancy

70 years (men), 78 years (women)

(UN)
Colombian Peso (COP)

Monetary unit
Main Exports

GDP Per Capita

Internet Domain

Petroleum, coffee, coal, gold, bananas,

cut flowers, chemicals, emeralds,
cotton products, sugar, livestock
US $4,930 (World Bank, 2009)
.co

In nine years international visitors

in Colombia doubled. While
tourism in the world increased
6,7%, in Colombia this trend
increased 8,9% in 2010.
Colombia lies at the crossroads of Latin America and the
broader American continent, and as such has been hit by a
wide range of cultural influences. Native American, Spanish
and other European, African, American, Caribbean, and Middle
Eastern influences, as well as other Latin American cultural
influences, are all present in Colombia's modern culture.
Urban migration, industrialization, globalization, and other
political, social and economic changes have also left an
impression.
Economy
According to International Monetary Fund estimates, in 2010
Colombia's GDP (PPP) was US$429.866 billion (28th in the
world and third in South America). Adjusted for purchasing
power parity, GDP per capita stands at $6,273, placing
Colombia 82nd in the world. However, in practice this is
relatively unevenly distributed among the population, and, in
common with much of Latin America, Colombia scores poorly
according to the Gini coefficient, with UN figures placing it
119th out of 126 countries. In 2003 the richest 20% of the
population had a 62.7% share of income/consumption and the
poorest 20% just 2.5%, and 17.8% of Colombians live on less
than $2 a day.
The Colombian Economy has been growing at high rates during
the last decade, due to the confidence and business
opportunities that the investors have found in this emerging
market. Nowadays, foreign investors see Colombia as an
emerging destination for secure investment.
Following the financial crisis of 2008, capital inflows to
emerging economies went through a generalized increase as a
result of the international liquidity originated by the expense
expansion policies of developed countries.
In addition, the increase in the international prices of raw
materials has made direct investment more attractive in the
countries that produce these commodities, such as the case of
Colombia, in which 7% of all the region's capital inflow was
concentrated in 2010.
Although the FDI in Colombia reached US$6.760 m in 2010 (5%
less than in 2009), it was above the historic average of the
decade, driven mainly by the high international prices of
minerals and petroleum; these two sectors concentrated 67%
of the net positive revenue reported by Colombia over the last

year.
Considering all the other sectors, financial activity received
13% of the total inflows received by the country in 2010,
followed by manufacturing activities at 8% and trade with
6% of the total.
The great variety in geography, flora and fauna across
Colombia has also resulted in the development of an
ecotourist industry, concentrated in the country's national
parks. Popular ecotourist destinations include: along the
Caribbean coast, the Tayrona National Natural Park in the
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range and Cabo de
la Vela on the tip of the Guajira Peninsula; the Nevado del
Ruiz volcano, the Cocora valley and the Tatacoa Desert in
the central Andean region; Amacayacu National Park in the
Amazon River basin; and the Pacific islands of Malpelo and
Gorgona. Colombia is home to seven UNESCO World
Heritage Sites.
Government
The Politics of Colombia take place in a framework of a
presidential representative democratic republic, whereby
the President of Colombia is both head of state and head of
government, and of a multi-party system. Executive power
is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested
in both the government and the two chambers of congress,
the Senate and the House of Representatives of Colombia.
The Judiciary is independent of the executive and the
legislature.

In 2011 the World Bank ranked Colombia as the third most businessfriendly country in Latin America and the first country in the region that
best protects investors.
The president is elected for a four-year term and, since 2005,
can be re-elected for one consecutive term. The 1991
constitution reestablished the position of vice president, who is
elected on the same ticket as the president. By law, the vice
president will succeed in the event of the president's
resignation, illness, or death.
Colombia's bicameral Congress consists of a 102-member
Senate of Colombia and a 161-member Chamber of
Representatives of Colombia. Senators are elected on the basis
of a nationwide ballot, while representatives are elected in
multimember districts co-located within the 32 national
departments. The country's capital is a separate capital district
and elects its own representatives. Members may be re-elected
indefinitely, and, in contrast to the previous system, there are
no alternate congressmen. Congress meets twice a year, and
the president has the power to call it into special session when
needed.
History Brief
After Colombia gained its independence from Spain, internal
issues regarding politics and territorial divisions continued to
take place. Probably the most historic war in the history of
Colombia is the Thousand Days Civil War that led to the
establishment of Panama as a nation in 1903. A period of public
violence known as La Violencia overwhelmed the capital city of
Bogot between 1940 and 1950, mainly because of the
assassination of the Liberal presidential contender Jorge
Bogotazo. In the late 1980s, the economic and political arenas
of Colombia were particularly influenced by powerful and
aggressive drug cartels. In 1991, the new Colombian
Constitution was ratified with key provisions on the nations
human, gender, ethnic and political rights. The government of
President Alvaro Uribe initiated significant improvements to
ensure the public security. Uribes reforms have been continued
by the current center-right government, and the significant
increase in tourism and foreign investment have been
considered signs that Colombia has finally started to move away
from its guerilla-laden past to become a strong contender in the
world economy.

Facts About Colombia

The United States is Colombia's top trade partner,
accounting for 33.8 percent of the country's total
commerce. U.S. trade with Colombia in 2011 grew by
35% to $37.4 billion. That was the second-highest
increase in US-Latin American trade.
Colombia Oil Exports to USA grew more than any other
Latin America country in 2011, growing 65.9%.
Colombia was ranked in 2011 as the second best country
in Latin America in terms of crime cost to business
(security costs as a percent of annual sales). Thanks to
improvements during the presidency of Alvaro Uribe
(2002-10), crime was significantly reduced in Colombia. It
came second to Uruguay.
Violence levels in the country have registered enormous
drops. The number of homicides has decreased by 45%
between 2002 and 2009 decreased 44%; so far, Bogot is
ranked as one of the safest cities in the region, beating
Washington, Atlanta and Miami.
A Free Trade Agreement between USA and Colombia was
passed in 2011 which has opened up business
enormously between these two countries.
Colombias economy, Latin Americas fourth-largest, will
likely grow by 4.5 percent this year, according to ECLAC.
In a report recently released by HSBC, analysts predicted
that Colombia may become one of the world's 30 largest
economies by the year 2050, with only Egypt and
Malaysia increasing in size at a faster rate. The Andean
nation would need to maintain an average growth rate of
4 percent to match the report's predicted position of 26
Foreign capital is pouring in to take advantage of the
treasure trove of natural resources, an enviable
geographic location and 45 million hungry consumers.
In 2011 the World Bank ranked Colombia as the third
most business friendly country in Latin America and was
named as a Top Ten reformer for the last five years.
According to the World Bank Colombia is the first
country in Latin America that best protects investors and
ranks fifth worldwide
According to the IMD, Colombia's labor regulations
hinder business activities in Latin America the least, the
lowest Index on rigidity of employment in Latin America
and the second most qualified labor available in the
region.

Trip Preparation
Preparation is essential to ensure a great experience. Please read the
following tips and make sure that you pack appropriately to avoid
potential problems.
Dress Codes
The daily dress code is listed on the itinerary for each
day. The dress code will depend on the daily activity.
In general, visits to companies will require business
casual dress. Follow these general guidelines:
Business formal
Tie and jacket for men; suit, slacks or
skirt and blouse for women.
Business casual
Khakis and button down shirts for men;
slacks or skirt and blouse for women.
Casual
Jeans and athletic shoes may be worn.
Outdoor
Athletic or outdoor pants suggested.
Athletic shoes, hiking boots, or sport
sandals.

Proper business attire in

meetings and business
occasions is a must,
although for casual events
(such as dining in a
restaurant) casual wear is
commonplace.

General Packing Tips

Clearly identify your luggage inside and out with your name and hotel and
home address;
Place a strap around your suitcase to secure it in case the lock breaks, and
to identify it easily at baggage claim;
Check your airline regulations for weight, size and number of bags;
In your carry-on, keep a change of clothes, toiletries (no liquids), valuables,
important documents (passports, visas, arrival instructions) and
medication;
We suggest you carry-on a coat;
Consider bringing an extra empty suitcase or bag to carry souvenirs and
purchased tems

Items to bring

3 photocopies of your passport information page (the page with the

photo). Also leave a copy at home

Photocopy of your prescription medications

Photocopy of your medical insurance card

International calling card and access numbers for dialing from Colombia

Leave a copy with someone at home of phone numbers to cancel credit

cards in case of theft

Camera

ALWAYS bring sunblock, sunglasses, and a travel umbrella

Day pack (for short trips; this could double as your carry-on)

A pocket Spanish-English dictionary (optional)

Clothing

Check itinerary for daily dress recommendations.

Clothing appropriate for indicated climate
A fleece or in-between weather jacket
Comfortable walking shoes.
Workout clothes (if applicable).

Toiletries

Prescription drugs for the duration of your time abroad.

Extra eyeglasses, if available (if applicable)

Extra contact lenses (if applicable)

Pack only as many toiletry items as you will use. Small sample sizes are
preferable. Remember that the hotels will provide soap, shampoo and
other items.
Reciprocity Fee of Canadian Citizens:
Effective December 1st, 2014, Colombia will begin charging a reciprocity fee to
citizens of Canada arriving at any airport in Colombia. The fee of approximately $88
CAD (or 160.000 Colombian pesos) per person is valid for a single entry into the
country, and is payable by international credit card or debit card.

Useful Information
These tips will ensure that you know what to expect in Colombia.
Transportation
You will be provided with transportation from your hotel to all
scheduled meetings and venues. For transportation not included in the
schedule, we suggest asking the hotel concierge to arrange for a taxi
service. We also recommend using the Uber or Tappsi apps as an
alternative and safer option to hailing a taxi off the street.

Goods and Services Tax

Goods and services are subject to a 16% value added tax. This is
generally included in the purchase price. Some shops offer a tax-back
service when leaving the country for purchases over a certain amount,
but the regulations vary. Please consult directly at the shops for more
information.

Subway
The Medelln subway is a safe, inexpensive and fast
transportation method. It serves the city center and
neighboring areas only, so you may need to take a short taxi
ride to the nearest station.

Tipping
It is usual to tip 10% at restaurants and bars in Colombia. This amount
is often included in bill, and the waiter will simply ask you to confirm
that you would like to include it before you pay. If the waiter does not
ask you, it is always recommended to check your bill before leaving a
tip on the table. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers, but you may
round up the fare to the nearest thousand for convenience, or when
the taxi driver has been particularly helpful. Gratuities for group meals
that are listed in the itinerary and for bus drivers, travel hosts and tour
guides have been included as part of The Austral Group service.

Language
Spanish is the official language of Colombia; however English will be
used during most tours and meetings.
Currency and Banking
Colombias official currency is the Colombian Peso ($ or COP). Foreign
cash is generally not accepted. Money can be exchanged at banks,
exchange houses or hotels. We recommend you bring an ATM card to
withdraw spending cash as needed, and a Credit Card for shopping or
emergencies.
Colombia does not have a fixed exchange rate, so it is advisable to stay
informed about current prices before changing money.
Credit cards
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and major shops.
The most commonly accepted cards are Visa, Master Card, Diners Club
and American Express. Exchange rates for credit cards are convenient.
It is important to notify your bank that you will be traveling in South
America because some banks have to ensure that your card is activated
for transactions abroad.
Automatic Teller Machines
ATMs offer a good opportunity to withdraw Colombian currency from
your home bank account at reasonable rates. ATMs in Colombian are
common and easy to locate. Many ATMs honor Cirrus, Visa, Plus and
Maestro cards. Please note that most banks charge a transaction fee
for international ATM withdrawals, which can vary between USD$3 and
USD$8.
Money Exchange
Money may be exchanged at any established "Casa de Cambio"
(Money Exchange) at market driven exchange rates. There are several
Casas de Cambios near your hotel and at the airport.
Electric Supply
The power supply in Colombia is 110 Volts @ 50 Hz, same as the US.
Electric Plugs
Colombia uses type A plugs with two flat prongs, same as in the USA.
Water
The water supply in big cities is potable and safe to drink. To avoid any
complications, we suggest you drink bottled water, which you can buy
in pharmacies, supermarkets, or sidewalk kiosks.

Calling Home
The cheapest way to call abroad is to use Skype, or go to a Locutorio
(calling office). They provide several phone booths with special rates to
call abroad, and are much cheaper than using calling cards. If you wish,
you may buy calling cards on any sidewalk kiosk or supermarket (next
to the till). Rates vary depending on the card, but you usually get about
5 minutes for US$10.
Safety
Colombia is generally a very safe country. Road travel, walking through
cities and towns are very low risk activities. The major cities of
Colombia, such as Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Cali and
Barranquilla have lower levels of insecurity than other places in
America, even lower than in other big cities. Rural areas are also very
secure and allow visitors to stroll and discover without fear. Like
elsewhere in the world, however, you must take some precautions to
make your trip the best experience possible.
As in any large city in the world, watch out for your belongings. Allow
hosts, residents and tourism professionals to suggest the best places to
visit. Be especially careful in areas with large crowds such as public
transportation, mass events, and commercial areas. Try to keep your
documents, money, jewelry, cell phones and other items of value in
the hotel safe. Try not to carry all your cash or bankcards at any given
time.
If you do rural tourism, always stay with your tour guides and qualified
personnel. Do not deviate from the routes. The complicated geography
Colombian makes it easy to get lost.
If you have allergies or health problems due to foods, always ask about
the ingredients. Colombian cuisine is varied and uses a lot of different
ingredients. Always carry your insurance card or health certificate if
applicable.
Always check if the region in which you want to travel requires
vaccinations or special health precautions. For travel to some areas of
the country (e.g. the Amazon) you must be immunized against yellow
fever 15 days before travel. This does not apply for large cities.

Emergency Contacts

The Austral Group

Enrique Foster Norte 196, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
www.theaustralgroup.com
Calling from USA (normal office hours):
USA Toll-Free: (877) 871-3932 or
Calling from other countries (normal office hours):
+(1) 786-345-0048 and +(56 2) 719-5979

Embassy and Consulate of the United States of America

Calle 24 Bis No. 48-50, Bogot
The American Citizen Services Section is open for non-emergency services by appointment only.
For specific questions, or to make an appointment to speak with a Consular officer, send an e-mail to
acsbogota@state.gov. You can also call at 275 - 4900. Non-emergency calls are answered Monday
through Thursday from 2 pm until 4 pm. Please note that the volume of calls is heavy.
Emergency walk-ins are accepted Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm.

Canadian Embassy and Consulate

Carrera 7 #114-33, Piso 14Bogot,
Telephone:
(57-1) 657-9800 (general)
Monday - Thursday: 8:00 a.m.- 12:30p.m., 1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

After hours emergency contact information: Call collect: 613- 996-8885 / 613-944-1310 (TTY)

British Embassy and Consulate

Carrera 9, No 76-49, Piso 8, Edificio ING Barings, Bogot
Telephone
(57) (1) 326 8300 Main Embassy Switchboard
Out of hours emergency calls - If you have a genuine 'life or death' emergency when the Embassy or
Consulates in Cali, Cartagena or Medellin are closed, please call the Embassy - (01) 326 8300. A
message will provide you with an appropriate contact number

Embassy and Consulate of New Zealand

Diagonal 109, 1-39 Este, Apt 401, Santa Fe
Tel.:(56 2) 616 3000
Phone:+57-1-93230779 / +57-1-6298524
Email: pearsona@cable.net.co

The Austral Group

HQ: Enrique Foster Norte 196, Las Condes
Santiago, 755-0087
Chile
www.theaustralgroup.com