Find the Cheapest Flights to explore beautiful Colombia today

Currently, Vietnamese citizens require a visa to enter Colombia. You should apply for a tourist visa at the Colombian Embassy or Consulate before your trip. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry. Preparing your documents early will help avoid unnecessary complications. Always carry copies of your identification and round-trip flight ticket (round-trip flight ticket to Colombia) throughout your journey.

In major cities like Bogotá and Medellín, the public bus system (TransMilenio in Bogotá) is an economical way to travel. For domestic flights, low-cost carriers like Viva Air or Wingo offer flights to Cali, Cartagena, and Barranquilla. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also common, but you should negotiate the fare beforehand or use an app to ensure safety and reasonable pricing. For inter-city travel, long-distance buses are a cost-effective option, but be aware that travel times can be very long.

Major cities offer a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. In Bogotá, areas like La Candelaria (for culture) and Chapinero (for nightlife) are popular. In Medellín, El Poblado is a high-end and safe area. Always choose accommodation with good reviews and located near main transportation routes. Avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas. Book in advance, especially if you have purchased flights to Colombia during peak season.

Colombians are known for being friendly and hospitable. Handshakes are common when greeting, and close friends often hug or kiss on the cheek. Punctuality is not as strict as in Vietnam, but you should still try to be on time for formal appointments. Tipping is customary in restaurants (around 10%). Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will help you greatly, as not everyone speaks English. Respecting their history and coffee culture is important.

Colombian cuisine is diverse and often focuses on hearty meals. You must try **Bandeja Paisa**, a large meal consisting of meat, egg, rice, beans, and plantain. **Ajiaco** (chicken and potato soup) is a traditional dish in Bogotá. Don't forget to enjoy authentic Colombian coffee in coffee-growing regions like Pereira or Armenia. For snacks, try **Arepas** (flat corn cakes) with various fillings. Fresh fruit juices (jugos naturales) here are also excellent.

Colombia is much safer now, but visitors still need to be vigilant, especially in large cities. Do not display expensive jewelry or mobile phones in public. Always keep your bag or backpack in front of you. Be wary of the "paseo millonario" (armed robbery in unregistered taxis); always call a car through an app or a reputable company. If robbed, remain calm and surrender your belongings to ensure personal safety. Only withdraw cash at ATMs located inside banks.