Stacie asked:
One of the guys I work with is being sent to South America (specifically Columbia) next month by our employer.
We’ve heard it’s a dangerous and unstable place to go, is that true?
One of the guys I work with is being sent to South America (specifically Columbia) next month by our employer.
We’ve heard it’s a dangerous and unstable place to go, is that true?

Yes, it is safe. Just make sure you tell him to use common sense. If everyone worried about safety too much while traveling, no one would go anywhere. It is dangerous all over the world, if you don’t use common sense.
Comment by Fulanito — August 3, 2009 @ 7:33 pm
i have alot of Colombian friends. there is always the small possibility of being kidnapped and held for ransom, but only outside the big cities. none of my friends have ever been kidnapped or know anyone who has. well one of them has but that was for something completely different. don’t dress too nicely or wear jewelry. there are still conflicts between the rebels and the government. so stay in well populated areas. the women are hot so it’s worth the extra risk.
Comment by m deal — August 4, 2009 @ 8:21 pm
See websit elow to read the U.S. State Dep’t. consular info sheet on Colombia. Especially note section on safety and security.
Comment by Charlie — August 5, 2009 @ 3:09 pm
It’s like any other country. It’s pretty safe but you need to be careful where you go.
If you went to New York City you’d be very careful, right?
I’m sure your friend will love it.
.
Comment by onetwothree — August 6, 2009 @ 8:08 am
It’s funny, but people in Colombia and other countries in South America are told to be very careful when they come to cities like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, etc.
My Colombian friend was robbed at gun point in Houston, something that has never happened to him in Colombia.
So, as you see, it depends on many things. You just need to be careful, no matter where you are.
Comment by Mika F — August 8, 2009 @ 11:56 am
As many advised just use common sense.Sorry Charlie to contradict you, but do not read the state department website or you’ll stay home. It is the most laugh at source of information when you live overseas. Not just for Colombia either. It is a paranoiac report written by security people whose main function is to sustain their job by creating fear. ask any one who has had Embassy jobs. they will tell you that they are held hostage during the duration of their tour, by that machine
Comment by robert l — August 10, 2009 @ 10:06 pm
for the last time; its spelled COLOMBIA!!!
Comment by Sneaky — August 13, 2009 @ 8:13 pm