Don’t give papaya.

Most of the city is safe, with lots of kind and helpful people. There are neighborhoods with poverty and social problems too. Not strange in a country with big differences in income and with a lot of internal refugees. Most are situated in the urban fringe but there are some around the old historic centre of Bogota as well. The neighborhoods are marked with  on the map.

“Don’t give Papaya” is an Colombian expression that  means : watch out not to give the opportunity that other people take advantage of you, by being distracted or not being aware where you keep your valuables or don’t watch your surroundings. Safety in Bogota is good if you follow the rules that makes that you don’t give papaya.

 When you phone on the street be careful be aware of your surroundings

 Don’t phone on buses or be very careful when you do so

 When you take out money from a cash dispenser with a door that can be locked, lock the door behind you.

 Be sure to have your bag or rucksack closed.

Don’t carry your passport but a copy when you are not going out of the city or airport.

Don’t take out your wallet on the street or public transport or be careful when you do so. Put some small money in your pocket in case you need it.