This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Bogotá.
Bogotá is Colombia's bustling capital city, located more than two thousand five hundred feet above sea level. Bogotá offers something different than other cities in Colombia. Temperatures are cool in the evenings but pleasant during the day. Despite a lack of amazing sights to see, Bogotá has some excellent museums, most of which have free entry. The Gold Museum (Museo de Oro) is a must-visit for anyone coming to stay in Bogotá and landing in the country sometimes known as El Dorado. The Botero Museum has paintings by Fernando Botero -- he painted pictures of fat people in a cartoon-like style! The Police Museum is another interesting free attraction -- most interesting is the exhibition on the capture of perhaps Colombia's most famous person, the international drug smuggler, Pablo Escobar.
The cable car up to Monserrate mountain is worth it, but try to go on a clear day so that you can appreciate the enormity of the sprawling capital. If you want a really memorable experience, go to a football match -- you will see real passion from the Colombians as you join them in the stands to sing songs you don't even know the words to! A bicycle tour is a good way to see Bogotá; these are organised daily. Keep in mind that it's a little more difficult at altitude though. There are many possible day trips from your Bogotá hostel to places of interest outside the city, such as the salt cathedral at Chia.
The city area of La Candelaria is where most Bogotá hostels are located. There are many new hostels that have opened their doors in the last few years. The area is also popular with students and has hundreds of small bars inside every few doorways. Colombia's nightlife is what draws so many people to the country -- coupled with the friendly Bogotá locals, it makes for a great night out. That is why so many people refer to Colombia as Loco-mbia! Tasty street food is also on offer in La Candelaria. Bogotá is an interesting city to visit and has plenty to keep tourists entertained.
Written by local enthusiast for Bogotá hostels
RayJ
