Safety Tips
What you should know
Money
First, for foreign visitors, Colombians often refer to "money" as "plata" (silver) and "cash" as "efectivo" (cash). There are many places to exchange currency, but it's usually cheaper to withdraw money directly from the ATMs (cajeros) located throughout Santa Marta, which accept international cards.
It's worth checking the withdrawal fees and exchange rates, as each bank offers different conditions. The green ATMs at ServiBanco and Bancodavivienda allow withdrawals of up to 2 million pesos (about US$1,000). When the ATM asks if you "accept the conversion rate," it's just a way of charging additional fees. There's no harm in declining this offer, as the exchange rate is the same and you'll save money.
Another option is to transfer money to Colombia. The most popular and expensive options are Western Union, PayPal, Xoom, and MoneyGram. However, there are cheaper and easier-to-use apps, such as Remitly, World Remit and Sendwave.
To send money to friends or family in Colombia, there are two well-known systems with multiple locations: Efecty and SuperGirosThey have independent locations, kiosks in supermarkets like Olímpica, and most Servientrega offices. Only one transfer fee is charged. The sender must present identification (foreign or Colombian) and their national ID number.
Another option is the banking correspondents, located in supermarkets and drugstores such as Carulla, Olímpica, and Éxito. There are also independent Bancolombia correspondents in almost every neighborhood. Nequi, an app affiliated with Bancolombia, is widely used because many people don't have a bank account. There are also correspondents for Daviplata (Bancodavivienda), although in smaller numbers. For example, Farmatodo has a Daviplata correspondent.
To transfer to a Bancolombia account, you only need the account number and specify whether it's a savings or checking account. For Nequi, the recipient's cell phone number is usually used. For Daviplata, the account number is required.
A third option is to use a multi-function ATM (located next to Bancolombia branches) to make deposits.
Deposits can also be made directly at a bank branch, although this may require a 30- to 60-minute wait.
NoteA foreign visitor with a tourist visa cannot open a bank account in Colombia or use Nequi or Daviplata. A visa and a Colombian cell phone number are required.
Julio Méndez Barreneche University Hospital
Cra 14 #23-42, Commune 4.
Telephone: (605) 4365007.
Metropolitan Police of Santa Marta
Phone:
54380023.
Emergencies
Ambulance: 132
Firefighters: 119
Tourists in Santa Marta rarely experience violent crime. Tourism is the main economic driver, so security is highly prioritized. However, as everywhere, there are exceptions.
In April, an Italian tourist was murdered, likely in a robbery gone wrong. There was also an attack by the Gulf Clan on the Rodadero police station. This sparked the "Pistol Plan," which resulted in the murder of more than 30 police officers in other parts of the country.
Although worrying, most tourists won't know this is happening, as it doesn't affect tourist areas.
One way to avoid risks like that of the Italian tourist is don't use dating apps like Tinder or Grindr. This is how he was tricked, drugged, robbed, and murdered.
Most visitors who use common sense will have no problems.
What is common sense?
- Don’t give away “papaya” (be an easy target).
- Do not use your cell phone on the street or within reach of a motorcycle.
- Do not leave your phone on the table in nightclubs.
- Use a kangaroo or front pocket for your cell phone and wallet.
- Leave a reservation card and cash at the hotel.
- Have two accounts with different cards in case one is lost or cloned.
It is also advisable to have an account with a backup balance at another bank. Some banks, such as Charles Schwab allow international withdrawals free of charge.
Because of the amount of information our cell phones contain, losing one can be very stressful. That's why it's helpful to have a second cell phone with backup of contacts and information, stored at the hotel.
- Travel Groups
Families
Lower risk, as they travel in groups, in tourist areas, and tend to go to bed early.
Women alone or in a couple
It is best to stay in public places at night and watch your drinks.
Single men
Greater risk due to greater exposure.
- Do not use dating apps.
- Always ask a woman's age before speaking.
- Never invite two women at the same time.
- Take a photo of your ID or register it at the reception desk.
- Control what is eaten and drunk in the apartment.
- Clarify any payments in advance.
NoteSex work is legal in Colombia. If there's a disagreement over payment, the police can be called.
Drugs: Cannabis use in small amounts is legal in private settings. Avoid other drugs.
STDsThere is currently an alarming number of HIV cases in Santa Marta. Take precautions.
Treatment for jellyfish stings
Although rare, it can happen. They are very painful. Apply baking soda and salt water. Don't touch gelatinous objects on the beach; they could be dead jellyfish that still have active venom.
