Is Colombia Safe?

Colombia has an unfortunate reputation. Many people associate it with drugs, cartels and Pablo Escobar.

The truth is that there is a lot more to Colombia than any of that. I think it's time for people to shed their assumptions about Colombia and find out what it's really like here.

I came to Colombia for the first time in 2010. Back then, I didn't speak much Spanish and I was traveling alone.

I spent four years off and on here. I've mostly been based out of Medellín. I've also traveled all over Colombia, from as far north as the coast and as far south as the border with Ecuador. Since I prefer overland travel, most of my journey has been on a bus.

A couple of weeks ago I moved back to Medellín from Miami and am now living here with my husband and 3-year-old.

One of the first questions people always ask us is: "Is Colombia safe?"

In my opinion, safety isn't necessarily a black and white matter. I've traveled all over the world and been to places that are just plain scary. Colombia isn't one of them.

There are safe and unsafe parts in almost every place on earth. Colombia is no different.

In this video, we share our perspectives about safety in Colombia (and specifically Medellín). We share some safety tips, things to do and not do, and what one of the most famous Colombia phrases no dar papaya means.

If you have any questions about staying safe in Colombia, let me know in the comments.