Colombia's Caribbean coast at night: a safety guide for couples

Colombia's Caribbean coast is cheerful and hot, but the night calls for method. This guide summarises the British FCDO travel advice, which does not name Barranquilla or Santa Marta but describes the Caribbean coast as an area with street crime: pickpocketing, mugging and armed robbery. We have not verified any lifestyle club in these cities, so there are no listings here, only judgement.

Transport

Express kidnappings and robberies have happened in unlicensed taxis, sometimes with criminals posing as drivers. The advice recommends licensed services ordered by phone or online, or through the hotel or restaurant, and not hailing taxis in the street. At airports use the authorised booths; official taxis are yellow with white plates.

Drinks and food

Substances such as scopolamine have been used in food, drinks, cigarettes, aerosols and paper flyers, with incidents in nightclubs, bars, restaurants, public transport and streets. Victims can be robbed or sexually assaulted. Do not leave your drink unattended, accept nothing from strangers and seek medical help quickly if you suspect you were drugged, because large amounts can be fatal. Agree between you who stays sober to look after the other.

Money and ATMs

Do not carry much cash or flashy jewellery and watches. Express kidnappings are common, often near ATMs at night: withdraw money during business hours and, if you can, inside a bank, supermarket or shopping centre. Beware of fake police who ask to inspect your money: ask to be escorted to the nearest CAI police post.

Dating apps

The advice describes criminals who use dating apps and websites to lure foreigners, often working in teams. Do not accept invitations to strangers' accommodation or invite strangers to yours; meet in public places and share your location.

Before going to a lifestyle party

Ask who organises it, how attendees are verified, which consent rules apply, what the photo policy is and how someone can leave if they feel uncomfortable. If answers are unclear or they ask for advance payment to a personal account without a verifiable identity, do not go. Drugs: penalties in Colombia are severe; never carry packages for others.

If something goes wrong

Call 123 for an ambulance or emergencies, contact your embassy and your travel insurer. Keep copies of your documents and do not carry everything together.