I will be venturing down to South America on a contract for work,
specifically to Medellin, Colombia, for a couple months starting April 27.
I will likely be traversing to Bogota, Cartagena, and Caracas and possibly
(hopefully) some other places of interest too that won't annihilate my
already bruised and battered bank account (oh, but South Africa was worth
it!). I am planning to meet some friends vacationing in Costa Rica in May
too.
I understand safety is a concern and that common sense and awareness will
come in to play once again. It sounds like the drug cartel activity has
calmed down but guerilla warfare and kidnappings have not. Any safety
tips, particularly on driving or travelling in general would be most
helpful. I imagine I will be alone quite a bit of the time down there,
which did not bother me when I was in S. Africa for 3 months. But I
obviously want to be aware of places definitely *not* to go alone, and
where *not* to drive alone.
Also, any must see's, travel discounts, travel agents, and other travel
tips for South America, particularly the Northwest, are appreciated. I am
compiling a list and want to make sure I don't leave anything out! I don't
know if I'll have enough time to go into Brazil or Peru at all, but I may
end up back down there later.
I have some Lonely Planet guides that have been helpful and am surfing the
net for additional info as well. But I find that sometimes the best info
comes from locals or people with first hand experience travelling to and
around the destination.
Thank you!
Karen