Colombia has been calling my name, and perhaps as early as this summer, I may have an opportunity to make it happen! As The Flight Attendant Nextdoor, I love planning quick getaways that maximize adventure, culture, and affordability. If you’re thinking about visiting Colombia for a weekend trip from the East Coast, keep reading for my top inspirational travel tips, fast flight options, safety insights, must-try activities, budget-friendly hotels, and delicious eats that fit my dietary needs (perhaps yours too)!
Fastest Flights to Colombia from the Northeast
When time is limited, direct flights or short layovers are key! Here are some of the fastest airline options for a quick weekend trip from the Northeast:
Avianca – Offers direct flights from New York (JFK) and Washington, D.C. (IAD) to Bogotá (BOG) in about 5 hours.
American Airlines – Provides quick routes from Philadelphia (PHL) and New York (JFK) to Medellín (MDE) and Cartagena (CTG) with minimal layovers.
JetBlue – Great for non-stop flights from New York (JFK) to Bogotá (BOG) and Cartagena (CTG), often under 5.5 hours.
Spirit Airlines – Budget-friendly, with flights from Newark (EWR) and Baltimore (BWI) to Bogotá and Medellín.
For a weekend getaway, I’d leave on a Thursday night or early Friday morning and return Sunday night or Monday morning to make the most of my time!
Is Colombia Safe for African American Female Travelers?
Safety is always a priority, and from my research and experiences of other travelers, Colombia is generally safe, but like any destination, it requires situational awareness. Here’s what I plan to keep in mind:
Stay in well-populated areas like El Poblado (Medellín), Getsemaní (Cartagena), or Zona T (Bogotá).
Use trusted transportation like Uber or hotel-arranged taxis instead of hailing cabs on the street.
Blend in by avoiding flashy jewelry and keeping valuables secure.
Be aware of nightlife safety – stick to reputable bars and clubs and always watch your drink.
Connect with locals or expat communities for tips on current safety conditions.
Top Activities to Try in Colombia (With Estimated Costs)
Colombia offers breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and incredible history. Here’s what’s on my must-do list:
Explore Cartagena’s Walled City ($0-$10) – Walk through the colorful streets, visit lively plazas, and take in the historic charm. Guided walking tours cost around $10.
Hike to Guatapé & El Peñol ($5-$20) – Climb the 700+ steps of El Peñol for stunning views. Entrance fees are about $5, and transportation from Medellín costs around $10-$15.
Visit Comuna 13 in Medellín ($0-$15) – Once a dangerous neighborhood, now a street art paradise full of culture and history. Free to visit, but guided tours cost around $10-$15.
Relax on Rosario Islands ($25-$40) – Crystal-clear Caribbean waters just off Cartagena’s coast. Boat tours range from $25-$40.
Try Colombian Coffee in the Zona Cafetera ($5-$20) – Experience the best coffee culture in Salento or Manizales with coffee tours costing around $10-$20.
Take a Mud Bath at El Totumo Volcano ($10-$20) – Enjoy a unique spa experience in a natural volcanic mud bath. Entry and transport cost around $15.
Ride the Medellín Metrocable ($3-$5) – See breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains for just a few dollars.
Visit Tayrona National Park ($10-$20) – Stunning beaches and hiking trails with entrance fees around $10-$20.
Dance Salsa in Cali ($5-$15) – Experience the salsa capital of the world by taking a class or enjoying a live music venue.
Affordable Hotels in Colombia (Under $75/Night)
Great stays don’t have to break the bank! Here are some top-rated, budget-friendly hotels:
Cartagena – Hotel Ayenda 1801 ($50-$70) – Near the historic district with great amenities.
Medellín – Hotel 574 ($65) – Stylish, modern, and well-located in El Poblado.
Bogotá – Selina La Candelaria ($40-$60) – Trendy and perfect for solo travelers.
Santa Marta – Masaya Hostel ($60) – A boutique stay with a pool and rooftop views.
What Can I Eat in Colombia? (No Shellfish or Pork!)
Colombian cuisine is rich, diverse, and full of flavor, and luckily, there are plenty of options without pork or shellfish. Here are my must-try dishes:
Bandeja Paisa (Without Pork) – A hearty platter with grilled beef, rice, beans, plantains, and avocado.
Ajiaco ($5-$10) – A delicious chicken and potato soup, perfect for Bogotá’s cool weather.
Arepas de Choclo ($2-$5) – Sweet corn cakes, often served with cheese.
Empanadas (With Chicken or Beef) ($1-$3) – A popular street food snack.
Fresh Fruit Juices ($2-$4) – Colombia is known for exotic fruits like lulo, maracuyá, and guanábana.
Currency Exchange & Shopping Tips
Exchanging money and shopping in Colombia can be simple and budget-friendly with these tips:
Use ATMs for the Best Exchange Rates – Avoid currency exchange kiosks at the airport, as they often have higher fees.
Withdraw in Colombian Pesos (COP) to Save on Fees – Many businesses prefer cash, so carrying small bills is helpful.
Use a No-Fee Travel Credit Card – Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture avoid foreign transaction fees.
Best Shopping Finds:
Emerald Jewelry – Bogotá is known for some of the world’s finest emeralds.
Handwoven Mochila Bags – Made by the Wayuu indigenous people, these colorful bags are a great souvenir.
Colombian Coffee – Buy fresh beans from local coffee farms or specialty shops.
Artisan Goods in Cartagena’s Las Bóvedas Market – A great place for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Final Thoughts: Ready for Takeoff!
Colombia is full of adventure, beauty, and culture, making it the perfect weekend escape from the Northeast. With my flight perks, careful planning, and a list of must-dos, I can’t wait to explore everything this amazing country has to offer.
Have you been to Colombia? Drop your best travel tips and recommendations in the comments! Stay tuned for updates on my trip.
#FlightAttendantNextdoor #Colombia2025 #BudgetTravel
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