Theft of hand luggage and travel documents at airports is common, particularly at El Dorado Airport in Bogota. Taking illegal taxis, which are sometimes characterized by a driver and a companion and irregular markings, is dangerous. Getting into a taxi which already has one or more passengers is not advisable. Travel by bus is risky. Attempts at extortion and kidnappings on rural buses are not unusual.
Violence occurs frequently in bars and nightclubs.
The drug renders the person disoriented and can cause prolonged unconsciousness and serious medical problems. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. U.S. citizens arrested in Colombia for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs have experienced several months detention in jail before their cases are processed, followed by lengthy trials, fines and jail sentences served in sub-standard prisons. Colombian law prohibits tourists and business travelers from importing or bringing firearms into Colombia. Traffic laws and lights are often ignored, particularly during late night and early morning hours, and speed limits are usually non-existent.