All major credit cards will work in Colombia. Your Canadian debit card will also be accepted at the ATMs. Some people find lower fees when using a Davivienda machine. The major banks are Bancolombia, Davivienda, BBVA, and Colpatria/Scotiabank. Tipping is usually included on the bill at a restaurant, typically at a rate of 8-10%. Tipping is not customary for any other services, but it is welcome. 10-15% is considered generous.

Yes! Barranquilla has the best drinking water in Colombia, with a 0% risk according to studies by the National Health Institute (INS). I also bought my own water testing kit when I first moved here, and it was spot on. I've been drinking tap water for the past three years with no issues. However, water is not free in Colombia, so it is NOT normal to receive water at a restaurant. You will always have to buy water or a drink.

Getting around Colombia is easy! Uber works, but I recommend downloading the InDriver app because it's often cheaper than Uber. You will also see several yellow taxis on the road, and you can always hail a cab. If you plan to spend a week here and are looking for day trips, the major bus companies to consider are Transport Marsol and Berlinas. They run every 30 minutes from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week, 365 days a year. You can buy a bus ticket at the station. Cash or card is accepted to buy your ticket! We are looking into arranging transport for everyone from the airport, and we will have cars running all night to take you to and from the wedding. More details to come!

COPA, Avianca, and American Airlines offer flights to Barranquilla with layovers in Panama, Miami, or Toronto. You can land at BAQ and grab a taxi right outside the terminal. Do not pay more than 50,000 pesos! Air Transat also offers direct flights from YUL to CTG on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. From there, it's a 2-hour drive to Barranquilla. A private car costs about $60 CAD and can be booked via the InDriver App. Alternatively, you can buy a bus ticket for 40,000 pesos (approximately 12 CAD) one way from Berlinas or Marsol.

The most important thing is that you feel pretty and comfy! There is no strict dress code. If you already have an outfit in mind, that's great! If you need inspiration, please click here. The only rule is not to wear a white dress or a full white suit (duh); white dress shirts are fine. Remember, Barranquilla is hot, so dress for the heat. The ceremony and desserts will take place outside. However, dinner and dancing will be indoors with AC.

My personal favorite salons are Paloma Estética, MakeupMe Studio, and Carlos Zambrano. Once I confirm my own hair and makeup, I'll let you know if there's room for you to get yours done and what the price is.

Yes! All children are welcome to attend the full wedding. If you're looking for suggestions for nannies in Barranquilla, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Most visits go without incident. As long as you stay alert, follow basic safety practices, and trust your instincts, you should be just fine. Remember to always confirm taxi prices before getting in, unless you have booked through an app.

Of course! I would never invite you to a place that wasn't safe. Just use common sense, as always. Do not wander alone late at night. Do not wear flashy jewelry. You can use your cellphone for Google Maps and taking pictures, but be aware of your surroundings. Petty theft is more common, but other than that, you don't have to worry about anything crazy.

The emergency number in Colombia is 123.

The top hospitals in Barranquilla are the Hospital de la Cari, renowned for its attentive care and experience treating international patients, and Clínica Portoazul, a state-of-the-art medical center recognized for its high standards and modern facilities. Although not mandatory, arranging travel insurance in advance can ensure smooth access to medical care if needed.

Internet and Data are very cheap here! You can get a prepaid SIM card at almost any Tienda (corner store). You can also visit Buenavista Mall or Viva Mall and find Wom, Claro, or Tigo to purchase a SIM card. Most restaurants and malls will have free Wi-Fi.

No! Most people will not speak English here, even at the airport. Use Google Translate! Everyone is very nice and helpful, but if you have trouble communicating in Spanish, it's best to type what you need into Google Translate and show them your phone.