Santa Fe, Hotel San Francisco
[QUOTE=SoberHans69;2408642]
I plan on staying close to Santa Fe, is it safe to walk around the area where the San Francisco hotel is for example as I love to do lots of walking?
Also I have read many times not to use your phone in Santa Fe. If someone doesn't speak any Spanish, what's the best way to negotiate with the SW's if you can't use Google translate on your phone?
Thanks.[/QUOTE]Have stayed at the hotel San Francisco a couple of times. Even the front desk people will tell you it is NOT safe to walk around outside after dark. During the day it is generally safe, but I have been followed and bothered by skanky pesty men in that area during the daytime also. I have also been warned not to take the street taxis because the drivers will take the wrong route on purpose to run up the tab, however the hotel designated taxi drivers will try to overcharge too by not using a meter and quoting you a gringo price when you get out. This is the tourist problem.
I recommend you stay at Hotel Museo IBIS pronounced "EEBEE". The rooms are much nicer and about the same price, there are restaurants downstairs that are quite good and a Crepes and Waffles around the corner. The area is somewhat safer and you can visit the museum right across the street, however the hotel concierge "white taxi" drivers will try to overcharge there, it has been my experience, I would recommend you stay away from them and use the street taxi drivers.
Taxis. To each their own & Walking. Be smart
It always depends on the person's comfort level. For those unfamiliar with Bogota, Uber is good because you will know the price approximately when you order. The same for Beat and Didi, but the prices are better. Taxis are okay for short distances and if you are concerned about being taken for a ride, use the car services. Car services are also easier if you don't speak much Spanish. The advantage of taxis is that when they are available immediately, you don't have to wait a long time for a car servie. Also, there is no surge pricing which is becoming increasingly annoying.
Taxis have a meter. You check the double to low triple digit number against "un carta" and then add additional prices like COP 2,000 for arriving after 8 pm or Sunday & Holiday rides or to and from the airport COP 4,000. The taxi driver can also press the meter and it gives a price. Be careful though. I have seen the meter include extras and then the driver asks for the extra again. The additional costs are in a small box on the bottom left of the card.
Also note, Bogota's traffic is organized to make cars go strange routs because left turns crossing over opposing traffic are generally not permitted. Then again, going a few blocks out of the way for this will ring up an extra 10 c - 25 c. Don't sweat it.
Last, especially if you are not familiar with any city, take advice about not walking around in areas that look shady and just as importantly, isolated. In Bogota, a taxi ride for 10 blocks at night will cost you $1. 75. Why sweat it? Just use your instincts and err on the side of caution.