Be aware in Colombia

This item appears on page 67 of the June 2014 issue.

The US Department of State stated that, though security in Colombia has improved significantly in recent years, violence linked to narcotrafficking continues to affect some rural areas and parts of large cities. Explosions, including some in Bogota, occur throughout Colombia on a regular basis. 

Although the incidence of kidnapping in Colombia has diminished significantly from its peak in 2000, it remains a threat, particularly in rural areas. Civilians, including foreigners, continue to be kidnapped and held for ransom or as political bargaining chips.