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Transportation in Bogota

I continue to gather info for my probable trip to Colombia. And again thank you for your feedback.

I will need for sure a car in Bogota. I will stay for a few months. Is this idea feasable? Can I get a decent deal in enting a car or better to forget about this option?

Another issue is the driver's license. Did anyone of you has problems there with your "national" driver's license? Need any "international" version or any other local permit?

I ask these because I will have to use the car extensively in Bogota.

By bogdan on Apr 18, 2007, 00:23 in Travel tips.

thur says on Apr 18, 2007, 01:18:

Why? No experience on renting a car, but I've read it can be pretty expensive. Why are you sure you'll be needing a car anyway? Even if it is for a few months; the low costs of public transportation and their ample availability (Transmilenio, buses -in all forms and sizes- and taxis) may have you think twice about renting a car (and driving it in the chaos and traffic jams).
Greetings,

~ UPDATE ~
www.pbase.com/thur

- pbase.com/thur

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Robert Jorge says on Apr 18, 2007, 04:16:

One of the cool things about Colombia is that you don't need a car. And I heard the same thing Thur said. Rentals are expensive. If you try and buy a car ... well, knock yourself out. No time to explain right now.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

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bogdan says on Apr 18, 2007, 05:59:

Yes, you are right. But my trip implies also some business prospection, meetings with potential clients. So it's a little awkward to step down from the bus and to go to the meeting. I have to carry laptop, etc. I also don't like the idea of spending so much money, but I see no other alternative. On some official sites I read that in Colombia they don't recognize all driver's licenses. That's why I try to find out what about.

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juanalejo says on Apr 18, 2007, 06:45:

License Your driver´s license is valid as long as your entry visa status is also valid. That as long as you do not become a legal resident, then you must get a Colombian driver´s license. Renting a car is a hazzle, but there are plenty of car and drivers that you can hire for about the same prize as a rental car, and it takes away from having to look for parking and pico y placa (car restriction hours).

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bogdan says on Apr 18, 2007, 06:55:

Thiis is an excellent solution. Can I find car+driver from some specialized companies or I have to trust ome private persons?

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juanalejo says on Apr 23, 2007, 18:47:

Tourist Taxis are the first option, if not contact Mr. Harker at 311 440 7152 or Mr. Delgado at 311 882 2430 or Mr. Vela at 310 860 9494. They are two that I know of with private cars. Hotels can also help you out with that.

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