We are so excited to celebrate with you in Barranquilla, Colombia — a vibrant Caribbean city full of music, flavor, and charm. While the bride may be the only one who knows it well, by the end of your trip you’ll feel like a true “Currambero” (that’s what locals call themselves!).

To help you prepare for the adventure, we’ve put together everything you need to know — from safety tips to must-try foods, transportation hacks, and even where to exchange your dollars for pesos. Think of this as your ultimate wedding-weekend travel guide.

Barranquilla is warm and tropical year-round, with average temperatures in the 90s°F (30-32°C). Pack light, breathable clothing.

The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). It's best to exchange money at the hotel, airport or use an international credit card for convenience.

Currency: Colombian Pesos (COP). $1 USD ≈ 3,800 COP (but fluctuates).

Credit Cards: Accepted almost everywhere (Visa/Mastercard more than AmEx).

ATMs: Widely available, safest at malls and banks.

Tip:

- Restaurants: The standard tip is 10% of the bill, and it's automatically added to your check. You don't need to leave anything extra unless you’d like to.

- Guest Services Attendants (bellhops, hotel staff, etc.): A tip of around $4–5 USD is expected for their assistance. Again, if you feel they went above and beyond, you're welcome to give a little extra.

- Barranquilla is friendly and lively, but like any big city, stay street-smart.

- Keep your phone and other valuables secure while in public places.

- Stick to bottled or filtered water.

- Sunscreen is your best friend — this is the Caribbean!

- The dress code is casual-cool, but the heat is real. Light fabrics, and comfy shoes.

Barranquilla is a foodie’s dream. Don’t leave without tasting:

Arepas de huevo – Fried corn pockets stuffed with egg. Breakfast of champions.

Mojarra frita – Whole fried fish served with coconut rice and plantains.

Chuzo desgranado- Popular Colombian street food, originating in Barranquilla, that consists of a deconstructed meat skewer served in a bowl or on a plate. The name translates to "shelled skewer," referring to the process of removing the grilled meat from its stick and layering it with other ingredients.

Bollo de yuca – Steamed yucca rolls, often paired with salty cheese.

Lebanese Food: Kibbeh, Almond rice, grapes leaves

Limonada de coco – Refreshing tropical drink you’ll crave at home.

Ron Viejo de Caldas or Aguardiente – Local spirits for toasting!

- Manuel - Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants 2023

- Teriyaki - Asian cuisine from Japan, Thailand, Singapour and Vietnam.

- Kinto Elemento - Nikkei Cuisine

- Camacho Burgers- Burgers Restaurant

- Hot El Punto Multiple del Sabor - Comfort food: pizza, steak, mexican, cocktails.

- Narcobollo -Traditional Barranquilla Food

- Nena Lela - Italian Restaurant

- Harrisa- Mediterranean Restaurant

- Let's Dough it- Dessert Shop

- Fit Choices - Healthy Food Shop and Restaurant

Barranquilla is known for its warm, joyful, and welcoming spirit. People here are lively, generous with their smiles, and always ready to dance, laugh, and share a story. Don’t be surprised if strangers treat you like old friends — that’s the true Barranquilla personality.

To connect even more with locals, try a few Spanish phrases. They’ll appreciate the effort, even if your accent isn’t perfect!

Handy Words & Phrases:

- Gracias (GRAH-syahs) – Thank you

- Por favor (por fah-VOR) – Please

- Hola (OH-lah) – Hello

- Una cerveza, por favor (OO-nah ser-VEH-sah, por fah-VOR) – One beer, please

- ¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWAN-toh KWEHS-tah) – How much does it cost?

- Baño (BAHN-yo) – Bathroom

- Sí (see) / No (noh) – Yes / No

A little Spanish + a big smile = instant connection with Barranquilleros! 🌞💃