OVERALL RISK:
MEDIUM
The medium-risk might seem odd, but it takes into consideration the fact that Barranquilla normally provides an important cultural experience and a peaceful area. Currently, civil unrest has made Colombia a dangerous place to visit overall. The State Department issues its rankings based upon the danger to Americans. Residents of other countries may find the government and militia groups of Colombia more amenable to them. Long a seat of major drug cartel activity, organized crime has overtaken the country. Throughout the country, its own people have experienced increased levels of homicide, extortion, armed robbery, and kidnapping. Although the government signed a peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), it contains many break-off factions that have refused to demobilize. The rival National Liberation Army (ELN) continues to plot terrorist attacks within the country, especially within tourist areas, government facilities, religious locations, hotels, and transportation hubs.