Columbia: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back

For the past ten years, Bogotá, Colombia's status in the world has improved significantly. Urban planners have worked to develop the capital city and mayors initiated beneficial changes of all types. It has been nothing short of an urban "mecca", and some even claim to U.S. Americans that it would be a smart housing location choice. However, despite these rapid improvements, the city is still subject to difficulty.

One of the main problems is the large number of significant construction projects in the area. Since these projects are simultaneous, the city is victim to chaos, particularly traffic chaos. Another problem is the rising fear of violent crime. Even though the city is safer than it was before its improvements, recent reports of murders, robberies, assaults, kidnappings, and car bombs make residents scared for their safety.

Tourists are also afraid. Recent assaults of tourists could dissuade travelers from visiting the capital of Columbia. Interestingly, much to the discourse on crime revolves around the TransMilenio, which is the public transportation system in Bogotá. Not only is it overcrowded and delayed due to its popularity, but it has become a central location for crimes, particularly robbery and violent protests. It will be interesting to see how this affects the country's tourism industry and its economy as a whole.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/06/world/americas/06bogota.html?ref=world

-Gracie Hollister