Police, Medical, Money
Police
There are several police stations around La Candelaria: One on La Jimenez, near 5th Ave., a larger one at the upper end of La Jimenez, near University of the Andes’ medical school. (That’s where you fill out reports for stolen items.) The police often also park a van near the Plaza del Chorro. Call: 286-0744.
Safety, unfortunately, is a real issue in La Candelaria. The neighborhood is surrounded by poor neighborhoods, into which thieves escape. Be aware of who is around you, especially at night. If possible, walk in a group, and don’t set yourself up for a mugging by walking alone at night drunk! It’s not a good idea to go walking in the Egipto neighborhood above La Candelaria or the Belén neighborhood to its south.
Medical
The large hospital nearest to La Candelaria is (On 7th Ave., at 40th St.) located on the campus of La Javeriana, a large Catholic University. The hospital has an emergency room. But to see a specialist may take several days.
For an English-speaking M.D., you may have to go to north Bogotá – but you’ll pay more, as well.
Money
Very few local stores accept dollars or other foreign currencies. A few local banks change money. You’ll find many banks and ATMs along 7th Ave. and the Eje Ambiental. There is also an ATM located on the campus of the Universidad Externado. Walk up 12th St. into campus and up the stairs. It’s on your right. There are two money exchange places (casas de cambio) just east of the Museo de Oro Transmilenio station, which is located at the intersection of La Jimenez and 7th Ave. There, you’ll also find guys in the street who change money – risk it if you want to!
Location
Press
