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Security and Safety
Armenia is located in the Department of
Quindío, in the coffee-growing region of Columbia ”Eje Cafetero”.
Bordering the Department of Quindío is the Department of
Risaralda where Pereira is located. The Convention Centre where
the GSR, GILF and RA will take place is located mid-way between
Armenia and Pereira.
The Departments of Eje Cafetero (Quindío,
Risaralda and Caldas) are considered by the United Nations
Department of Safety and Security as one of the safest areas of
Colombia (July 2011), at the same level as Cartagena, a very
touristic destination and venue for major conferences and events.
Nonetheless, standard travel tips should be
observed:
1. It
is advisable to use only pre-booked taxis from the hotel
concierge, restaurant or store or from the General information
desk of the venue and stay in groups or by phoning a reputable
taxi company. You might also wish to note the license plate,
company and other ID of the taxi.
2. Avoid
the use of cash dispensers (ATMs) in the streets or in public
areas. Please note that there will be an ATM at the Venue for
participants.
3. Be
vigilant at all times and avoid unnecessary display of wealth in
public places, particularly when walking. Avoid walking alone,
especially at night.
In addition, to ensure the best possible
conditions for the GSR, GILF and the Regulatory associations
meeting, special security arrangements have been undertaken by
the host country. The following advice for participants is
provided:
4. Travel
between Bogotá and Armenia/ Pereira to be done by air.
5. Participants
will be assisted by the official travel agency, Gema Tours, for
their transfers between Bogotá and Armenia or Pereira, provided
they have informed Gema Tours of their flight details
6. During
the events, bus shuttles are being organized for participants
between every official hotel and the Events venue and between
the Venue and social events locations. Participants are
encouraged to use the shuttles
7.
While no vaccination or vaccination certificate is
required, it is recommended to take precautions against malaria,
hepatitis, meningitis and yellow fever. In particular,
vaccination is recommended for diphtheria and tetanus, avoid raw
food such as salad, drink bottled water which can be obtained in
all hotels and restaurants and in shops (although tap water is
treated).
On-site medical services will be provided
for the duration of the Meetings, twenty-four (24) hours per day,
including medical transportation. |
