THE is committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive and enjoyable experience for all our delegates.

To help you prepare for your upcoming visit, we encourage you to review the key information and travel advice below.

Before traveling, we recommend checking the travel guidelines and recommendations from your home country's embassy. Additionally, we advise consulting your primary care provider to determine whether any vaccinations or other health preparations are needed for your trip.

University of la Costa
Calle 58 #55–66
Barranquilla 080002
Colombia

Some delegates may require a visa to enter the country. Please note that it can take several weeks to process a visa application so early application is recommended.

 Check if you require a visa

We can provide visa invitation letters for ticket holders when requested. Please email a photo/scan of your passport to events@timeshighereducation.com once you have booked your ticket.

We cannot accept any responsibility for visa applications. Where a delegate is unable to attend because of failure to obtain a visa on time, the normal cancellation policy for the ticket fee will apply.

We recommend having travel insurance for the duration of your trip. Please contact your travel agent for further details.

Delegates are responsible for reserving and covering the cost of accommodation for the duration of their stay. Below you will find the recommended event hotel, along with a map that makes it easy to browse other hotels near the venue.

Estelar Alto Prado Hotel

Calle 76 #56 29, Barranquilla 800001

This contemporary 5-star hotel features two restaurants, an outdoor pool, sun terrace and gym. Located just 17 km from Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, it offers free parking and a taxi service.

We have secured the discounted price of COP 350,000/night (~US$93). To book, click on the black pin on the map below.

NH Collection Barranquilla Smartsuites Royal

Calle 80 #51B-25, Barranquilla 80001

This 4-star hotel with stunning views of the Magdalena River features a restaurant and bar, a rooftop pool, gym and summer terrace. , parking and airport shuttle. Located just 17 km from Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, it offers free parking and an airport shuttle for just US$19.

We have secured the discounted price of COP 235,000/night (~US$63). To book, click on the black pin on the map below.

To protect your personal safety we recommend:

• avoiding having valuables on show
• taking safe and reliable transport
• travelling with colleagues or other delegates, especially at night
• being alert in crowded and tourist areas, airports, restaurants, pubs and bars and on public transport
• keeping your card in sight and concealing your PIN when using ATMs and paying by card

Colombia's main emergency service number is 123. Call this number if you need urgent help from police, fire or ambulance services.

What is the main language?
The main language spoken in Colombia is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in business and commerce.

Which currency can I use?
Colombia’s currency is the Colombian peso (COP). US dollars and Euros might be accepted in some major tourist hotels, but it is recommended to use local currency for nearly all transactions to ensure the best rates and avoid issues. While most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, it is a good idea to have some cash on you (especially small change). ATMs are easily accessible in most shopping malls, petrol stations and supermarkets.

Which plug socket is used?
Colombia uses type A and B plug sockets with two flat pins. The standard voltage is 110 V at a frequency of 60 Hz. We would recommend bringing a universal adapter.

Will wi-fi be available?
Free wi-fi is available throughout the venue's buildings. Connection details will be displayed at the check-in desk.

Are there data roaming charges?
You will need to check the exact charges with your network provider but most international delegates will incur high data roaming charges. We recommend buying an eSIM via Airalo which gives you 1GB of data for 7 days for US$4.50. Use our referral code TIMESH7718 for US$3 off. We recommend checking that your phone supports eSIMs before making your purchase.

Is tap water safe to drink?
Tap water in Barranquilla is generally not considered safe to drink, so bottled water is recommended.

Do you have any guidance for LGBTQ+ delegates?
Homosexuality is legal and it is illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. For more information and advice for LGBTQ+ travellers, visit the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association's website.