Culture & Identity of Colombia
WARNING: Drug trafficking violence is a risk in Colombia, please read this travel warning before going!
Introduction
About three quarters of Colombia's population lives in cities, but the rural landscapes, including the mountains and eastern jungles are home to another quarter. This diversity in landscape also dictates the way of life, culture, and even occupations for the people depending on where they are located.
For those with a regular job, such as one in the services industry, in an office, or a factory, the day's schedule is fairly regulated, but for those living in the jungles or mountains, life may revolve more heavily on the land and the weather so every day varies. For those with regular jobs, many wake up as early as 5:30 am to get breakfast then head off to work or school. In most of the cities people tend to take public transportation to get to these places, but in more rural areas bikes are more common as is walking. Work and school generally take a break at about noon for lunch and perhaps a nap. Work picks back up in mid-afternoon and goes until the early evening when most families again unite.
Evenings and weekends are often spent with family as most families gather together for an evening meal. Weekends experience much of the same, although going out with friends (especially for the younger generation) and taking in a meal at a restaurant, going to a bar, or watching a movie are also options, although few people partake in these activities on a regular basis. More common is relaxing and socializing or playing a sport like soccer (football).