Drugs and Toiletries
Drugstores in Colombia carry a wide range of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products (there are many manufacturers of these products in the country), and almost all offer home delivery (nice!). In addition, many “prescription” drugs from North America are sold as over-the-counter items here. Let us know if you need any special medications, and we will inform you of its availability here. Contraceptive medication is available; however, your brand might not be; therefore, it is suggested that you ask the school first and be prepared to bring down a supply if you use them. If you have current prescriptions for medications, bring those along as well. It will make it easier to get ones from a Colombian doctor (which you will need at the drugstore).
Recent imports have said that vitamins are expensive here, and you may wish to bring down a supply if you use them. In addition, contact lens solutions, of the same type available in the U.S. and Canada, is expensive.
Ordinary cosmetics (make-up, nail polish, shampoos, etc.) are readily available here, although many teachers have been known to bring a year’s supply of their favorite cosmetics (Lancôme, for example) with them.