Expat Community > Colombia

soystar1
Joined 2012
Posts: 504

Funny money

10 years ago

I have always been careful with money. But I am still susceptible, to funny money scams. Mainly, because I am rather confident in my opinion that it can not happen to me. Wrong! And yes, it can occur at any time. One of the first experiences of 'funny money' was in Santa Marta. It was night and I handed the taxi cab driver 20k pesos and he handed me back my change and sped off. No doubt laughing all they way as this Gringo had been given money with a mixture of sand paper.

Here in Armenia, I have also fallen prey to the two thousand peso trap several times. It appears that most Colombians will hold up the two thousand peso bill up to the light and if the water mark of the president does not appear. It is then considered funny money and they will abruptly tell you this.

It has taken me some time to check any two- k note's before the person speeds off or acts if they know or doesn't know that it's funny money.

TIP: always hold the money up to the light and have the driver or the person wait for you to check the bills. No watermark. No dice. The locals also tell me to rub the watermark area for a gradient feel to it. I really can't tell you if this holds true or not with with bills being so worn out.

Also, do not accept any money that is on the fringe of falling apart. Most people will not accept this type of money. I have heard that you can exchange such bills in the bank but it's such a waste of time for small bills.

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Living in Colombia Guide

Expats in Colombia discuss the pros and cons of living in Colombia. From the Colombian people to driving to taxes and more. As challenging as it can be, expats in Colombia clearly find that there is a lot to love about a country that is a surprising expat hot spot.

Colombia Forum
Join our Colombia forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Colombia.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.

Best Places to Live in Colombia

If you're considering a move to Colombia, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Colombia in 2023.

Healthcare in Colombia

Our guide to healthcare in Colombia covers public and private healthcare in Colombia, hospitals, vaccinations, prescription medications and more.

Cost of Living in Colombia

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Colombia.

Moving to Colombia Guide

With its bustling cities, beautiful beaches and friendly Colombians, Colombia is an increasingly popular destination for expats of all ages. Expats in Colombia offer insightful tips for those moving to Colombia.

Real Estate in Colombia

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Colombia.

Pros & Cons of Living in Colombia

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Colombia.

Retiring in Colombia

Advice for people retiring in Colombia.

10 Tips for Living in Colombia

If you've recently arrived in Colombia, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Colombia.

Additional Information:

Visit our Colombia Index for a Full List

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Colombia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.

Login

Or, Send Login Link

Expat Community > Colombia

Funny money

Login