At the NH Collection Royal Teleport, concierge Ricardo Gutierrez has guided visitors to the best things to do, see and taste in Bogota for four years. Here he offers expert guidance for business travelers visiting Colombia’s capital city.
What should business travelers pack?
Temperatures in Bogota do not change much season to season, but they can vary dramatically during the day. Pack a sweater or jacket to carry with you as you travel around the city so you’ll be ready when temperatures dip. It’s a good idea to have an umbrella handy, too.
What are your top restaurant recommendations for a business lunch or dinner?
I highly recommend Harry Sasson (Carrera 9 No. 75-70; Ph: +571-347-7155). It’s a perfect fit for business travelers because the restaurant offers a nice atmosphere, extraordinary service and a chef´s table for private meetings. My other suggestion is 7•16 (Calle 119B No. 6-28; Ph: +571-213-4271), a steakhouse in a colonial-era mansion. Diners get a feel for Bogota’s history while enjoying delicious local and international cuisine.
What’s one thing that always surprises guests about your hotel?
Guests are surprised to find historical sites so close to our modern, urban hotel. We are walking distance from Usaquén, a district characterized by colonial-style Spanish architecture. Some important buildings include the Santa Barbara church built in 1665 and an old country manor of the same name (now a shopping area).
If business travelers only have a few hours for leisure, what must they see in your city?
They should experience Monserrate, the mountain that dominates the center of Bogota. A three-hour visit to Monserrate offers historic sites, exercise and spectacular views.
What’s the best option for outdoor exercise in your city?
Take a bike tour to get both exercise and information about the city. In addition, Parque El Virrey, popular with locals and tourists, is a great place for a stroll or a run.
Business know-how
Concierge Ricardo Gutierrez’s top tips for getting business right in Bogota:
Tip 1: Discussing business over breakfast or lunch is more common than holding business meetings at dinnertime. Meetings often start as early as 7 a.m.
Tip 2: Arrive on time for meetings, but don’t be surprised if they start later than scheduled.
Tip 3: The appropriate attire for dinning out is formal and fashionable, especially in Bogota’s many high-end restaurants.
