here are 2 "culture shock" tips:  if you stay with a colombian family of a certain social standing, chances are they won't let you do the things you're used to doing while on vacation.  i was in bogota and neiva and literally never walked around by myself. and the family i was traveling with shot down 80 percent of my suggestions for things to do or see.  i had a great time, but i definitely felt limited and want to go back on my own so i can see the things i missed.oh- depending on who you're with and where you are, you might have a hard time of it if you're not a heavy meat and potatoes type.  the family i was with couldn't understand my reluctance to eat nothing but pork, beef, potatoes and plantains for 20 days. 

here are practical suggestions:colombia has amazing shopping.  in bogota i bought a limited edition monogramouflage bag from louis vuitton (it's not available in the States, and the favorable exchange rate  saved me $500) and a lot of spices and coffee from a gigantic carrefore supermarket- i had to buy another suitcase just to take all my groceries home.and make sure to buy many packets of roboprofin at a pharmacia- it's a great pill for headaches and cramps that's not available in the States.