JessWhen I visit Colombia I always make sure to carry some sort of cash and my credit card (with no foreign transaction fees!) But this year I came across several yellow signs with QR Codes at businesses. I didn’t pay much attention to it until it affected me.
One morning I went to a hair salon, and once it was time to pay I was asked if I was paying cash or if I would be “transferring” the money. I was a bit confused because in other instances I also had the option to pay with my credit card. In this specific business, Credit Cards weren’t accepted. I glanced at the sign with the QR code and I figured transferring would be an easier option. I thought I could log in to my bank account and done! But nope! To be able to transfer the money you need to have a Colombian bank account to wire the payment. Luckily I have family that lives in Colombia and they were able to transfer the payment to the business.
Once this happened to me I noticed many businesses had the sign. I guess this method makes it easier for locals to purchase items. Just a heads up if you plan on traveling to Colombia make sure to have cash on you.