Unicentro is an enclosed shopping mall where you can find everything from groceries to diapers to film development.  There are department stores, a grocery store, specialty shops, small restaurants, fast food restaurants, small “kiddie” rides, a bowling alley and cinema within.  Unicentro is within walking distance from the residencias.

Santa Barbara is a partially enclosed/partially open air shopping mall that is a little farther walking distance than Unicentro from the residencias.  It is filled with specialty stores and has a food court.  If you walk through the mall to the other side, there is a square where there is a really old church and a couple of fun restaurants.  One that is especially good is multi-colored and has 3 levels of balconies from which to dine.

Centro Andino is an enclosed shopping mall filled with specialty shops and small restaurants.  It is about halfway between the residencias and downtown Bogota.  It is located right next to an area of excellent restaurants.  Your driver or a cab ride will get you there and back.

Hotel La Fontana has an open-air market on Sundays.  You can purchase jewelry, artwork, other souvenirs and food such as empanadas.  Children and babies are welcome.  Sometimes there is live entertainment.

Siete de Agosto is also known as “the leather street”.  There are several blocks of wall to wall small leather shops.  Ask your driver.

For film development, try one of the nearby Foto Japan or Kodak photo stores.  Foto Japan even has a shop in Unicentro.

Carulla is a grocery store near the residencias.   They have a great selection and most foods that you can buy in the States.  It has a well-stocked baby section where you can buy formula, diapers, wipes, etc.  They also have a good bakery and sell wine and spirits.  At the deli counter you can have a sandwich made-to-order or buy pizza by the slice.  There is a small lunch counter/cafeteria upstairs as well as a coffee kiosk.

The Oma Coffee Shop is walking distance from the residencias.  They have baked goods and coffee to take home or drink in.  There is a small play area outside for toddlers.

Carbon de Palo is a nearby restaurant that is noted for its steaks.  They have live entertainment on the weekends. 

There is a fantastic French bakery called Jacques near the residencias.  Great breads, pastries and coffee.  They also serve a nice three-course lunch that changes daily.