This is a coastal area in the tropics, so it is always hot. Seasons: hot, really hot, hot and windy, and hot and rainy. You will always feel sweaty. The rainy season is August to early December. When it rains, it pours. The streets fill with garbage and become rivers. Everyone goes inside for this and after an hour or two it’s over.
You will walk a ton, often on unpaved roads. Good shoes are the most important thing to have on this mission. Do not bring any shoes that are open toed for walking, they are not allowed for elders or sisters. There is a lot of junk and garbage in the streets and they fill with water so it is not safe for your feet.
You will need at least 3 pairs of waterproof shoes or hiking shoes or boots. Rotate everyday to allow them to dry out. A shoe dryer may be a nice thing to bring.
You will want extra socks and extra garments. You go through a lot.
Get light weight, quick drying clothing. You will most likely hand wash and line dry, so simple but durable clothing is best.
Elders only wear suit coat and long sleeves at zone conference or if a general authority is visiting. Don’t buy an expensive suit.
Sisters and Elders: don’t wear expensive watches or jewelry. It could make you a target for theft.
Whether or not to bring a rain jacket has mixed advice. Some say that it is so hot and it is stifling to wear them. The rain comes suddenly and it is more of a hassle toting it around. Others say that a very compact one is nice for the rainy season. A lot more sisters prefer a jacket than Elders do.
Get a good compact umbrella though.
A rechargeable fan to keep on at night. Helps keep mosquitos away and is very nice on hot nights.
A portable keyboard is awesome to have.
Filtered water is available in the apartment and the mission gives you a filtered bottle.
Bring a hat and sunglasses.
If using a bank card, have only small amounts available only. Many families use Western Union to send money for a small fee.
Smart Phones must remain in the apartment to avoid missionaries being a target of theft. They get 2 phones. 1 stays home and 1 (very simple, cheap) phone is used on the streets. If you chose to bring a camera, make sure it is cheap and send attachments so you can download pictures right away, so if it is stolen, you don’t lose everything.
The mission contracts “pensionistas” and missionaries are provided lunch and dinner. They prepare their own breakfast at the apartment.
Missionaries receive bed sheets, laundry bags, a pillow, a first aid kit with thermometer, and a proselyting bag when they arrive.
Toiletries are easy to find. You will have toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, razors, mouthwash, etc. Essential medications are easy to find as well. Some missionaries do miss specific brands they are used to, though.
Packages sent from Amazon do work. Use this address:
Calle 82 #55-20, Apto 2
Edificio Matisse- Colombia Barranquilla Mission
Department:
Atlantico
City:
Barranquilla
Neighborhood:
El Prado
Postal Code:
080001
Phone:
5753582818
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Most parents send their Elders with at least 1 suit (most countries in South America only wear suits to church and meetings) and around 8–10 golf pants. Families are sending more shirts because of heat and humidity — 12–14 is the average. Note for Sisters serving in Brazil: feminine hygiene products are expensive there and tampons are often considered taboo. Be prepared to send a good supply with your Sister Missionary.
Along with Under Armour, these may be the most recommended pant for Elders. They have 4-way stretch, are quick drying, and lightweight. Many say these actually last longer and look nearly identical at a fraction of the price of some of the pricier brands like Lululemon.
Serve shirts have a ventilation panel in the side of the shirt making them noticeably more breathable. Missionaries serving in hot or humid places absolutely RAVE about this feature. The most popular shirt for hot-climate missions, for sure.