Most people think of Colombia and picture colorful streets in Cartagena, the coffee fields of the Eje Cafetero, or Bogotá’s bustling urban sprawl. But today, I want to show you something a little different — something I’d argue is just as essential to Colombian life as its food or fiestas: the barber shop experience.

Now, before you roll your eyes — I get it. A haircut is a haircut, right? You walk in, sit down, the barber buzzes away, maybe you get a splash of aftershave, and then you’re back on your way. At least, that’s the way it’s usually done in the U.S.

But in Colombia? A barber shop visit isn’t just a transaction. It’s an experience. It’s luxury wrapped in leather chairs, steaming towels, and yes, sometimes even a glass of whiskey while you wait.

My guy Manuel runs one of the best spots in Bogotá, and let me tell you — it feels more like walking into a private club than your average salon. The workspaces are spotless, the atmosphere stylish, and the first thing they ask when you arrive is not, “What kind of haircut do you want?” but rather, “Would you like a coffee, tea, beer… or whiskey?”

That’s right. In Colombia, waiting for your barber is never a drag — it’s basically happy hour. And if you didn’t book an appointment, don’t worry. Their waiting areas usually double as full-service lounges, with a bar built in. Suddenly, being next in line doesn’t seem so bad.

Manuel, like most Colombian barbers, is meticulous. Every cut is carefully sculpted, every edge clean. It’s not a rush job. And what stood out to me most the first time I came here was the level of service that’s baked into every haircut.

This reminded me of my barber back in the States, Dave Clemens. Dave was a pro who cut my hair from the time I was 19 until I left for Colombia. He had this thing called the “Dave Special” — a little extra care, some detailing, a wash, and scalp massage. It wasn’t typical in the U.S. barber scene, but he wanted to elevate the experience.

Here in Colombia? That “Dave Special” isn’t special at all. It’s just the standard.

Yes, you read that right. Barber shops in Colombia don’t just stop at haircuts. Many offer manicures, pedicures, and facials — services that men here actually embrace. It’s not unusual to see guys getting their nails cleaned up while waiting for their haircut. And it’s affordable.

For example:

All in, my haircut + facial came to 131,000 pesos — just about $30.66 USD. Try getting that level of service and detail back in the U.S. for under $150. Spoiler: you won’t.

One of the most surprising differences? The scalp and back massage. In Colombia, every haircut includes a relaxing massage after the wash. It’s not optional — it’s just part of the package.

In the U.S., the most you’ll get is a shampoo and rinse. Here, you walk out not only looking sharp but also feeling like you just left a spa. It’s an experience that blurs the line between grooming and self-care.

Quick practical tip: I use a Coinbase card here for payments. Why? No foreign transaction fees, Bitcoin rewards, and the ability to lock or unlock the card straight from my phone. If you’re living abroad or just traveling frequently, this kind of setup makes life a whole lot easier.

Sure, this might seem like a small detail of Colombian life — but these details are what make the expat experience richer. You’re not just paying for a haircut; you’re paying for hospitality, culture, and care. It’s a chance to see how different societies view something as everyday as grooming.

And here’s the real takeaway: luxury doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In Colombia, you can enjoy premium grooming services — whiskey, massage, and all — for the same price you’d pay for a rushed cut in the States.

So, next time you find yourself in Colombia, don’t skip the barber shop. Whether you go for just a trim or add in a pedicure, you’ll leave looking fresh, feeling great, and wondering why this isn’t the global standard.