Looking for an apartment/house with a self serve intercom system.

Do you not realize why there are celadores , why they exist and why they control access especially to the higher-end apartment complexes, and why vigilantes patrol up and down the streets in many neighborhoods?

You say you have done your homework.  You should then realize the reason they have those jobs IS security and to provide at least a modicum of protection from the pillos and ladrones who are intent on B&E (breaking and entering) and robbing people.

You should be able to find a home and even an apartment to rent that does not come with a watchman, for sure, but you may have to be "on the ground" and just nose around looking for signs and asking people.

Thank you. I knew it is bad but I didn't know it is that bad that every apartment in the city of 8 million needs a doorman and security for protection. I thought  at least in those neighborhood of North Bogota it is safe to stay inside. May be I should change my plans for a visit to Bogota. If it is so  unsafe inside our homes even at Parque 93 area then without a doorman/security then how can I feel secure outside when walking to nightclubs in Zone T after dark without a security guard!!!!.

As you say, it is a city of 8 million plus, and it has its crime problems - but don't be overwhelmed.

I did not mean to imply, and you should not infer, that every apartment needs a doorman and security.

It IS safe to stay inside, but you should not barricade yourself inside.  Neither should you leave yourself completely open as you might be able to do in many parts of Canada and the USA.

It is common in Colombia and other South American countries for those who may have possessions worth stealing, to have bars on the windows and doors to discourage it.  Also that's why people are employed to be doormen and watchmen.

But people do not live in fear there - rather one must be watchful and aware of one's surroundings and not give the bad guys any opportunity if possible - many crimes are crimes of opportunity, of the moment in which an opportunity presents itself.

If you have never visited Colombia before - perhaps you should consider other cities to visit as well?  Bogotá is perfect for a Canadian because it is quite cool there, being above 8000 feet - but there are other warmer cities that might appeal if you're trying to get away from the Canadian winter.

Maybe it would be safer in a hotel. I don't think in a large hotel the reception would stop and question visitors as how would they know out of a few hundred people coming in and out every hour who is the guest and who is the visitor? Anywhere in South America is warmer than Ottawa but I chose Bogota Colombia out of all other cities (Santiago was a second choice) because I read about how friendly Colombians are and how beautiful and lively they are. What other South American city would you suggest which is as nice and live and friendly but safer than Bogota?