A warning to those who wire money to Colombia

august says on Sep 8, 2008, 22:22:

This is not, however, meant to tarnish the image of the many very decent paisas who also can be found in the city. Respect.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 8, 2008, 22:39:

Morphus, that's a pretty hardcore flag you've got there.

But yes, I knew that would come up, should've addressed it. Like most things taking place 3000 miles apart, it requires a bit of trust. That said, we've been "together" for like a year and a quarter AND she knew I was broke after sending that effing cash (both of us are in the "people with little in the first place" camp it turns out). Thus it seems there would be little incentive to lie about it being stolen. Plus there were some pretty genuine sounding hysterics on the phone just after it happened.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Sep 8, 2008, 22:48:

You called It yourself, august, in your first sentence: CHUMP GRINGO NOVIO. lol

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

La_Huella says on Sep 8, 2008, 22:53:

I have some swampland in Florida to sell anybody who believes that crap! Robbed my ass!

Let me guess, she works for a webcam sex site!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

christobeldawg says on Sep 8, 2008, 22:55:

here we go again. have any of these deals ever gone well. but, I guess, if it gives the feeling of new life to a gringo, so be it

traveling hopefully is always better than arriving

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 8, 2008, 22:59:

Such haters. For the record we did not meet on the internet and I'm a 25 year old grad student - not exactly a gold mine or in need of "new life."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

La_Huella says on Sep 8, 2008, 22:59:

Come on, fess up, which studio does she work for?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Sep 8, 2008, 23:14:

www.oyamerumba.com?

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

christobeldawg says on Sep 8, 2008, 23:21:

sorry agosto, I only scan these threads, figured I better help yet another gringo here. You may be in good shape, who knows?

traveling hopefully is always better than arriving

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 8, 2008, 23:34:

I sent Western Union enough money to pay for my now ex-wife to stay in an apartment that we shared 2 years ago in Villavicencio for an extra month after I left. Her excuse or reason for the request for funds was that she got in a fight with her mom, and didn't want to move back in with her. Well, 3 weeks later, I saw pictures of her jello wrestling in a nightclub the same night that I had sent the money, with her cousin on the Internet. I was stupid and let it go. She was in underwear and having a great time. The cousin was topless in a few pics.

2 years later - it only got worse, and the shit I have found out is UNBELIEVABLE. Run hard, run fast, don't look back.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 8, 2008, 23:38:

Oh ya, and just to add a little more to the story: An "ex" friend of my ex told me - without me soliciting for information, that my ex told her that she asked me for money for a month's apartment rent but never lived there after I left. PLEASE BE CAREFULL BROTHER!

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

pedro (☼Travelguide writer) says on Sep 8, 2008, 23:46:

travelingirl says on Sep 8, 2008, 23:50:

I know some of this seems harsh, august, but what pedro just said makes sense. If it was a loan, it would be hard for you to ask for repayment after she was robbed. :( I think they are all ultimately trying to help you or open your eyes. I guess you just have to decide what is the truth.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 8, 2008, 23:51:

Oh shit Roberto, this sounds like a world of hurt you're unpeeling here. I get people's cynicism here though. From my time at PBH, it seems that these miserable endings do happen and with sufficient frequency to warrant such suspicion. In my naive youthful way though, I like to think that somehow I can learn from the mistakes of the elders around here and avoid the pitfalls of the past, you know, like so as to draw up a map to better navigate these treacherous waters. It seems like if you get along with someone, that should be enough, you shouldn't have to be from exactly the same background or global coordinates. I'm sure that sounds like some crap to a lot of yous out there but we'll just have to see.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 8, 2008, 23:53:

I remember that also pedro.

Hey, maybe the original poster has a legit novia that got robbed. ???? But, he should be very wary, question everything ... downright paranoid. Find ways of talking to people who know the novia. Hope you speak Spanish. Good luck brotha.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:09:

August--Here's what you do to see if she is feeding you a line of BS====Ask her for a Copy of the Police Report she filed as you said she went to the police after the incident so she must have a paper with a Case Number on it. Tell her you need it to file an Insurance claim here in the States with W/U so she gets the money. Have her fax or Email it; If she cannot produce it then you know she is up to Monkey Business,,,

No hay Peor Ciego que el que no quiere Ver o Sordo que el que no quiera Oir--Sarah Palin, Wasilla Alaska

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Cerealkiller says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:12:

Hmm August I see a huge red flag there. But its your money and you want to experience things on your own (like every other guy on this forum who was warned and then regretted it), so all i have to say is good luck.

Conservatives are not necessarily stupid, but most stupid people are conservatives -John Stuart Mill

0 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:13:

Good idea, MM.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:17:

Brilliant Miamimike. Call her bluff August, by doing exactly what Miamimike said. If it takes more than 5 days for her to produce said evidence - that is plenty of time - be aware of what you are dealing with. 3 days is probably better advice. But, do NOT coach or prompt her into producing the documentaion. Just mention it, tell her why it is important, and then wait. Good luck guy.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:17:

TG--that should flush her out of the Bushes! LOL

No hay Peor Ciego que el que no quiere Ver o Sordo que el que no quiera Oir--Sarah Palin, Wasilla Alaska

0 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:21:

Well, I hope for his sake she is telling the truth. But if she's lying, it would be better for him to find out now than later.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:23:

Just for the record August, I truly hope we are all wrong and she produces the police report. Or something else that proves she is telling you the truth. It would be refreshing to hear a nice outcome to a suspicious situation for once. Please let us know what happens. Especially if it turns out favorably.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

manINred says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:23:

August raises a good point, though I have scarce ever heard of this happening in Western Union situations. The truth or falsity of his girlfriend's story aside, oftentimes when withdrawing sizeable chunks of change from banks, one has to be extremely careful.

That being said, Many Colombians I know use western Union all the time without problems, Colombians sent me money through western union no probs too. I've also withdrawn money from WU in Colombia no probs. I thouhgt it was the banks that you had to be aware of, but very plausible that the same deal goes on with WU.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:30:

AUGUST,
Please do not listen to this constant rhetoric and Colombiana bashing...
I have been with my novia now for more than 2 years. I did meet her online and she sent me a picture of herself. I am a great judge of character and could tell just by her eyes (the windows of the soul) that she was honest, beautiful and sincere. She has never asked me for any money. She did mention a few times that she lived in a very poor section of MED. and that her mother was sickly but I just chocked that up to her living conditions and diet and such. I helped them out and footed the expense to move them to a better area from Bello to Envigado. They were estatic and almost right away her mom began feeling better and they were able to eat a little better with some tips from me on what to buy and stuff. I found out that Western Union has a credit debit card that I can fill here in the states and I sent this to her there so she can use as I fill it for her.
I feel this is truly the best way and she could not steal or have it stolen from me. She has had her bout of a constant flu but says its because of all the rain there, and what I checked out it rains a helluva lot in Colombia. She said she had a cousin that is a doctor so instead of sending her the money directly I sent it to him to treat her. For $5500 I was able to get her, her mom, her sister and a guy friend of hers that is staying with them that is a childhood friend of the family and is like a brother to her and son to her mom all medicine, and the proper vitamins they all need for a full year. I for one feel really good about all this and I just happen to know that they are for real and it makes me happy that I have made a big difference in somebodies life like this. Keep up the good spirits and do not let these badly burned people here shun you on doing what both you and I know what is right.

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

3 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:32:

LOL

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:35:

I just fell off my chair in laughter Catfish.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:36:

What is funny?

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:36:

"guy friend of hers that is staying with them that is a childhood friend of the family and is like a brother to her and son to her mom"

very nice

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:38:

What is up with that?

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:39:

catfish35... you are a true gent and an example of a real man. we can all learn from something from your post.

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:40:

I am supposed to go see her this weekend. I am going to stay at the Dann Carlton because the family friend is sick again and I seriously do not need a Colombian Cold.. fer shur. she suggested it anyway which I thought was nice.

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:42:

Thanks Papi.
Its just me, its my badge, its my job, its my life, its what I do.

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:44:

I will be doubling up on my VitaminC for sure all this week. Although she doesn't want me going anywhere near the house because the family friend has children and you guessed it they are sick too she does not want me sick for my week I am there.
Shes got some real nice places and things panned for us to do but has to go back home each night to take care of her mom. Can I pick the sweeties or what guys??? dime?

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:46:

Is that the hotel right near Unicentro in Bogota? Just curious.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:48:

No T,
Its in Medellin, near Oviedo. She says its very nice. She picked it for me.

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:49:

Nevermind. I'm thinking of Hotel Estelar La Fontana. I'm sure she'd recommend it too if you ever go to Bogota. ;)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:50:

Before I go to bed, here is a little proof that what I am talking about isn't BS. This is a picture from the night I sent money to pay for the wife's apartment. Remember, she was in tears and distraught over her argument with her mother.

Photo deleted as requested by poster.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:53:

Both girls look like they are crying and obviously trying to get away from the men..you can see that.

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:54:

You got that right Catfish. They were obviously miserable. It was also the same night of a FARC bombing on the edge of town. They were obviously very upset.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 9, 2008, 00:56:

I always jump into a jello pit when I'm stressed.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 9, 2008, 01:17:

August - do what Miamimike suggested. Tell her you need a police report to possibly retrieve the lost money. If she can't produce satisfactory proof within a short amount of time, be extremely cautious and keep your eyes WIDE open. Listen to your gut, not your heart. And again, I truly hope she proves she isn't taking you for a ride. Just a few bits of advice from a former sucker.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 01:24:

I can't take anymore of this pessimism....I am going to bed.

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

panthdave says on Sep 9, 2008, 04:01:

Well I had a doubt one time due to all the nightmares on PBH..I had se3nt wire via Moneygram to get our Moto fixed and for the first time I had a doubt but just let it go..I flew in a week later and ate my words the moto was still at the shop waiting on a part and my Novia still had the money which matched the receipt at the Moto Shop in San Juan..The moto is important for us to get around until I get a car..My Novia also mentioned she prefers not to pickup money because she still says its dangerous in Medellin but she is smart she goes during the day and with a friend at busy public location.. Anyways...I guess I am lucky.. Rare for me to send money because she has a job and I fly every couple weeks..

Anyways Together now two years.and lucky to meet her..and not have had any trust issues and the one doubt I had I ate my words big time..

panthdave Miami

0 funny, 0 helpful.

panthdave says on Sep 9, 2008, 04:02:

Excellent Foto...RJ...Damn..

panthdave Miami

0 funny, 0 helpful.

chingon says on Sep 9, 2008, 05:28:

How many time do someone have to post: DO NOT EVER SEND MONEY, EVER. As soon as you send money you are branded, you are finished. you want to go "slumming" well have fun but do not think these girls are being honest with you one bit. culture difference man culture difference. NO comment from Gringoloid? men who give women money to be with them lack self esteem

0 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Sep 9, 2008, 05:53:

Lighten up, and take heed!

It does happen in Medellin and any Colombian who is honest and was picking up $1000 USD worth of Pesos at Western Union would be very aware of the possability that:

1. either the teller will tip someone off.
2. someone is directly observing them with the intent of robbing them.

I have sent plenty of money through Western Union to Medellin and had it picked up. I would never do financial transactions or use a cash machine in cental Medellin.

I would use the Western Union at Home Center or Exito but even there you better understand how to pick it up safely.

The biggest risk in picking up large amounts of money from Western Union in Colombia is the controls that the goverment and Western Union have in place to identify large amounts of money being transferred. Even when it is legitmimate, it makes it a pain in the ass.

David

0 funny, 0 helpful.

webmanco says on Sep 9, 2008, 06:01:

Blame on me

I rather trust people that wrongly acusse someone of anything.

No hay extremo cierto o verdadero, porque los extremos opacan, enruedan, (lavan cerebros) verdades. Yotas

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 9, 2008, 06:15:

webmanco... "I rather trust people that wrongly acusse someone of anything." examente!

RJ... what I shitty way to find out where the money went. I feel for you man.

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

LORE says on Sep 9, 2008, 06:48:

How can I see the jello fight photo?

Catfish, my man. Wish you the best but expect the worst.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

juli says on Sep 9, 2008, 06:49:

In Camino Real on the lower level is a place where EVERYONE gets wire transfers. The thieves know this. She should never have gone alone nor should she have left at the back exit which is right by the money place. She should have walked inside and up out on Oriental and gotten into a cab. Or she should have gone to a different place.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 9, 2008, 07:33:

juli:
a) Where were you with this info like 2 days ago? and
b) Were you involved in the robo? How did you know she went to Camino Real? I want some answers. Just kidding, that's a pretty impressive coincidence though.


Catfish:
I dig the support man. I agree, cynicism should not be the rule. Perhaps somewhat hypocritically though I am going to express my concern for your own situation. First of all, the Dann Carlton is probably Medellin's most expensive hotel. It is lavish and enormous, not in a fine way, just an expensive way. Maybe she's just looking for some princess-treatment type of escape from her normal surroundings, but something doesn't sit right about someone from a "very poor section" of town saying that you guys should stay there.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

manINred says on Sep 9, 2008, 07:40:

August, I think Catfish's tongue was planted firmly in his cheek when he wrote that post.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ColombianoGringo (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Sep 9, 2008, 07:41:

Sonny says on Sep 9, 2008, 07:52:

AUGUST It is a shame that people can only tell the bad here at times. To make someone feel worse then when they wrote their first post. I for one have send a lot of money to my lady in Colombia and not once did it get stolen, nor did she lie about anything and in every case it was for a good cause. I committed to this relationship totally and unconditionally. I am glad to say that it is never her idea to ask. I know her well enough to know when there is a true need. I also admit that I did not look for a 20 year old to be with. I have raised my kids and do not intend on raising another.You do what your feel is good. When and IF the time comes that you find she lied then deal with it. Until then make the effort to trust her.You and I have both spent more then $100.00 for a good night out. I am sure she trust you here to be true to her. Not all colombians have money and we as Americans tend to flash money around and do things that they may never have done before and we set the pace for what is to come. Trust and unconditional love are important but always keep your eyes open. You will know if things are not as they should be.

Just taking life easy. I worked hard for it and deserve it and now doing it.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

scumbuster says on Sep 9, 2008, 07:58:

Its funny so many women can get buy and do without before the gringo came into there lives and all of a sudden they always need help.

Tomas Jefferson “When the people fear their government, there is tyranny; when the government fears the people, there is liberty.”

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 9, 2008, 08:00:

Sonny, I hear you man. Good stuff.

manINred, damnit. Good call. Pretty lame I didn't catch that. Damn you Catfish. Well played.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 9, 2008, 08:22:

catfish you malparido and I thought you were a gent.... chismoso... jajajajaja

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

wendell13 says on Sep 9, 2008, 08:37:

funny stuff...keep it coming

0 funny, 0 helpful.

juli says on Sep 9, 2008, 08:55:

August, like I said EVERYONE goes to Camino Real downstairs to get money. My family has been going there since we moved back to Medellín from New York. But in the day, out the front entrance and with a group, in a cab. My borother and father usually go.

The thieves know too. I guess your girl is not a seasoned money getter.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

pavo says on Sep 9, 2008, 08:56:

Hillarious. Jello wrestling. A true classic

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Philly says on Sep 9, 2008, 09:11:

I am sorry, there are some really stupid here people saying some really stupid things. I am telling you. YOU ARE BEING PLAYED, POINT BLANK!!!! Oh, to the guy who girlfriend does not want him near the family. YOU ARE ALSO BEING PLAYED!!!! Families also help the daughters play their boyfriends. Come on, your mom has never lied for you? No, he isnt home right now, he should be back soon.´(rings a bell) Please, wake up and smell the coffee. Damn, how can people be so stupid? Lets be honest here, anyone who sends a girl money is paying for sex. Okay, if that is what you want to do, keep it real without feelings. it is stupid worrying about a girl who you can not be with every night. Sorry, but I had to give it to you like it is.

0 funny, 1 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 09:14:

GRINGOLOID,
Be in Medallo this Sabado..whats up? you there now? Cerveza? anyone?
have to collect my funds from that Ice Cream Venture I had..atleast SHE tells me its still in the bank as of last night....God I trust her!!! jejeje

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

panthdave says on Sep 9, 2008, 09:15:

Gringoloid following your direction...Not getting involved with these threads anymore seen to many and also acutally getting old..

panthdave Miami

0 funny, 0 helpful.

juli says on Sep 9, 2008, 09:16:

If not Catfish this is for both August AND you and anyone else sending money:

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Lowell says on Sep 9, 2008, 09:42:

Has to go home at night?
Can't visit family?
People sick for how long?

Alfred E. Newman. "What. Me Worry?"

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 9, 2008, 10:05:

I never pay a woman for sex... I just pay them to leave!

just ask my exwife... ;)

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Sep 9, 2008, 11:51:

Catfish says: "I am a great judge of character and could tell just by her eyes (the windows of the soul) that she was honest, beautiful and sincere"

===================================================================

Catfish--I don't know if I would say the Eyes are a good measure of a person 100% of the time. GW Bush a year ago said the same thing about Russia Prez Vladamir Putin "I looked Putin in the Eyes and saw a person I could trust" but in reality, as the cold facts played out later, that turned out to be not very true, the eyes as a gateway to the Soul. Or maybe Bush mistakingly looked up Putin's Nostrils.LOL

Catfish--I never would have sent $5500! I don't like the sound of that "Friend of the family" Something smells in Denmark about that setup! Sometning isn't Kosher as we say in Miami! And her sending you to that $$$$ Hotel, another Red Flag, IMHO

No hay Peor Ciego que el que no quiere Ver o Sordo que el que no quiera Oir--Sarah Palin, Wasilla Alaska

0 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Sep 9, 2008, 11:53:

August--are you going to ask her for a case Number the police gave her when she opened the case?

No hay Peor Ciego que el que no quiere Ver o Sordo que el que no quiera Oir--Sarah Palin, Wasilla Alaska

0 funny, 0 helpful.

nbenjamin says on Sep 9, 2008, 12:34:

August - you sent her money - and then she was robbed?

Sounds like a complete hustle. Look on the bright side - what is $ 250.00 - it is just money.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

quaid1 says on Sep 9, 2008, 12:52:

Very very knew here. But....
I have to say after reading some of these post especially the ones that are oblivious to the obvious fun that Catfish was poking it is very apparent to me that many of you are easy marks for these woman and probably anyone else for that matter. WOW!!!

1 funny, 0 helpful.

quaid1 says on Sep 9, 2008, 12:56:

Knew.... What a dork

0 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Sep 9, 2008, 13:17:

It's okay bro,

I give everyone ammo with my poor spelling as well. But I appreciate your comments. So many of PHB posts are about north american guys who are disgruntled because they put themselves in a position to get used.

But my own ignorance ( is that a word ) had me assuming that the basis of the thread was the risks of picking up Western Unions in Columbia. Now I think that is worth discussing.

" Easy marks " with too much concern about money if the scamming of $125 makes this big of an impact on their lives.

David

0 funny, 0 helpful.

mariacvetanoski says on Sep 9, 2008, 13:20:

thanks for the tip

Save the street children of Colombia Now!!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

La_Huella says on Sep 9, 2008, 13:43:

Nobody's going to bother marking somebody to be robbed of 250.000 pesos in a WU. Come on, get real. They're looking for amounts in the millions. Colombia isn't that broke!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

quaid1 says on Sep 9, 2008, 13:45:

I think you are actually correct in your ignorance sir. That was the point of the OP I believe. Warning noted.

Makes sense to me. If you are going to rob why pick people at random. Go where the money is obtained and rob the ones that you know have money. Definitely increases your odds of a decent payday. Nice to see that they are putting some thought into at least. Glad no one got hurt. $125 lesson learned and that will not happen again.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

droble77 says on Sep 9, 2008, 13:49:

August:
I wouldn't waste any time on testing her. Whether she's lying or not, my reaction would have been the SAME: I would have gotten pretty mad at her, calling her careless with my money and her security and giving papaya like that. And since she's not reliable, you won't be able to send anything to her for the next 4-6 months while she learns her lesson. :)

Robert:
Nice pic!! ;-)) But bro, you messed up. No need to end up marrying her. If I had seen similar pics on facebook or pegateya.com with this girl I dated, I would have gotten mad at her for not telling me about the jello fight because I happen to LOVE jello fights too! :-))) And next time I drop by, she better be ready to give me something "very special" (like a trip to the local swinger club or a 3-way with her cousin/ best friend), otherwise no mas plata for jello fighting, LMAO!! ;0))

Guys, you gotta let go that gringo-logic that don't apply nowhere south of the border. Do a little less "rescueing" and a little more disciplining. Some of these colombianas can get pretty wild and that can be fun but they will walk all over you if they see you're weak and give them half the chance. . .

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ColombianoGringo (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Sep 9, 2008, 14:05:

Noelito40 says on Sep 9, 2008, 14:17:

Friends of mine were robbed at gunpoint last week. they took money out of ATMs (in Unicentro in Bogota) stayed in unicentro for a few hours, had something to eat there, then got a taxi (from the rank, not off the street). When the taxi stopped to drop off the first 2 girls, (in a respectable part of Clle 140) 2 guys approached them waving guns, (the taxi driver took a bullet so (don't be thinking he was in on the act!). the guys knew which of the girls to target (because they obviously had tracked them all the way from Unicentro...

These type of robberies can happen anywhere, but what gets me is why the banks's and governments practices here encourage/force people to carry large sums of cash around!! it's just asking for trouble??

Noelito

0 funny, 0 helpful.

nbenjamin says on Sep 9, 2008, 14:30:

Maybe I am just lucky? Maybe it is because I grew up in a big city with a fair amount of crime. I have never been robbed anywhere in Colombia. Never had a problem. Maybe because I speak spanish, maybe because I am male, maybe because I look latin.

I am not sure - but I hear about this stuff and it never happens to me. My girl talks about it happening, but it has never happens to her. Knock on wood my luck will continue.

Either way - I call BS - august cut the chick.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

jaramillo says on Sep 9, 2008, 14:35:

nbenjamin, those are the stats. this girl's story smells fishy. THREE guys in a moto? Never seen that!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

nbenjamin says on Sep 9, 2008, 14:37:

Jaramillo - seriously - I have never had a problem neither has my girl etc. Sometimes I think maybe it is just a lack of big city experience. I am not sure.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

jaramillo says on Sep 9, 2008, 14:39:

Sure, but this girl lives in Envigado. This is metropolitan Medellin.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

nbenjamin says on Sep 9, 2008, 14:47:

My girl live in robledo estrato 3. It aint that great a hood. And she lives just and estrato 1 - is just a stroll away... Well a little more than a stroll but definitely close enough.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

juli says on Sep 9, 2008, 15:27:

Diamante or Miramar?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

nbenjamin says on Sep 9, 2008, 15:55:

Robledo la pola....

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Monita Linda says on Sep 9, 2008, 16:00:

I think getting the police report is a GREAT IDEA!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Philly says on Sep 9, 2008, 16:40:

We all know there isn´t a police report. Oh, I forgot about this story. I once knew a girl who had a husband and kid, when her so called boyfriend would come to see her, the kid and the husband would get lost. The funny thing was, everyone was laughing in the boyfriend´s face because we all knew he would give this girl tons of money when he left and everyone would party with this guys money. The husband did not have a problem with his wife f***ing this guys brains out. Of course, the wife would break the husband off with some money. I personally found the entire situation funny as hell. This goes to show you, people will go to all lenghts to play you.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Cheers Terry says on Sep 9, 2008, 17:14:

I have to say after reading some of these posts especially the ones that are oblivious to the obvious fun that Catfish was poking it is very apparent to me that many of you are easy marks for these woman and probably anyone else for that matter. WOW!!!

===========================================

Truer words were never spoken.

The naivete that is sometimes demonstrated on this forum is mind boggling.

It makes for some good laughs though. Thanks Catfsh!

Cheers,
Terry

0 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Sep 9, 2008, 17:29:

funny video, Juli. Well, funny to make your point.

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

lampltr says on Sep 9, 2008, 17:46:

jonas & gringoloid, I side with both you guys....I am wondering the same!!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Monita Linda says on Sep 9, 2008, 19:10:

Oh please CT come on!! Obviously you haven't been in Colombia because if you have, you would know that many colombian ladies (&guys) will milk their gringo novio/a untill the last penny if they had the chance.

True love exists though (trust me), but most relationships are based on various other motives, not including love.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Cheers Terry says on Sep 9, 2008, 19:30:

Dear Monita,

You've COMPLETELY missed the point.

It appears that all of Catfish's hilariously sarcastic tongue-in-cheek posts have gone over your head, as have all the comments from the many other posters who've been laughing about it.

My post is AGREEING that many foreigners on this forum are utterly clueless and naive about being played for fools by their Colombian novio/a.

Cheers,
Terry

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 9, 2008, 21:01:

This is incredible. What a personal PBH record! Over a hundred comments! Can't say I've ever pulled that off. I thank everyone for their help in realizing this proud moment.

That said, there's so many different takes on the situation. Miamimike, I'd like to go through the trouble of getting this police report, but I've been thinking - and this is going to sound damn naive - but doesn't going down that road just suggest that I myself lack trust in this relationship? Some people got it, but the fact is, the idea behind the original post was simply to remind people to be careful where they go with large amounts of efectivo in their pockets in Medallo. That seems a sound message regardless of whether or not I was hustled by my gf. Yeah, it was shitty to lose 125 bucks (probably) to effing ladrones, but the fact of the matter is that I wouldn't ever expect to get any form of "loan" back from anyone in the Valle de Aburra (sorry to the solvent paisas, but they're in a minority in my experience), so as soon as I signed away the cash from my end it wasn't going to make a difference who it ends up with, I wasn't gonna get it back, it was as good as gone. I sent it cuz she was in a tight spot and I was feeling generous after a good day of furniture moving - it was a couple hours in the rain lifting couches, nothing more. Kinda like people feel spendy after doing well at the casino or the OTB, if you will. (Incidentally I've been the recipient of such post-OTB good cheer in the past, so you gotta pass it on I figure.) So, much to many people's disappointment, I'm gonna move on and keep on with the woman who lived in a shitty, moldy garage with me for four months recently and who seems pretty content with a year and a quarter of me hardly buying gifts or chicharron and requiring that we walk (even in the rain) anywhere that's less than half the diameter of Medellin proper, simply cuz that business doesn't fit in my poor-ass budget. The way I see it, if that's a thieving gold digger, well that's one shitty thieving gold digger. But if that's a ladyfriend, well man, that's a pretty damn cool chick, and why blow that off?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 9, 2008, 21:11:

Do what you want to do but I'd rather "lack trust" in the beginning of a relationship by requesting the police report, than being a sucker later on down the road.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

nbenjamin says on Sep 9, 2008, 21:35:

Greg Yohn - I hate to go off topic but - The Dann in Cali is the best one without question, or my favorite. The one in Medallo sucks.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Sep 9, 2008, 21:38:

"""True love exists though (trust me), but most relationships are based on various other motives, not including love"""

jjajaja.... 'trust me'... Monita Linda.... wiser words......donde? cuando? nunca!!!! jajaj.

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Sep 9, 2008, 21:39:

muy intelligente!! for a girl born in Kazakhstan... lol

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 9, 2008, 22:31:

GREGYOHN,
Man thanks for the great tips. My novia said that too about no one speaking English so maybe a bad idea to visit the house. The more and more I read what you seasoned guys are talking about I really really am starting to feel lame like you say. She said she needed between 2000 and 2500 to run the new place I bumped her and her family up to (and the family friend) is that about right? And can I really get a place for $35 a night AND agua caliente? even in Medellin? What about the thread count in those places?
I didn't understand what you said about $5500 for the healthcare her primo doctorino was giving them either, was that ok ? not enough? She just told me tonight that she brought her Abuela (and her youngins) who has some kind of flu also. All the way from someplace called Count Chocolate or Choco (a)? (sounds like a fake place to me huh?) Just as I am supposed to visit this Sabado
she pulls this boner out...I tell you guys this Chicklet is starting to get crunchy...Sounds like this guy will be spending mucho tiempo in Poblado in the famous Park Urass (sp?)or whatever its called....Chao everybody..Peace to all..be safe and stay healthy!!!

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

1 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Sep 9, 2008, 22:31:

August, I'm afraid you are afraid you may find something out if you ask her for a Police report,,,do what you wish but still better IMO trust but verify,,,

No hay Peor Ciego que el que no quiere Ver o Sordo que el que no quiera Oir--Sarah Palin, Wasilla Alaska

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Cheers Terry says on Sep 9, 2008, 23:03:

This thread is hilarious.

Thanks for the laughs, Catfish. Like moths coming to a flame...

Cheers,
Terry

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Cerealkiller says on Sep 10, 2008, 00:15:

August, I think its very sweet that you are willing to give her the benefit of the doubt, trust her and move on. I hope you have indeed met a good woman. However, if it goes wrong, do tell...I promise to not say "I told you so" and I am sure many on here won't rub it on your face either.
Good luck.

Conservatives are not necessarily stupid, but most stupid people are conservatives -John Stuart Mill

0 funny, 0 helpful.

OneHappyBoy says on Sep 10, 2008, 02:52:

dude= I am torn.. Part of me wants to say she hustled you, just because the story cries out for that, and given the light of day, and the complete niavity of your GF for her safety, it seems absurd. Also, "I want to borrow money" lending is unplausable, Did she have a way to pay you back or did she fiegn enough hurt to promise to still pay you back, or say ah, too bad?

The other part of me, says, what true motive would she have in doing this? Why disrupt the potential flow of cash from you? and reminds me of the dangers on the streets..

The nagging thought, however, is she didn't fall of the turnip truck yesterday, and has probably been around the block once or twice and is pretty street smart...I am really leaning toward to scam...60:40.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

panthdave says on Sep 10, 2008, 03:40:

AMAZING..

panthdave Miami

0 funny, 0 helpful.

badboy says on Sep 10, 2008, 06:04:

no harm. no foul. last time i checked relationships didn't fall into a neat little linear mathematical formula. they zig and they zag and can be messy and unpredictable. i've known people who did far, far worse things to each other (assuming she lied) and went on as happy couples.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 10, 2008, 06:22:

Badboy, you have a good point. But, that is why August needs to verify his lady's story with MM's police report idea. If she comes up with a report, great .... that much more faith and trust. If she can't, then August knows she lied.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

jinksmiester says on Sep 10, 2008, 06:43:

If this is the first time you have sent her money and you have been together for a year plus she may be for real but one part of the story bothers me.
If she was robbed as she says would,nt the thief just take the entire wallet not just have her remove the cash???what would be the point of letting her keep the wallet?Seems very convienient that the cash disapeared but she still managed to keep all her identification etc...were the thieves just bieng polite?
There is nothing wrong with giving her the benifit of the doubt..as you say its only 125 bucks and there are lots of genuine good people (honest) in colombia.hHowever...if she comes up with a story like this again id be suspious and check it out.To listen to some of the comments in this post you would believe that anyone who got involved with a lady from colombia would have to be a fool as they are all trash.
That is simply not the case.I am married to a great lady from colombia and her family members are decent honest working people.
Just because some people posting here got taken advantage of does,nt mean everyone has been screwed over.
i met lots of ladys here and in my home country that were gold diggers...wanting to know what i owned...a nice car...a nice house...money...
Then i met one that wanted to know about me...about my family..my likes and dislikes and never once asked about money or possetions.
The ones that wanted it all were players and they got nothing....the one that wanted nothing got it all....
good luck

A man is not old until regret takes the place of dreams

0 funny, 0 helpful.

badboy says on Sep 10, 2008, 07:14:

robert: i see your point as well but i would let the first time slide completely and just move on. there's obviously no right answer but just whatever someone is comfortable with. now if it happened again or some similar situation occurred then i would want to get to the bottom of it....and would be more vigilant...

0 funny, 0 helpful.

chingon says on Sep 10, 2008, 13:35:

hmmmm where can we host a terrabyte of data :)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ColombianoGringo (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Sep 10, 2008, 14:01:

OneHappyBoy says on Sep 10, 2008, 14:18:

I would love to make a few rather salacious comments about gold diggers, lost money, and every other issue that is a nexxus to Colombianas, but I have to sleep with my wife, and one thing I have found is that Colombianas are full of passion, I MEAN FULL OF PASSION! That is a double edged sword.. I don't want to experience the painful side of that sword.....

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 10, 2008, 15:11:

Hey, I acknowledge August's situation may be totally innocent and real. But, I think it is foolish not to verify. Money isn't the issue. It is trust. August needs to verify if she is worth his trust. Hopefully, like panther, he will find everything is legit. I ignored - well ... chose to forgive and forget; and I am now going through an extremely messy divorce, almost exactly 2 years later. I don't wish what I am going through right now on any of you guys. Also, I do not mean to paint all Colombian women or women in general with the same brush. I just figured if I shared a little of my own personal experience, it might cause somebody to open their eyes a little wider, and maybe not get hurt in the future. A metaphor for my situation might be: The guy goes to the doctor, and the doctor tells him he has a small growth on his neck. The doctor says it needs to be removed and have a biopsy done. Well, the patient is afraid of the pain and knowing the results, so he ignores the doctors recommendation. 2 years later, that guy has tumors throughout his body, and needs major surgery which will cost a fortune, ruin his personal life, will be MUCH more painful than if he had gottn that biopsy done early, etc. You hear what I am saying?

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 10, 2008, 16:14:

Alright sportsfans, so here's where we're at. On the advice of people who I've never met and about whom I know only through an avatar and username on an internet forum about Colombia (no disrespect, but what does that make me?), I asked her about the police report. She says they did not give her a copy nor a reference number, but was advised that she could stop by the station again to check on the situation after a little bit of time. I've never filled out a police report in Colombia, but honestly that seems more Medellin cops than not. It's not like the police really want to you to be able to press them about this matter that they're not going to do anything about in the first place, and even if they accidentally came across the cash out of some impossible circumstances, there's no way it's going anywhere but into their pockets. So yes, I imagine this may be taken as confirmation by some of you that the whole story was fabricated, but seems to me the best thing we can do is wait until the next time I get down there to go with her to the station to ask about "any leads."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

lanegrapaisa says on Sep 10, 2008, 16:28:

LMAO, I bet you all the money in my bank account, your girl and the three stooges are drinking a bottle of guaro in your name right now. No woman gets robbed by 3 men, it's 2 at the most and that's only if one of them is driving the getaway bike.
Godspeed to you my friend and as I always try to let you guy know, let the blood flow back into your brain before you send money or believe any of these cockamamie stories.
Jesus Murphy, do men ever learn?

oh that cement is just, it's there for the weight, dear

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 10, 2008, 16:33:

Ah you're way off, she doesn't even like guaro. Plus, as I said, what would be the point of making up the story if I never had any intention of recouping the money or sending any more?

How much money do you have in that account anyways? Let's discuss this, make it interesting like. 125 comments: we could get a pool going. Anyone?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Tinto (Moderator) (Trustee board) says on Sep 10, 2008, 16:35:

I kinda skimmed the posts, so maybe this has already been discussed but...

"is accosted by 3 savory, well moralled gents on a moto"

- Savory? I think you mean unsavory. Or maybe they tasted good?

- well-moralled? I can't figure that one out. Do you mean they were well-mannered/polite?

- Three adult males on a moto? That's quite a mental picture. They must be small guys or they have a big moto.

;-)

I wanted access to health care, housing and education, but, no, I get potholes, trash and silicone tits instead. -Desi.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 10, 2008, 16:45:

could have been 3 enanos?

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

lanegrapaisa says on Sep 10, 2008, 16:48:

LMAO, tinto, you're absolutely right!, they were three tasty, well behaved men with dwarfism who rode a bike with a sidecar.... must have been a sight to see, eh?

oh that cement is just, it's there for the weight, dear

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 10, 2008, 16:52:

"is accosted by 3 savory, well moralled gents on a moto".....lengua en mejia parcero

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Pirate2late says on Sep 10, 2008, 16:57:

August,

Wake up my man. I've followed this thread thinking (hoping) you would see the light. Yep, I know love is blind, and when I fall in love, I fall all over the place! But I hope you cut and run. Don't worry about what has happened, because you can't change nothin' now, but you have learned a valuable lesson if you so choose to take it.

There are WAY too many signs that things aren't "right". She wants you to stay at the Dann (alone!!)......
She doesn't want you to visit or meet her family.....(all in the best interest of you no less).....
no police report.......
no case/incident number......

When you meet the right novia, she can't wait for you to meet her family. She will never ask you for anything, nor her family. The good Colombians are honest and proud people, and will be somewhat offended by the you offering to "pay their way".

Forget it brother......move on. There are many GOOD Colombians.

el Pirate

p.s. I smelled a rat when I first read your sad story. Don't be fooled by my profile, I do fly for a living now, but, I am a retired State Police Officer (25 yrs) and you are being taken.......Sorry

"Fly it until the last part stops moving!"

0 funny, 0 helpful.

OneHappyBoy says on Sep 10, 2008, 17:01:

Ok.. Here is story for you.. (sorry, couldn't resist it).. your novia is sitting around with HER novio, Pepe, trying to think about how to get some cash together to fund a night of debauchery... AH.. her gringo novia!!! SI!!! A little story, need a little cash, she will pay it back, though you know she won't, at least in cash..Damned it!! I got robbed, you feel bad, "no need to pay me back"...."See you in a few months!!!!"

You just have to remember, life goes on while you are not there.. Life goes on my friend....

Just have to realize EVERYBODY GETS A PAYDAY IN THIS WORLD.....She had hers, Pepe had his... life is good!!!

One little bit of advice, like anybody on here needs anymore, but here it goes.... Exchanging money with a novia is BAD news!!! and it taints the relationship....When the ring is on her finger, and the visa paperwork has been filed, then, and only then, my friend, and then in modest amounts. Full disclosure of her finanicial condition is a must!!!

I am not saying, don't trust her, and you have noticed, I haven't once referenced "her" being a Colombiana.. It would be the same as if you were living in San Diego and she was living in Philadelphia.. proximity matters more than all of the professed love in the world, (or at least a VERY GOOD WEB CAM) but that is another story...

While you are opining about her, life is marching on, along with the biological perogative that lays in the proximity of Pepe........

Just my humble general opinion..

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 10, 2008, 17:16:

Yes! Rocinante is following this one, thank you. I'm going to have to get another novia and con her out of her cash if I ever want to stay at the effing Dann Carlton, with two effing Ns. What a ridiculous name for a faux fancy hotel.

I think people are making too much out of this 3 guys on a bike thing. Plenty of times I've seen the cops in Medellin (who normally ride pitcher and catcher), throw a detainee on the bike in between them, for a total of 3 guys on a dirtbike.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 10, 2008, 17:25:

Apparently. Damnit. Well thank you for re-editing.

Look, the thing is, I'm not saying these theories about her having constructed this elaborate story about being robbed, then feigning hysterics on the phone and pretend-sobbing about it for the next day are impossible, I just don't see how they are any more likely than the opposite, that all this business actually did go down and that sometimes Medellin can still be a dodgy city. She didn't ask for the money, I just sent it, and I knew it wasn't coming back my way. What would be the point of lying about it?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Sep 10, 2008, 17:30:

Can we all click on: Add Friend.... for august; now,...
I think he needs us all.... anyone got a tullaya por sus lagrimas?

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

lanegrapaisa says on Sep 10, 2008, 17:33:

August: Please, read and understand what we are telling you. We only try and make fun because truth hurts, I haven't seen your profile or read anything else about you but I assume you're a good enough guy looking for love, like most of the gringos (once again, not a derogatory term) I meet every day.
Walk away dude, maybe it's just me, but I would never ask a boyfriend for money, that is a surefire way to screw up a relationship.
PLEASE THINK ! "cuando el rio suena, piedras lleva" look it up if you want, VERY loosely translated it means "where there's smoke , there's fire".
This is a warning for all of you:
A REAL woman, no matter where she's from, will never rely on a man for money. She works and takes her of herself. Appreciates gifts from the man in her life but would never ask for them. She wants you to support her in her decisions not make them for her; and last but not least a real woman wants you to be her companion, not her savior.
If you don't believe me, then read the stories posted here, of the gringos who gave their woman all she could ever want and how she ended up with some broke ass Colombian.
Be her friend, her accomplice, not her freaking ATM, and you will have her always.

oh that cement is just, it's there for the weight, dear

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 10, 2008, 17:45:

Alright, lanegrapaisa, she had been working full time for an NGO for the past month. The NGO was dicking her around about getting her on the payroll (I was there while this was going on, so I can verify this as true), so she quit last week and started working at a restaurant 12 hours a day for 25k a day. That wasn't going to get her enough for the next month's rent by the time it was due and she was ready to move our shit to her Mom's place until that could happen (notice: she did not ask me for cash at that point). Mom's is a long haul away to just turn around a week later and move again with all the junk we have and I had just come across some cash, so I offered to forward her some (I mean she'd be moving my stuff as well see). Was I being a typical gotta-rescue-the-novia boyfriend? Probably so and, yeah, that could be explained as lame, but I'd help out any friend in the same way. Was she running me? Doesn't seem so obvious to me.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Papi de Alejo says on Sep 10, 2008, 17:52:

August, only you know your situation. I have had you listed as a friend for quite a while. I have read the things that you have written about your novia in the past and I have paid keen attention to your assessments of the life that you lead in Colombia. We both know that it is different to the life that most of the other posters have and you have to take their comments based on their context which is very different to your own.

From what you have written both in this thread and in others, I am certain that your novia is well acquainted with your life in the US and has very little expectation that you will be funding new digs for her or anyone else. I took your comments in the way that you intended. Thank you for posting the warning.

Good luck to you and your girl. Hope that you get back there real soon.

Live simply... Love generously... Care deeply... Speak kindly...

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Pirate2late says on Sep 10, 2008, 17:57:

Rocinante,
.....Ah, but many threads! I think maybe Catfish might have mentioned this. You are good!

It could be the rum! ha ha ha! The Captain and I are good friends! My memory could be foggy, but my instinicts............I don't think so.

Thanks...........

August.............good luck!

el Pirate

"Fly it until the last part stops moving!"

0 funny, 0 helpful.

cdy says on Sep 10, 2008, 18:09:

Sorry but I have to add my 2 cents,
$125? I need to get myself a Colombiana girlfriend.
I wired $500 to my Panamanian amiga last month. However I made the offer, she did not ask, but I knew she was going through a tough financial time. In my defense however I always have a fantastic time with her when I am in Panama, what she does when I am not there I figure is her business.
I find it hard to believe gringos who only occasionaly get to Colombia(or insert country here) truly believe that their novia sits around pinning away for them to return.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 10, 2008, 18:15:

cdy... if guys sends $500 per month they sure don't get lonely...heheh.

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

OneHappyBoy says on Sep 10, 2008, 18:18:

Damn cdy.. $500??? You're a stand up guy!!!!.... or prepaying:)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 10, 2008, 19:54:

here's a little food for thought my gringo bruddas... I see my situtation/ connection to colombia differenrt to the majority here. my 1st trip to colombia was to parapente as I was sick of the regulations and weather in canada. I saw launch sites online and cloud bases on the internet and thought paradise on bloody earth. In short I booked a tkt from YVR/Cali and didn't research anything else back then in 2004. parapente and only parapente was my only reason to go there... anyway
I have made good amigos colombianos thru this and dudes... they don't give F all unless she is just a puta. and believe me those colombianos have a lot of coin. I also have made good friends with guys with modest coin. 2 really good buddies/parceros(sp) they have had in the past go out with girls with absent gringo husbands and novios and these bitches pay for the whole night out... cover charge, whiskey, beer, extascy, taxis, motels and spending money... you fokin name it and some gringo bobo is paying for some perros good time.
Sorry guys 8 times outta 10 you're being played... why do you think the guys in medallo are so laid back with gringos? YOU ARE PAYING FOR THEIR GOOD TIMES... sorry bros. but better hear the truth form me than some one else ie: novia...

paz

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 10, 2008, 21:37:

PAPI...you have just crushed me...

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

travelingirl says on Sep 10, 2008, 21:40:

I need another Catfish story to make me laugh. Any more escapades with your girlfriend you'd like to share with us tonight?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Catfish35 says on Sep 10, 2008, 21:41:

LANE,
What a beautiful commentary...very well said. Put very nicely and very enlightening.

Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end."

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 10, 2008, 22:34:

sorry catfish... I'll wear a condom next time... jejejeje.

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Sep 10, 2008, 22:52:

papiC! you're crushin me! jajja
... lol
I'll send ya a new avatar, dude!

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

christobeldawg says on Sep 10, 2008, 23:15:

After reading all of the comments, and listening to the op's comments, I am torn, leaning toward scam, and trouble, but not completely sure, so I would hate to say cut her over only this, at this point.
I have noticed there are alot of gold diggers, but have also noticed that if you keep your wits about you, they don't seem to have much game. Guys just don't seem to be very bright, will tend to let them off the hook easily.
If you ask a guy enamored of a girl he really doesn't know that well, even though he is sure that he does, but if he does not actually live in her country, come on, anyway, if you ask him if he would be willing to pay 100 dollars to have someone check her out, follow her a bit, he will almost always decline the offer.
Guys, when feeling love, don't want to know the truth, because then they lose their buzz.

traveling hopefully is always better than arriving

0 funny, 0 helpful.

christobeldawg says on Sep 10, 2008, 23:18:

and who wants a buzz kill? but if the guys were thinking about the possible, maybe probable, longterm fallout, would they not at least then be strong enough to take actions to be certain of her intentions? probably not, and we say women are the irrational gender.

traveling hopefully is always better than arriving

0 funny, 0 helpful.

OneHappyBoy says on Sep 10, 2008, 23:37:

I tried to tell my wife we are equal partners and only lovers in the bedroom. The purpose was to find a stable grounded relationship.. As you could imagine, that went over like a turd in a punch bowl....I have come to decide that women love to ride on the waves of irrationale intoxicating love...Funny thing, our home is very peaceful now that I try to ride a wave or two with here:)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

august says on Sep 11, 2008, 00:02:

This has been an epic thread. I honestly never expected such an unrestrained outpouring. I feel like somewhere around comment 140 it must have fully transcended it's original form as my post. It became that of PBH; I can no longer claim ownership, it is everyone's. It's been emotional draining, even exhausting, at times, but there's been some fine wisdom offered as well. Papi de Alejo: I dig your style man, thank you. Even Rocinante: I'm not sure how you saw the thieves, but you did, and after snapping that picture, I have no doubt that you did your damnedest to run them down before, despite the combined weight of three male paisas, they zipped off and around the next bend. Good stuff, all of you. I see no reason that this should ever end.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

manINred says on Sep 11, 2008, 00:08:

Wow, is this lame debate still going on? Who gives a shit if it's true or not whether she played him. Both alternatives are equally likely. The whole point of this thread is to be careful when withdrawing money from the ATMs or from Western Union in Colombia. I personally put my cash in my socks.

PS August I have gotten police reports in Colombia and they are not hard to get.

0 funny, 1 helpful.

OneHappyBoy says on Sep 11, 2008, 00:33:

You put yours in your sock? I put my in my shorts... Makes my wife stand a little taller around her friends:)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

papiChulo says on Sep 11, 2008, 00:45:

maninred.. you mean you have heard the the hard luck stories as well?

I'm givin'er... givin'er HARDCORE

0 funny, 0 helpful.

manINred says on Sep 11, 2008, 01:07:

papiChulo, only hard luck stories that happened to me.

But when colombians send me money through western union I never go to a dangerous agent (that goes the same with ATMs) and like i already stated, I put the money in my socks.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

manINred says on Sep 11, 2008, 01:08:

OneHB: shorts works well too... no theif will wanna stick his hand down there ;)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Sonny says on Sep 11, 2008, 15:31:

It takes a thief. She is a liar, she is not a liar. She is a thief she is not a thief. She is a scam she is not a scam, Put it in your sock take it out of your sock. My wife is taller now , my wife is not taller.Lovers in the bedroom not lovers in the bedroom. She is honest she is not honest, dump her, keep her. I hate my wife , I still hate my wife. Like playing country western music. Play it backwards and you get your wife back, dog back, kids back, lover back money back and all of this writing means totally nothing as this post turned out to be. Amaizing but interesting to see just how far a post can keep going before the line breaks and the fish gets away. In any case it is up to August to keep her or dump her

Just taking life easy. I worked hard for it and deserve it and now doing it.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Barbaridad says on Sep 13, 2008, 14:05:

Ok, right, I haven't read the whole thread, but it seems as if the general consent is that in a gringocolombiano relationship at least one of the two isn't honest, trust between the two cannot be trusted, the gringo man is always an over 50 gold-digger, and the paisa beauty queen in her teens is always trying to find a way to rip the rich gringo off. Maybe I am naive (I might well be, being a non-paisa non-teen non-beauty queen and therefore devoid of any inside perspective), but while (lots of?) cases like that surely exist, there is still a place for real encounter between two people from different places. Why does that immediately get questioned here?

La alemana paisa

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Cheers Terry says on Sep 13, 2008, 15:01:

Why does that immediately get questioned here?

==========================================

Because Barbaridad, the "real" thing is a minuscule fraction of these relationships.

Cheers,
Terry

0 funny, 0 helpful.

OneHappyBoy says on Sep 13, 2008, 20:02:

Barbari- There are great relationships between two people in different places....I for one, have a fantastic marriage with my Colombian wife; actually has become my best friend....BUT what is usually heard here is some rather colorful,can't "see the forest for the trees" comments....

Two people getting along isn't quite as interesting as some gringo willing to lavish cash and gifts on a Colombiana willing to part said gringo from his cash, and the creative methodology said Colombiana is willing to use....

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Robert Jorge says on Sep 14, 2008, 09:00:

Well I don't fit the stereoype, and it happened to me. I am under 40, decent looking, speak the language at an acceptable level, lived several months in Colombia, didn't meet her on the Internet, etc.

"You can not take the barrio out of the girl you really can't." Oneforamillion

0 funny, 0 helpful.

scottclmbr says on Oct 1, 2009, 10:13:

any advice on spanish schools and hotels/apartments near the center of bogota? Thanks!

0 funny, 0 helpful.