Brief travel guide to Baranquilla

Miguel_Clavo says on Dec 21, 2006, 19:34:

BAQ is spelled wrong in the title....=) shame on you! =) Just my opinion...

Miguel_Clavo.....Colombia es pasión!

"F.A.R.C..S.U.C.K.S"

"I would rather die living life, than to live a dying life."........ Oh, and my PM is always ON. Great Bumper Sticker: "Home of the Free, Because of the Brave"

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Miguel says on Dec 21, 2006, 23:15:

Versalles At 35usd a night for a suite and a good breakfast during Carnival, I would hardly call it expensive. Hotel El Prado is expensive...and Miguel_Clavo, maybe this thread is about "Baranquilla Columbia".

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bickerss says on Dec 21, 2006, 23:49:

I agree its not the best looking city, but I find the people the most friendly in Colombia. The parties are great here. The premier disco is Frogless, and some others are located around calle 79 (however I am led to believe the whole party district moved due to complaints of noise). Another great bar is La Quinta.

The carnival is amazing and I found places last minute for 60,000 pesos a night near calle 79. From here you can walk (a longish walk) to the carnival parades, which are a hoot. The tickets were exy, but nothing like Brazil costs. Be prepared to be sprayed with foam and flour the whole time, especially as a Gringo.

They have some upmarket night in the hotels over carnival, which are exy but awsome. Strange thing is they didnt sell beer, and the rum was by the bottle and expensive.

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Peter (Moderator) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Dec 22, 2006, 12:50:

jay1234 says on Dec 22, 2006, 13:42:

Hotels I wrote about this elsewhere, but I had a very good experience at Hotel American Golf. Price was $30-$40 a night ( they give discounts for longer stays). Clean, friendly staff, good food, nice bar (for sitting and drinking, not for dancing or meeting tons of people).

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Miguel_Clavo says on Dec 22, 2006, 18:07:

hahaha..Miguel, you are right! in South Amerca! =) Just my opinion...

Miguel_Clavo.....Colombia es pasión!

"F.A.R.C..S.U.C.K.S"

"I would rather die living life, than to live a dying life."........ Oh, and my PM is always ON. Great Bumper Sticker: "Home of the Free, Because of the Brave"

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Miguel says on Dec 22, 2006, 18:12:

Miguel_Clavo Como se dice George W. Bush...South "Merica"

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toneloc24 says on Dec 27, 2006, 11:44:

Bad Hotel/Aparthotel experience in BAQ After several stays at Aparthotel Torre del Prado (http://www.torredelprado.com/), I got robbed by the hotel management in November 2006. They somehow added a charge of COP90.000 (COP 30.000 x 3 persons) to my account for some overnight guests. Management would not fix their mistake, to the point of getting the police involved.

Problem was, no one stayed past 11:00 pm in my place. In fact, the latest that anyone stayed in the room, was when we decided to head to Rodadero one evening, and we made a mad dash to Buena Vista so that I could buy some beach shorts. We had a slice of pizza, went back to the hotel for a beer, while waiting for another of our friends to come so that we could all go out. We left the hotel at 11:00 for the bars on Cll 84.

The hotel logged that at 1:30 am, "someone" entered back into the hotel with 3 guests. While I proceeded to show the manager digital photo evidence of our whereabouts at 1:35 am thru 3:30 am, he still would not relent. We were in a disco. At first, they tried to view the video from the hotel's surveillance cameras that night, but then suddenly, they couldn't find the tape. All the while, I'm holding evidence to the contrary of their charge. No one came back to the hotel with me, as I dropped them all home.

Police came, agreed with manager, who also could not contact the worker who logged the guests. I had to pay the extra COP90.000 for a false charge. Wasn't about to go to jail over $40USD.

It's a nice place, but the management are thieves. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.

"Don't tase me, bro!!!!"

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Peter (Moderator) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Dec 30, 2006, 17:41:

Giann says on Dec 30, 2006, 19:15:

Pete Giann is from there to.I will write a nice travel review when I get the time.Thanks for calling my home town ugly ;)

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Frank Black says on Jan 6, 2007, 22:33:

HIghly Recommended Guide for Colombia I was in BAQ from 11/30/06 to 12/18/06.

To say that Peter Solano's services were phenomenal would be an understatement. He truly overdelivered and continued to overdeliver.

I am returning to BAQ in February to live in BAQ for about six months or more. Peter was able to help me find a very nice apartment (a suite in a hotel) that was safe and reasonably priced for when I return to BAQ in February. It is a furnished two-bedroom suite with a terrace.

I am also planning to study Spanish in BAQ when I return. Peter was very knowledgeable about the best places to study Spanish and took me to the university that specializes in teaching Americans Spanish.

As an American in BAQ, one of my biggest concerns was that a guide would not have my best interests as a priority. But when I met Peter I immediately sensed that I was dealing with someone with uncompromising integrity and unquestionable competence.

He was very knowledgeable about BAQ. He gave me qualified recommendations about everything of importance to me, from the best places to eat economically, to the best equipped gyms in BAQ and the safest places to find chicas. He also spoke English as well as any native English speaker.

Not only was he very knowledgeable about BAQ, but it was also apparent that he had established trusted relationships with the management of hotels, real estate offices, etc.

When I finished using his services, I was shocked when he told me the fee for his services. The price was incredibly inexpensive. Of course, I know that the cost of living in BAQ is substantially less than the cost of living in the U.S. But the quality of the services that he delivered was priceless by any standards. In fact, even after I paid him for the services that he had delivered, he continued to deliver more services at no additional charge.

For example, I own an Internet based business and one major concern that I had was having reliable high-speed Internet access when I return to live in BAQ in February. After I paid Peter for the services that he had delivered, he continued to negotiate with the hotel's management at no additional charge to assure that I would have unlimited high speed Internet access when I return in February. Peter not only had them put this in writing, he also delivered the document to me at no additional charge. He could have easily charged me extra to negotiate that agreement and to drop it off at my hotel room. But he didn't.

I cannot say enough good things about his services.

I wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone visiting or anyone even considering visiting BAQ. If anyone wants to contact me directly and has questions about Peter Solano's services, please PM me and I will give you my cell phone number and/or email address to contact me directly.

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Peter (Moderator) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Jan 7, 2007, 14:36:

yeti32 says on Jan 11, 2007, 11:48:

Hi Frank How do I go about contacting Peter Solano?

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lissethe a says on Jan 12, 2007, 14:22:

hello people from us... hi everybody my name is lissethe and i am living here 2 year ago and has no been easy living my family and friends in BARRANQUILLA.
i dont know to much people here, i live in DALLAS TX ,y me gustaria saber si algunos de ustedes es barranquilera(o) o colombianos y me dieran opinion.
ah! soy una persona muy amigable y si quieren amistad a la orden
cuidense mucho espero sus comentarios

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lissethe a says on Jan 12, 2007, 14:26:

americonos living in colombia BARRANQUILLA I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IS YOU ALL PEOPLE KNOW SOME AMERICAN PEOPLE LIVING IN COLOMBIA FOR A YEARS , I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHAT IS YPUR OPINION LIVING THERE. I AM FROM BARRANQUILLA AND MY HUSBAND IS A MERICAN AND HE WANT TO LIVE THERE BUT HE WANT SOME OPINION
CUIDENSE CHAOOOOOOOOOOOO MIS COLOMBIANOS

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psijemini says on Jan 12, 2007, 14:32:

Hey whats up ya'll!
I just Hey whats up ya'll!
I just recently finished my TESL course and
now I'm certified and ready to go(to Colombia of course).
I'm interested in Barranquilla for both its alien and diverse culture. Just a couple quick questions, and any help is GREATLY appreciated!

1. I'm more interested in tutoring than a University or classroom setting. Are there any resources I could use to locate families looking for private tutors? Even if I don't get to teach in a one-on-one atmosphere, it's my passion, so I'd still teach in a class. Are there any classifieds available on the internet without actually visiting the country? If I had the money I would just go and let it work out when I was there, but unfortunately I live in a trailer in South Jersey:).

2. What exactly is the F.A.R.C.?

3. Does anyone have any stories they'd like to share about teaching in Barranquilla or in Colombia in general? I'd love to hear some!

THANKS GUYS!

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Azul says on Jan 13, 2007, 01:46:

psijemini (Jersey girl) 1. It probably would be easier to find a position in person, but I seem to remember an online resource....I'll see if I can find it.

2. Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia - The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia–People's Army normally known as the FARC or FARC-EP, is Colombia's oldest and largest guerrilla group, established in 1964-1966 as the military wing of the Colombian Communist Party. The FARC-EP has since officially broken from that party and created a political structure it calls the Clandestine Colombian Communist Party.

http://www.farcep.org/

3. Keep reading this site, you'll hear good and bad. If you have specific questions about Barranquilla let me know.

las cosas caen por su propio peso

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Frank Black says on Jan 13, 2007, 20:52:

BAQ Guide Peter Solano's Contact Info I understand that someone on this forum wants Peter's contact info. Peter is the guide in BAQ that I used and that I also highly recommend. His contact info is as follows:

eamil address: petersolano at gmail.com
SKYPE nick: petersolano2007
cell number: 310 624 4078

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highenergy2003 says on Jan 14, 2007, 00:44:

Gringo viviendo en B/quilla I am an American who has been living in Colombia for over four years now. The first year was in Bogota and the last three in B/quilla. I happen to love the city and it's people, although I also can't deny that there isn't a whole lot to do there. I live in Barrio Santa Monica and find it to be relatively safe. Of course, I initially lived in Barrio Boston and enjoyed myself just as much there. My wife is Barranquillera, which makes things a lot easier as far as staying out of trouble is concerned. With you being from B/quilla, you ought to know more than anyone how your husband would accept the cultural change. I personally believe that cachacos have a hell of a lot better work ethic than B/quilleros, but then again, I also find costanos to have better personalities and to be a lot friendlier people in general. I hope that this helps.

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Shifty says on Jan 14, 2007, 17:23:

BAQ First, I would never stay at Hotel Magestic. I stayed there once and found the service very poor. Also, they were not very friendly. Porto del Sol is nice if you want to spend a little more money. I prefer Hotel Versalles for the price, (about $35.) and friendly service.
There are many good places to eat, from very inexpensive to very expensive. I like to go to the small open air cafes. Crepes and Waffles is good, and Mag Mondongo has very good soup. I actually eat a lot at the grocery stores. The food is good and reasonably priced.
There are many places to go around BAQ, just ask. There are some nice cabanas on the beach near Salgar. The zoo is nice too. There is somewhat of a train that takes you to the mouth of the Magdelena River, fancy it's not, but is good time. Check out Porto Colombia, Colombia's first port. If you want to golf, there's a golf course near the beach. I never run out of things to do around Barranquilla.

Shifty139us

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Neil customs says on Jan 22, 2007, 14:22:

WANT TO OPEN A CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE SHOP how are you? my name is Neil. i live in New York right now. but i will be moving to colombia soon. i am looking to open up a custom motorcycle shop there. but i dont know if the market for it is good. i want to do custom chroming, paint, air brushing and more. so i would like to know if people are looking for this kind of work out there. i also am looking for people that would like to work with me with the shop. i need someone that can do really good air brushing. i hope you can help me with some info about opening a shop like that.

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Neil customs says on Jan 22, 2007, 14:30:

hello Neil

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billyb says on Jan 22, 2007, 14:39:

Hey Peter, the link in your guide.... to Hotel El Prado is for some hotel of the same name in Italy.

BillyB

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d-morgan says on Jan 29, 2007, 20:24:

OutOfCuriosity Did they ever straighten out the tower looking building in Porto? Last time I was there, the government (I'm assuming) was trying to build a hotel, or something of that nature, on an unstable and shifting chunk of land and the whole structure was leaning about 25 degrees. This was on the way into Porto at the top of the hill overlooking the cabannas along the ocean. Anyhow, was just curious. This has been several years ago.

As far as food; no one mentioned the Arapas. My favorite are dousted in white sauce, mm mm yum) or the sweet Ampannadas. I'm fortunate to have a family in Barranquilla that adopted me so I have a place to stay and guided excursions that keep me moving the whole time I visit. Which isn't anywhere near enough.

Nice page, good info. Glad I registered!

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Steve57 says on Jan 31, 2007, 13:47:

Homes and Apts for sale in Barranquilla I've searched and haven't yet found a good site with lots of available real estate, single family homes for sale, or condos, in better areas of Barranquilla, eg, El Prado and the like. Any suggestions, mis amigos?

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Miguel says on Feb 1, 2007, 00:12:

EL HERALDO Lot's of realtors run ads daily, plus you can check the classified section, as well.

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costajunkie says on Feb 4, 2007, 17:40:

Real estate link Try this link:

http://www.mchaileh.com/?Lenguaje=Espanol

El Heraldo is what my wife and I used to buy our last two apartments, but this site will give you a good idea about homes and prices in BAQ.

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bhill says on Feb 6, 2007, 15:32:

Re: tower The building near Pradomar is called "Kilimanjaro" I think. It's still there, and I'd say it will be until it topples.

-Brian

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jediknight says on Feb 10, 2007, 12:34:

the link above for the prado hotel is wrong, this is the correct link. i've stayed at the prado and love it.

http://www.hotelelpradosa.com/

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ja122375 says on Feb 10, 2007, 19:55:

Let's have a Beer! I like finding new and interesting people to hang out with and party with during my adventures. So, call me on my colombian cell if you wanna have a beer or go get crazy sometime! (57) 3133846092

You can find me in Carnaval de Barranquilla with friends feb 15-18 and then I'll be in bogota feb 18-feb 28! send me a message or call me damn it!

ja122375 at yahoo.com or myspace.com/manoso

Take care!--Jason

--Jason

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julias man says on Mar 1, 2007, 18:38:

Barranquilla Hola, yo soy americano, y yo estoy tratando de ir a vivir en Barranquilla, lo mas rapido posible.

Lo hago porque quiero estar con la mujer que yo amo.
El resto no importa.
Barranquilla es una ciudad muy bonita, me gusto' mucho la gente que encontre alli'.
Entre Americanos, Colombia tiene una mala reputacion por las problemas, pero la realidad es yo corro mas riesgo saliendo a la calle aqui en Los Angeles que en Curramba... Caramba! :)
En cualquier ciudad en le mundo hay vecindades donde uno deve de ir y unos que no.
Por mi parte, como yo amo a una Barranquillera, tengo mucho curiosidad de conocer de donde salio' esa persona tan divina que encanto' completamente mi corazon....
Eso me fascina, tenia yo mis ojos bien abiertos cuando estba alli'.
Mi unica pena es que no puedo regresar ahorita!

:)
Yo soy un maestro aqui, no se si usted me puede avisar en donde yo podria encontrar trabajo en Curramba?
Quizas en una escuela enseñando el Ingles?

Por fa si me puedas consejar, Gracias.

Brian

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marthasofia says on Mar 6, 2007, 07:22:

Where do you plan open your shop? Because i have a nephew thah is mechanic for motorcycles.

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TonyMattei says on Mar 17, 2007, 15:42:

looking for apartment for rent i need an apartment for rent in barrenquilla en los prado area. 2 bedroom witch a kictehn, if some can help me i wuld appriacte it. i am going to visit my friends there but want my one privare place. as i hate imposing even thos they offered a place for me to stya i still like my privacy. i plan on goingduring semana santa

email at anthonymattei at saggiodream.com or on here

thanks

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cali373 says on Mar 27, 2007, 11:50:

Are you guys sure about the hotel rates listed above? I cannot find a price lower than $60.00 a night on their respective websites. How do you usually book the rooms?

Smile if you are a thinker!

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Azul says on Mar 27, 2007, 12:47:

this building offers a full kitchen, dinning and living area, bed and bath, for about 100.000 COP per day. Here is their website:
http://www.apartamentosalvarojesus.com/

As with a lot of hotels, you will get a better price than the web site lists if you book in person instead of the internet.

las cosas caen por su propio peso

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cali373 says on Mar 27, 2007, 13:19:

Does anyone know a decent place for about $US30-35 a night in Barranquilla?

Thank you

Smile if you are a thinker!

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sampy says on Apr 1, 2007, 15:59:

recommendation for finding a place to live You can try www.casarriendos.com, a lot of houses, apartments and photos... and you can write them in english.

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donau says on Apr 7, 2007, 15:17:

Frank Black, you were right !!! For a while now I have been reading what gets posted here. I can honestly say this is by far the best forum on the web as far as Colombia is concerned.

Thanks to Peter Van Dijck for putting up with us and giving us this wonderful forum.

Anyway, I have just returned from BAQ. After a wonderful week there, I feel like new and, ready to go back to work again.

I learned about Peter Solano in this, and other forums, and nothing but good things get posted about his service.

Well I did give him a try and I can honestly say that everything that has been posted about him is true.I was lucky to get him too, this guy keeps pretty busy.

Anyway, I emailed him asking for advice, he replied pronto, met me at the Airport, got me a nice fairly priced hotel and hung out with me most of the time.

BAQ can be a boring city at times, and during the week nights it is practically dead, especially from Monday - Wednesday.

But having a FRIEND who speaks your language just as well as you do. Understands you, translates for you, sees that you don`t get rip off, and gets your business done, besides watching your back can really make a difference.

Having a trusted "RIGHT HAND" in a foreign Country is priceless, especially if you don`t speak any Spanish as it is my case.

I saw a pretty girl at the Buenovista Mall, and he approached her for me, went out with her twice and had a great time. Too bad, I met her during my last two days there. But I will be back!!!

I truly recommend PETER SOLANO`S service for anyone traveling to BAQ.

He never over charges you, nor jerks you around.A great service rendered, worth every penny!!!

And here back in the States, I am still using his services when I call my Colombian girlfriend through his 3-way calling service.


If anybody is interested, here is his contact information:

Email address: petersolano at gmail.com
SKYPE nick: petersolano2007
Cell number: 011 57 310 624 4078
Telephone:011 575 378 4656
BAQ.

If anybody has any questions, please feel free to email me.

Donau.

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donau says on Apr 7, 2007, 15:20:

cali373 I am sure Peter Solano can help you find a place within your budget.Email him. Donau.

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Azul says on Apr 10, 2007, 17:11:

I have to wonder if all this love for Peter Solano is legit, or if it is just someone spamming the travel guide.....

las cosas caen por su propio peso

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Mr. Hollywood says on Apr 10, 2007, 17:14:

Wow Peter Solano must be a really great guy if he'll go out with a pretty girl for you not just once but twice.

Are you sure he didn't overcharge you for that? What DOES it cost to have a guy take out a pretty girl for you?

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donau says on Apr 10, 2007, 20:50:

To both of you...... Mr. Hollywood, that was funny, most likely you are a comedian. Is that where you work.......in Hollywood?

And to Azul,it is a legit referral!!!

But oh course you are free to think whatever pleases you!!!

I on the other hand, felt it was valid to point out someone overseas you can really trust, and whose services I have used. After all, if I understand things correctly, that is the whole purpose of these forums.

And anyone who has done some traveling knows, that is not easy to find, even in another city in America.

I felt it was useful to the forum to recommend someone, whose good and honest service I appreciated. Just like Frank Black did.

And Just like you would recommend a good Restaurant or Hotel in any city in any foreign Country for that matter. AFTER you have tried them out oh course, or else you would be posting bogus information.

There is no love here, just a service review and a well deserved referral.

But you are free to use whomever you like or no one at all.

I also feel your comment was very valid. It is appreciated, and deserved an answer. Cheers to both, Donau.

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jinksmiester says on Apr 11, 2007, 11:44:

anyone just visiting barranquilla might consider a furnished apartment.thats what i usually use here if im down for a month or so.alvaro jesus runs about 100,000 col pesos a night and the apartments are huge and nice with air cond.
anouther place is sorrento.60,000 col pesos a night..clean, air cond ,two bedroom with kitchen ,2 tvs,balcony ,hot water(shower) ,wireless internet,and security boxes to lock up valubales.and its in a good area.ph 358-2130

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

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dalharrma1 says on Apr 17, 2007, 20:48:

HELLO.... hello my name is marc and i am going to visit barranquilla, columbia in the next few months. i am an american and i live in arkansas. i met a beautiuful young lady through international introductions in barranquilla...we have been communicating by email and webcam for 6 months. i am going to get a hotel room at the hotel prado in barranquilla...my spanish girl will be staying with me for 10 days and she will be my guide in the country. i will not be traveling to bogota or cali. i may go to cartegena with my girl guide. we are very close and i am thinking of marrying her and bringing her back to the u.s. we have discussed this in detail. i do not know how much a visa will cost to bring her back to u.s. and she has a 9 year old son too. i will inquire with the u.s. embassy when i get to columbia. do you have any suggestions about securing her and her son a visa...i will be getting engaged to her while i am in columbia. she is coming to visit me in october of this year..i will be able to get her a fiance visa...i have been told this is not too hard. please if you have any suggestions or comments about the area...what is safe to do...what is not safe to do...if you have heard anything about international introductions...it is a latin-wife agency in barranquilla, columbia and the owner is an american named jaime...and his columbian wife is karina..please let me know. i will be in barranquilla, columbia for 10 days. please advise and please be truthful, marc

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dalharrma1 says on Apr 17, 2007, 20:51:

hello my name is marc and i am going to visit barranquilla, columbia in the next few months. i am an american and i live in arkansas. i met a beautiuful young lady through international introductions in barranquilla...we have been communicating by email and webcam for 6 months. i am going to get a hotel room at the hotel prado in barranquilla...my spanish girl will be staying with me for 10 days and she will be my guide in the country. i will not be traveling to bogota or cali. i may go to cartegena with my girl guide. we are very close and i am thinking of marrying her and bringing her back to the u.s. we have discussed this in detail. i do not know how much a visa will cost to bring her back to u.s. and she has a 9 year old son too. i will inquire with the u.s. embassy when i get to columbia. do you have any suggestions about securing her and her son a visa...i will be getting engaged to her while i am in columbia. she is coming to visit me in october of this year..i will be able to get her a fiance visa...i have been told this is not too hard. please if you have any suggestions or comments about the area...what is safe to do...what is not safe to do...if you have heard anything about international introductions...it is a latin-wife agency in barranquilla, columbia and the owner is an american named jaime...and his columbian wife is karina..please let me know. i will be in barranquilla, columbia for 10 days. please advise and please be truthful, marc

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dalharrma1 says on Apr 17, 2007, 20:53:

hello my name is marc and i am going to visit barranquilla, columbia in the next few months. i am an american and i live in arkansas. i met a beautiuful young lady through international introductions in barranquilla...we have been communicating by email and webcam for 6 months. i am going to get a hotel room at the hotel prado in barranquilla...my spanish girl will be staying with me for 10 days and she will be my guide in the country. i will not be traveling to bogota or cali. i may go to cartegena with my girl guide. we are very close and i am thinking of marrying her and bringing her back to the u.s. we have discussed this in detail. i do not know how much a visa will cost to bring her back to u.s. and she has a 9 year old son too. i will inquire with the u.s. embassy when i get to columbia. do you have any suggestions about securing her and her son a visa...i will be getting engaged to her while i am in columbia. she is coming to visit me in october of this year..i will be able to get her a fiance visa...i have been told this is not too hard. please if you have any suggestions or comments about the area...what is safe to do...what is not safe to do...if you have heard anything about international introductions...it is a latin-wife agency in barranquilla, columbia and the owner is an american named jaime...and his columbian wife is karina..please let me know. i will be in barranquilla, columbia for 10 days. please advise and please be truthful, marc

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dalharrma1 says on Apr 17, 2007, 20:54:

hello my name is marc and i am going to visit barranquilla, columbia in the next few months. i am an american and i live in arkansas. i met a beautiuful young lady through international introductions in barranquilla...we have been communicating by email and webcam for 6 months. i am going to get a hotel room at the hotel prado in barranquilla...my spanish girl will be staying with me for 10 days and she will be my guide in the country. i will not be traveling to bogota or cali. i may go to cartegena with my girl guide. we are very close and i am thinking of marrying her and bringing her back to the u.s. we have discussed this in detail. i do not know how much a visa will cost to bring her back to u.s. and she has a 9 year old son too. i will inquire with the u.s. embassy when i get to columbia. do you have any suggestions about securing her and her son a visa...i will be getting engaged to her while i am in columbia. she is coming to visit me in october of this year..i will be able to get her a fiance visa...i have been told this is not too hard. please if you have any suggestions or comments about the area...what is safe to do...what is not safe to do...if you have heard anything about international introductions...it is a latin-wife agency in barranquilla, columbia and the owner is an american named jaime...and his columbian wife is karina..please let me know. i will be in barranquilla, columbia for 10 days. please advise and please be truthful, marc

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dalharrma1 says on Apr 18, 2007, 15:20:

test mail

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superiorsurf says on Apr 19, 2007, 14:06:

Just a couple quick thoughts on B'quilla I wouldn't say I'm a local, but I have been there several times, amounting to a few months.

First thing to note is that there are (basically) two parts to Barranquilla; the North, and everywhere else. I haven't spent much time outside of the north, short of traveling around the country, and getting to and from the airport. So what I'm saying here refers to just the North part of town.
The city itself is not much to look at. The taxis, motos and coaches clog the roads, and saturate the air with their incessant beeping. It's HOT, everyday of the year. December and January are about the only two months you can walk down the street without melting into a fleshy puddle. There's poverty in a state that is not experienced in our cushy republics.
All that aside, I can't wait to go back. The people are friendly and helpful (especially if you speak the language). On every corner you can find the most delicious meal you've ever eaten. Simply unreal. Shopping is plentiful, and rather familiar. If you know where to go, the nightlife is a gas; plenty of good clubs and resteraunts. I personally prefer bellying-up at a tienda with friends and locals; cheaper, better eats, and more bang for your drinking money.

Like any large city (and I'd say 3 million is large) there is crime. Don't for ONE second think you're 100% safe. Be vigilant, keep a low profile, and carry only cash. Over the past few years I've noticed a decline in the overall safety of the city. In all my time there, I've never been a victim of crime, and I stick out like a sore thumb. However, it seems like someone in the family is a victim or some petty crime on a monthly basis. Sad, really.

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CaritadeAngel says on Apr 20, 2007, 07:59:

If you are a girl alone... What can you do in Barranquilla?

I've been here a month but mostly working like an animal and haven't seen much of the city. I'm interning with an NGO as part of my post-grad, so I dont have much money. And I'm a girl.

My boss more or less ordered me not to work so much and to take a day off, but what can I do with the time? I dont like nightclubs, but I dance salsa pretty well and would love to go out, but where is safe if you are not accompanied? I know from Mexico its a different story from Europe, where I can go out all the time by myself and no-one looks at you wierd. Latin America is different.

I'm in to high-end culture, but I haven't seen much beyond some Aguaslimpias paintings I saw once in a hotel lobby. (Not sure if they count, though his portait of Shakira is really something ;-)

Any ideas?




"Five things bring us closer to the unseen: the act of love, the birth of a baby, being in the pressence of death or disaster, the contemplation of great art, and the human voice lifted in song".

"I hope I never say anything worth quoting".

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RJQuilla says on Apr 27, 2007, 19:58:

Sorrento Does the Sorrento apartments have a website anyone?

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robertdelred says on Apr 29, 2007, 04:38:

Peter Solano Would be interested in knowing how to contact Peter. I have previously visited Barranquilla and considering returning as long as I have a good guide or similar services.

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donau says on May 7, 2007, 23:03:

Peter robertdelred,
Peter Contact information is else where in this thread. Never the less here it is again:

Peter Solano
Email: petersolano at gmail.com
Cell 310 624 4078

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bill230 says on May 12, 2007, 09:02:

Barranquilla Nice town

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UppercaseNIC says on Jun 6, 2007, 06:19:

Peter Solano How may I get in contact with Peter Solano....I am ineterested in moving to Barranquilla. I would love to get some feedback from Mr. Solano. Thanks, Nicholas

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poky says on Jun 8, 2007, 16:18:

i wanna branquilla more just to find my very special friend.. hi people of branquilla... i am Poky from Philippines 22 years old... i have a very special friend in branquilla.. he is a colombian national also living in branquilla... can i ask all of you here.? is branquilla safe and better place to stay with..? are the people there are open to homosexuals.? is the community peaceful.? i really wanted to go there...

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Jay Donado says on Jun 9, 2007, 16:50:

Colombiano I've lived in the US all my life and my parents never took me back to BAQ to visit family. Now at 36 and with kids I would like for them to get to know the culture and the people. Although my parents gave me an incredible opportunity for an amazing education my family history should have been part of it. Therefore I'm planning a 2 weeks trip with my Kids in DEC/07 and came to this site to see if anyone had some good information for site seeing and great family fun.

I never lost the pride of being Colombian and although my kids do not speak spanish I want them to leave Colombia knowing that BAQ has so much to show for and although very in Poor and still thriving they will experience for themselves not to judge a book by it's cover.

Help me take them to places that will make them proud of their heritage...

" Dios bendiga a mi curramba"

Jay Donado

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Barranquilla Expert says on Jun 16, 2007, 23:36:

Peter Solano is actually Frank Black/Donau, and is a fraud READERS BEWARE!!!! Many of the comments on here, including the initial one by Frank Black, Donau, e.t.c are made my Peter Solano himself to promote his touting services, just registering under other names. As a resident of Barranquilla, I have known Peter Solano for many years, and he is a known fraud around here. He rips people off with his services. They are actually not needed at all in Barranquilla, and the price he charges is almost like committing robbery in Barranquilla. He takes advantage of Americans and Europeans, so PLEASE DO NOT fall for his scams, and his FALSE comments on his service, as they are made by his alias's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Barranquilla Expert says on Jun 16, 2007, 23:49:

Peter Solano is posting under many alias's on here to promote .. READERS BEWARE!!!! Many of the comments on here, including the initial one by Frank Black, Donau, e.t.c are made my Peter Solano himself to promote his touting services, just registering under other names. As a resident of Barranquilla, I have known Peter Solano for many years, and he is a known fraud around here. He rips people off with his services. They are actually not needed at all in Barranquilla, and the price he charges is almost like committing robbery in Barranquilla. He takes advantage of Americans and Europeans, so PLEASE DO NOT fall for his scams, and his FALSE comments on his service, as they are made by his alias's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Barranquilla Expert says on Jun 16, 2007, 23:51:

Peter Solano is promoting himself using many alias's on here! READERS BEWARE!!!! Many of the comments on here, including the initial one by Frank Black, Donau, e.t.c are made my Peter Solano himself to promote his touting services, just registering under other names. As a resident of Barranquilla, I have known Peter Solano for many years, and he is a known fraud around here. He rips people off with his services. They are actually not needed at all in Barranquilla, and the price he charges is almost like committing robbery in Barranquilla. He takes advantage of Americans and Europeans, so PLEASE DO NOT fall for his scams, and his FALSE comments on his service, as they are made by his alias's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Barranquilla Expert says on Jun 16, 2007, 23:52:

BEWARE PEOPLE...Solano is using many alias's on here to promote READERS BEWARE!!!! Many of the comments on here, including the initial one by Frank Black, Donau, e.t.c are made my Peter Solano himself to promote his touting services, just registering under other names. As a resident of Barranquilla, I have known Peter Solano for many years, and he is a known fraud around here. He rips people off with his services. They are actually not needed at all in Barranquilla, and the price he charges is almost like committing robbery in Barranquilla. He takes advantage of Americans and Europeans, so PLEASE DO NOT fall for his scams, and his FALSE comments on his service, as they are made by his alias's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Barranquilla Expert says on Jun 16, 2007, 23:53:

BEWARE ...Peter Solano is using many alias's on here to promote READERS BEWARE!!!! Many of the comments on here, including the initial one by Frank Black, Donau, e.t.c are made my Peter Solano himself to promote his touting services, just registering under other names. As a resident of Barranquilla, I have known Peter Solano for many years, and he is a known fraud around here. He rips people off with his services. They are actually not needed at all in Barranquilla, and the price he charges is almost like committing robbery in Barranquilla. He takes advantage of Americans and Europeans, so PLEASE DO NOT fall for his scams, and his FALSE comments on his service, as they are made by his alias's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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CTina70 says on Jun 18, 2007, 19:54:

Barranquilla. I am not sure if the hotel toneloc24 was talking about was Hotel El Prado but the link is http://www.hotelelprado.com.co/. I stayed there for a week over Christmas in 2005 and I loved it. My cousin knows EVERYONE in town just about and got us the room for less than 70 bucks a night. The standard rooms they show on there website are probably some of the bigger ones they have because the room we had was not that big. It was cozy.

Anyway, I learned to swim in the Prado pool when I was 3 1/2. The main difference I noticed when I stayed in '05 was the swimming pool was mostly in the shade. The trees had all grown. lol

So, anyone living in B'quilla, if you go to Buena Vista, the candy kiosk on the 1st floor belongs to my cousin Edgargo and his wife Rosana.

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toneloc24 says on Jun 18, 2007, 21:27:

No CTina It was Torres del Prado, not Hotel El Prado. Two different unrelated places.

"Don't tase me, bro!!!!"

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