Canada's Better Than Colombia?

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:27:

hey and they're having a bad winter too...maybe she also likes that every canadian guy is running after her showering her with praise and whatever else she wants?

esanch36 says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:29:

Dont forget shitty health care system..high taxes

The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries

droble77 says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:34:

Well, I sincerely doubt Canadians wake up in the morning wishing their society was more like the states. Still, considering that most Colombians consider Bogota "muy frio", I wonder what this girl thinks of the weather up there. . . ? :0)

morphus says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:42:

Thats just the opinion of somebody not living in Colombia with a phat bank account, nice pension coming in and no need to work. Cold weather is a small price to pay for making a decent living. At least it stops snowing in Canada in June :)

peteyw says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:45:

Canada is great. The winter and cold is a serious problem if you like warm weather, but the abundant joys of living in Canada far outweigh the weather for many folks. I'm from the States, but I've been to Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and a summer in Ottawa and everytime it was a blast.

diabloblas says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:46:

canada: gdp 1.2 trillion per capita $36K colombia 374B per capita 9,000

life expectancy 77 m 84 f 68m 76f
literacy 99 % 93
schooling 6 to 16years 5 to 14 years

weather...slam dunk colombia

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:48:

I rant about Canada's socialized health care and high taxes, but I have to admit, despite those pains in the ass it's is a pretty damn good place to live.

Locals here always ask why the hell I left canada to come to this dysfunctional country, and in all honesty I tell them life was too easy in canada, so easy it lulls you to sleep.

Plus, I always believe in selling high and buying low.

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:49:

Maybe I'm an idiot, but I'd rather join some of our friends here who live under bridges in warm weather, than make 500K/year, and have to freeze 8 months of the year.

But that's just me.

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:54:

I guess she's not living in Winnipeg.

Canada better than Colombia? So is the States. If that's what you're looking for. Colombia has a lot to teach Canada about courtesy and joie de vivre. Better weather.

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 07:56:

oh yeah, and the weather, how could I forget that?

guess 'cause I have been away long enough not to remember

JuanMarco says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:01:

Depends on which side of the fence your on.
Colombians look North and dream of greener grass.
North Americans look South and dream of greener grass.
The grass is always greener on the other side.

Im pretty sure though, Canada has one of the best health care systems in the world. Everything is paid for and prescriptions are basically very cheap. Unlike our crooked health care system in the US which is just awefull!

Canadians are nicer than Americans as a whole.
Their cities are smaller and cleaner.
Its a slower pace of life without as much competition.
But, damm it gets cold in the winter! You have about 4 months to enjoy the nice days before it gets cold again.

pedro says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:09:

Check back with her again in two years, when the honeymoon period is over.

¡save pow wow!

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:09:

Better is a very comprehensive term.

Better at what?

Canada does have a far better economy than Colombia and a heck of a lot more opportunities for professional advancement. this is a country where you can pretty much achieve whatever you want if you have a bit of vision. That is what keeps me here. I'm not here for the weather (bbbbbrrr), the sights (unless we go to the rocky mountains) or the joy de vivre (I hear a dull roar).

By the way, the government does not pay for you to attend university. Canadian universities are much cheaper than american universities because they are partially subsidized by the government, but you still have to find the money to pay your 8k a year tuition. The government offers loans but there are certain conditions you must meet in order to qualify.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

Sam Salmon says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:34:

I too was born in Canada and live in Vancouver-a great place much of the time.

In spite of all our advantages most Canadians do nothing but bitch about this place, they have NFI how good they have it.

As to the young Colombiana as mentioned she'll tire of the constant cold weather and sullen withdrawn people.

' a la orden!'

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:34:

What?? How long ago did you graduate? I took an OSAP loan to pay for half my tuition and I had to pay back.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:36:

I'm as anti-socialist as they come, but canada's health system is not a disaster, just damn inefficient IMHO, meaning a lot of money gets wasted.

It pains me to admit it looks better than the US system, but I still think it's because the US system is so bad, not because ours is so good.

In Canada you hear of lots of people waiting interminably for MRI's or other surgery (knees etc),but I've also seen both my parents get excellent treatment when they needed it.

Someone pointed out to me recently that the 'universal' travel medical insurance he bought covers every country on earth, except for the USA.

Now that has to tell you something?

jinksmiester says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:36:

Everyone has different views..my wife is a colombian living in canada and no doubt loves her home country.Still she would not trade what she has in canada to live in colombia.She loves canada as well..even the snow and shaking frost off the tree,s....she finds that stuff beautiful along with the changing of the seasons...She thinks there is better opportunitys to prosper...and why would,nt she.. in colombia she had a very tough time just finding and keeping a low paying job...here she has a good job...nice house and car etc...along with a lifestyle that allows her to return and visit colombia.
I like colombia and want to retire there 6 months of the year in time...but as for making a living and raising a family planing retirment... i,ll take alberta,s booming economy any day.

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

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:39:

"Loan" is the operative word.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

jack_jason says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:44:

That usually comes from lower class Colombians. I have heared it all over the world from low educated Colombians.

This is just spanglish, please do not correct me

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:45:

I don't totally disagree with you pepe, if I had cancer I'd be looking to go to the Mayo clinic or whatever.

But if I have a broken leg, I'm happy to stay in canada and not pay $25,000 for it.

Maybe it's the legal system in the US that screws things up so much, malpractice insurance and all that?

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:50:

I came from a lower income family, but still never qualified for a grant from OSAP. My friends whose parents' owned their own businesses (and were wealthy but could hide it) did.

A good friend of mine bought a brand new Firebird with his OSAP money. Meanwhile I worked at McDonalds trying to save some beer money.

I smartened up eventually when I realized my working decreased my chances for a loan, so I quit working and went to school in summer too.

I imagine now it's even tougher to get anything but a loan, as CB says.

morphus says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:52:

Its becoming a trend. More and more Canadians are starting to hate Canada. Some are even starting to lie, saying they are Americans.

JuanMarco says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:52:

I agree with Pod

Pepe, nice article about your experience in the travel mag by the way. I enjoyed reading it.

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 08:56:

exactly, pod.

these outrageous jury awards for medical malpractice, and the resultant malpractice insurance costs, have driven the american healthcare system to be more concerned with expensive CYA than with the quality of care- on the administrative level. I have many friends who are health care professionals, and disgusted with the state of the system today.

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

JuanMarco says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:01:

lol. You can always spot a Canadian! Wearing white tennis shoes, colorfully striped shorts, hair neatly combed back, black socks, fabric belt with leather buckle. Eh hoser, whats for supper. lol

Marysol says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:07:

SALMON SAM,

Fellow Vancouverite here!

RE: "In spite of all our advantages most Canadians do nothing but bitch about this place, they have NFI how good they have it."

I couldn't agree more!! People have such a sense of entitlement and take so much for granted.

Admittedly, the climate is pretty harsh in much of the country, except here in our neck of the woods. People do bitch about the rain too, but I say, "Hell, you don't have to shovel the stuff" and it's essentially what makes the place so green and gorgeous.

BTW, my husband and I are flying to Bogota early tomorrow morning – it'll be our first trip to Colombia and I'm absolutely stoked. Having said that, it's always nice to come home, sleep off the travel fatigue, then go out for breakfast and take our dog (once she stops giving us the cold shoulder) out for a seawall walk.

¡Viva Colombia Y Canada, eh!

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:11:

"The other way to spot them is the always ask for a discount"

jajajajajajajjajajajjajaja

People in the service industry here in Florida HATE canadians, for that exact reason- and for their prolific tipping.

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:12:

Pepe, I paid my OSAP loan. I realized I could have come up with a thousand ways to not pay back but I did, every penny.

Para que despues no digan que los colombianos (o los inmigrantes) somos unos ladrones que abusamos del sistema.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:16:

I have been to friendlier places than Toronto.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

Robert Jorge says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:18:

Slguy, my thoughts exactly. Our snowbird, Canadian crowd is in town now. The easiest way to spot a Canadian in Destin is go to the beach right now. If there is somebody in shorts or in the water, it is a Canadian. (water temp is 55 or so, air is 50 and windy) They also ask for quantity discounts at already dirt cheap stores like Aeropostale outlet, where the average unit price is $9 US. The same item in Canada being around $50 Can.

ducaticole says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:29:

I'm from Vancouver too; going to school here. I can't wait to be finished up so I can move on. Canada was a great place to grow up but I don't want to spend the rest of my life here. There is very little culture and the people don't have the passion for life or the warmth that you see in Latin America.

I'm studying geology because, for me, it's the best way to get a great paying job overseas. I can't wait to really experience living and working somewhere other than here. I find the weather and people here to be so depressing!

guacharaca says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:29:

The only thing wrong with Canada is the two "W's" The Weather and the Women. Snowbirding in Colombia can possibly solve those two problems.

jinksmiester says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:36:

Its difficult to spot an american in a forien country...they are often hiding under the guise that they are canadian boldly wearing the maple leaf on there clothing and luggage.

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

jinksmiester says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:40:

just kidding....well...sort of

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

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:42:

Canadians' traditional excuse in the States for their miserly ways has been "the exchange rate is terrible!"

1. if you don't like it, stay home. Don't screw your waitress with a $.25 tip.

2. last i heard, the canadian dollar was doing nicely versus our dollar. so much for the exchange rate excuse.

I have a pal who owns a local bar/eatery. he tells HIGHLY amusing stories of the wait staff almost coming to blows over who gets stuck waiting on a big party (8-10) canadians. jajajajajjajaa

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

jinksmiester says on Jan 28, 2008, 09:46:

The u.s. recession may be bad for america but its great for canada...its just like living next door to a walmart store...

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

Mr. Hollywood says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:00:

I'm amazed by the comment that "Americans don't have to buy insurance if they don't want to."

I don't think most of the legions of people in the US who aren't covered by medical insurance are uncovered because they chose that. Most would LOVE to be able to afford medical coverage and services and simply can't.

Try pricing individual medical plans in the states sometime, even with a $5,000 deductible.

Robert Jorge says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:03:

Same thing here slyguy. At Friday's here, and many other restaurants, they will automatically charge a 15% gratuity if the group is suspected of being Canadian and has 6 or more people. The "official" rule is any group of 6 or more people, but it is only implemented for the Canadians. If they include the gratuity in the check for Americans, they stand a chance of making less in tips. Americans often tip 20% or more for excellent service while on vacation. In Miami, it is the same thing with the built in gratuity. They have the same problem, but with the Europeans also.

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:11:

Guys... Canada isn't that cold unless you live in Montreal. It gets cold in November, sometimes december, and by March that dissipates.

April, May, June, July, August, September, all warm months. October/November are temperate fall. This year, snow excepted.

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:15:

"By the way, the government does not pay for you to attend university. Canadian universities are much cheaper than american universities because they are partially subsidized by the government, but you still have to find the money to pay your 8k a year tuition. The government offers loans but there are certain conditions you must meet in order to qualify."

Tuition is less than 6K. The gov. subsidizes it a lot. In fact, it's only about 2K if you're from Quebec. Hell, if you're French, you can come and study in Quebec basically for free.

OSAP (Ontario student loan system and only reason I actually am able to go to uni) must be paid back. However they give you grants and loans if you qualify for full OSAP, so if you max out and borrow the 12K, expect to pay 7K back. Not a bad deal, IMO. They have also introduced a program where they start paying some stuff back, I don't know much about it, just that from last year I somehow owe almost 1k less.

jorgegdiaz says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:19:

with that cold and gloomy weather, they have to entice you somehow...
btw, how "cold" is "cold" during Nov - March ?

Man with hole in pocket feel cocky all day.

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:22:

I graduated a little over 5 yrs ago, I paid 6k a year tuition back then, amazing to know it hasn't gone up since then.... then again, I'm talking Toronto universities here, Quebec uni's are cheaper. Back then I borrowed a little over half of my tuition. The reason I didn't get a full loan was because I was working 35 hrs a on evenings and weekends, so I covered some of my costs through work. I did get an $800.00 grant (that I applied for) per year and when it came time to pay back they shaved about 1,500 off my total debt.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:22:

november generally not very cold. Dec-March in Montreal is hell. -30 sometimes, 5 degrees C to -10 at others. Sometimes it's like spring though. Toronto is almost always 5 degrees warmer, much more tolerable. Doesn't seem to bother the thousands of Latinos living here, mind you. My Colombian friends go as far as to give London Ont. rave reviews, a place where I personally probably would never live.

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:26:

You are right.... Montreal is significantly colder than Toronto. Toronto is slightly colder than NYC. Any part of Canada more than 200 clicks away from the US border is unliveable. London Ontario (aka Londombia) is about the same weather as Toronto. I have friends in London who moved to toronto. BTW, there is also lots of colombians in St. Catherines.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:27:

well, i've been at uni for a couple of years. It didn't go up in quebec until this year, where it just hit over 6K. U of T is still at 5.6 K, as far as I'm aware. Plus books and all, which will bring it to just over 6K.

There have been massive protests here in Quebec about raising tuition. Obviously I don't want that to happen until I graduate, but I realize that it is necessary, especially if universities such as mine are going to continue making legitimate claims to be on par with Ivy league and the top British schools. Hopefully if the tuition goes up, OSAP will go up proportionally, or I'm screwed, lol!

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:31:

Really? wow, amazing. Tuition costs haven't even gone up at par with inflation? The government subsidizes a big chunk of the tuition costs (otherwise we would be dishing out 20k per year), the goverment offers loans, you can work parttime while you study..... And people still whine and complain? What else do they want? The government to send somebody else to write their exams for them???

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:33:

but, canada has hockey.

god is in your head

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:35:

I'm with you, CB. Massive protests about paying 6k (canadian!) for a good education? Christ.

My oldest son is at Univ. of Virginia now. $40K plus per year. In the interests of fairness, the kid got scholarships that cover all but about $10K per year. I'm delighted to write the check for the rest. ;)

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:39:

Those people whining in front of U of Toronto don't realize they should be writing a 40k cheque instead of the 6k cheque. Talk about taking things for granted.

Back in Uni I used to study with a guy from New York. He came up here because it was cheaper for him cover college and living expenses here than to go to school in NYC.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:42:

"but, canada has hockey"

your point? ;)

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:42:

Wow, they were the same 5 years ago??? That is absurd! As I said, clearly from a selfish point of view I don't want costs to go up. With OSAP, grants and scholarships, I can just about get by, but still be 10K in debt by the time I finish my degree next year. But I realize it is necessary if top Canadian schools want to remain on par with the top British and American ones, and thus I would never protest against it.

Ironically, it's these quebec kids who are protesting slguy, not at paying 6K a year (god forbid!) but at paying more than 2k! These bastards pay 900$ per semester to go to school (less than 2K per year), whichever school even the one ranked best in Canada at the moment. Jeez, even to attend the best ones in the world and pay 2K/year? Even double that, and you're protesting? Get a grip. I witnessed a bunch of them march doing goose-steps and hailing the nazi-salute, and they barricaded themselves in some building.

All you can do is shake your head, and hope reality one day sets in.

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:44:

I am not sure if there are protests in Ontario, I was not aware of any.

See, this is what we protest about in Quebec... unlike in Colombia, we don't have anything real to bitch about, lol!

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:48:

except the cold of course ;)

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:49:

hockey is cool? no?

they have the queen too....

all jokes aside, canada is beautiful in the summer months. maybe not a great place to live with some major societal problems, but it is some of the prettiest terrain i have ever set eyes on - when they decide to actually let you cross the border that is ;-)

god is in your head

morphus says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:51:

Bullshit! April in Montreal is like January in New York. I went to Toronto in August and people were wearing coats. I had my closest brush with death driving back from Canada in November. There was snow and ice on the ground. My friend lost control of the car and we started spinning. One side of the road was a cliff and the other was a bank. It was basically a coin toss that we crashed into the bank instead of going off the cliff.

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 10:58:

August in Toronto is generally super hot. Maybe there was an artic front blowing through when you were here.

You must have been driving in upstate New York when you almost fell off the cliff (south of Syracuse?) the road in Ontario is flat as flat can get.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:00:

Morphus, you don't know what you're talking about.

August with coats? Yeah, maybe the one time you came to Toronto in August we wore coats. In August we are inundated with "Extreme Heat Warnings" and gov. recommendations to stay indoors, which particularly sucks for me because the past 6 augusts in Toronto I've worked outdoors. Toronto is one of warmest places I've been in August, bar none.

Montreal last year was messed. After a very temporate winter, we had a couple of blizzards in April. In fact, I remember meeting Rubito at some Colombian place, and it was friggin hailing and storming, as he'll tell you. The year before though, it was warm, and it was like summer. Montreal varies a lot.

November also varies in Toronto, but over the past 6 years it has been very mild.

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:01:

amazing. I just don't "get" having such an attitude, to complain about 6K- much less 2K.

Here's slguy's Abe Lincolnesque tale.....

I went to a small but VERY good private liberal arts university. I had taken a couple years off after high school to travel and work. I learned VERY quickly that manual labor wasn't my life's ambition, so I better get myself educated.

I paid the bill myself. I was a stubborn little shit who was too independent for his own good- refused parental help out of pure stupidity. ;) Worked like an animal, often at three jobs, to pay the 16,000 per year costs, and support my meager apartment, beater car, and trying not to become the skinniest guy in town.

Although my degree has proven to be pretty useless (BA in politics), that place taught me how to think and write coherently. Obviously, over the years this education has faded in the wind ;) - but they tried their best. I finished in three years, by going straight thru- summers, etc.

I could have gone to a state school at a much lower price tag, and at the time, wondered often why I didn't. BUT- I never felt taken advantage of, nor was I EVER inclined to complain at the costs involved. Frankly, I was pretty grateful, just to have the opportunity.

If I ever heard that one of my sons was protesting the costs of a university education, I'd point them to the annual budget of the school involved. After that, if their sense of entitlement was such that they still felt taken advantage of (after realizing what a failure I've been as a parent!) I'd bitchslap the little ingrates. ESPECIALLY if the costs involved for me/them were as trivial as 2K per year...

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:11:

" Frankly, I was pretty grateful, just to have the opportunity"

That's what a lot of people lose sight of, I'm afraid.

CatGirl says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:12:

Slgy: Hey! that's too close to my story! Are you spying on me, stalking me for the past 20 years? jaja

ooops! ....Did I say that?

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:15:

I'm guessing that if it's only been 20 years- I was leading by example, if anything, CG. ;)

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

El Polo says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:17:

Private institution are quite expensive in NYC, compared to SUNY or CUNY (state or city colleges) which are usually lower cost, however there are alot of people in NYC due to income or some sort of fraud, who receive full financial aid, are completely covered and still complain!!! I dont understand the logic behind that one, but then again this is NY and EVERYONE complains.

scotty says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:39:

i dont know if its better or not but it certainly is colder.

Get Rhythm, when you got the blues. Johnny Cash

CatGirl says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:47:

slgy: Ok you got me. Purrr

ooops! ....Did I say that?

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 11:58:

It's the age old adage.

Age and treachery trump youth and beauty every time.

jajajajajajajaja

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 12:13:

my step dad is the typical senior canadian snowbird, he's the cheapest guy alive. (I call him alligator arms: his arms are so short they don't reach his pockets : ))

He's a multi-millionaire retired doctor who stops his car on a busy highway and risks his life running across the road to pick up an old hubcap. I'm not exaggerating.

He'd spend $20 on gas and drive 3 hours to save $1 on buying something.

I recently had some elderly guests stay with me that had a medical emergency, which seemed close to life threatening at first, turned out not to be that bad. When we finally got an ambulance to show up, they were private and didn't recognize the medical insurance my guest had. They fixed her up anyway. They refused payment. The husband of the woman in trouble asked me how much he should 'tip' them. I'm thinking, life threating situation, $50 USD would be reasonable, being about a days salary for the guys. He pulled out the equivalent of $3.

Now maybe he was confused by all the drama going on, and the exchange rate, but still...anyway I told him to up it at least to $30, so he did.

Anyway if senior canadian men are the bad tippers, canadian women must be the world's worst jaja

JuanMarco says on Jan 28, 2008, 12:17:

At least Canada can lay claim to Pamela Anderson! They did something right. Ha ha!

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 12:23:

damn, pod. that kind of tight just make me crazy. I find it impossible to keep my big yap shut around tacanos like that.

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 12:26:

not to mention Linda Evangelista and damn what's the name of that hot country singer (hate the music but she's something else)? the one married to a guy named Mutt?

Marysol says on Jan 28, 2008, 12:33:

Hey,

What's up with the rampant hate-on for Canadians?

When people here (Vancouver, Canada) ignorantly spew anti-American sentiments, I'm the first to say "Don't over-generalize; I've met lots of very nice American people." There are few things that piss me off more than stereotypes passed off as *The Way It Is*.

BTW, I'm not even remotely affluent, but I routinely tip 15% for good service, 20% for exceptional – so don't be assuming all of us are cheap. Maybe it's a generational thing? People who grew up in the depression era might be a little tighter with their money.

Anyway, that's my 2 cents. (Plus 20% cuz I'm feeling generous.)

Catfish35 says on Jan 28, 2008, 12:38:

I cannot believe that anybody with sense would believe that the rising healthcare cost in the USA are a result of outrageous malpractice lawsuits. It almost sounds as if the unsurance companies are taking a beating. When is the last insurance you know gone bankrupt? And then I feel sorry the doctor? because he has to now squeak by on a couple million a year because his insurance rates are too high?
No I guess it does make sense to cap ALL medical malpractice to what? What was the idiot Bush's idea? I think $250,000.00. Thats real nice! Until it happens to you. How far will $250K take you when some idiot doctor or hospital cuts your legs off instead of your little toe? Or pulls your baby out and paralyzes it because he had a bad day! I guess with $250K you could motor around in Colombia in style, maybe an ATV wheelchair?
I love to hear this crap that lawsuits have done this to our healthcare system! ITS ALL GREED!! Pure and simple by the big boys!

"I refuse to have a battle of intelligence with an unarmed person, therefore I will just speak as the simpleton you have come to love"

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 12:45:

catfish, you oughta inform yourself a little better about the real costs of practicing medicine these days.....

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

CatGirl says on Jan 28, 2008, 13:00:

Catfish: My dear, my speciality is Medical - Legal (Risk management). In my experience - that over the past 35 years (slowly now) the major cause of increased healthcare costs have been strongly (but not all) linked to insurance companies, the need to be protected and the Cost of laws passed that Americans had no idea of what was attached. How many lawyers do you think are employed by insurance companies? Yes, lawsuits are a problem, in addition to the rising number of the older "sicker" population. The worst are the costs of co morbidities attributed to the obesity problem we have in the US. Of course, some of the cost can be attributed to waste and many new products out there (diagnostic and drugs) that originally are put out and marketed by medical professionals..then slowly the shift moves to sales people that really have no idea what they are doing and then we get into a totally different ballgame with ethics. I do believe the root of the problem is in the need to be protected -
Insurance companies, diagnostic product companies, drug companies...think about it. I am sure a toxic tort attorney could tell us. As these compnaies are responsible.
The cause of healthcare costs is a subject that could create one big thread in itself.
I think that if changes are to be made a person with "in the trenches" expereince should be employed and empowered to look into it, but it would take over a decade to get anything done. But it is what it is. All I gotta say is that most people that need rare or speciality surgery...usually come to the US for a reason and I hope that this never changes. It is the wealthy population that donates to the upper scale education hospitals such as Stanford etc.. Not all the money comes from patients - these hospitals have their own foundations.

ooops! ....Did I say that?

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 13:09:

Shania Twain that's it!

I think most of us canadians enjoy making fun of ourselves. shows we aren't insecure I think?

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 13:39:

Canada also seems to export their fair share of angry and ungrateful people who rode the system for what they could, and moved elsewhere while leaving their sense of persepective behind them. I don't care if they bad-mouth Canada, but they often muddle their facts. I can understand wanting to live elsewhere, think their hate-on excessive, wish them well, and understand passports are soon to be restricted to those with more connection to Canada than jilted feelings.

One would hope if these people are in the tourism industry they would not be alienating prospective customers.

Many Canadians are smug and boring, no doubt. Many defy this stereotype too. Toronto has its flaws and lack of friendliness, but if you can't find the party there you aren't looking too hard. And Toronto is very different from the rest of Canada. First hand, I can tell you the health care system does a better job than most countries of providing a reasonable level of care to a great many people. There are a great many flaws in the system; it gives mediocre value for money.

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

diabloblas says on Jan 28, 2008, 13:53:

if you have money colombia has it all over canada

...if not...canada has it all over colombia

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 14:04:

I would agree Colombia does several things much better than Canada, including lifestyle. Might move there myself one day. But I guess I know where the angry ex-pats stay, and frankly I'm not looking to meet gringos or speak English when I go to Colombia. One would hope your friends would have better things to do than bitch now that they have such freedom, but probably that's all they did in Canada.

I am not angered by your comments, not even faintly upset, but you seem like an angry person. Good luck with your hotel. Surely you could convince your parents not to live in such a hellhole?

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

Catfish35 says on Jan 28, 2008, 14:05:

CatG,
I never said that lawsuits are not a problem. They are with with many things. I am in the hospitality industry and even in that, lawsuits can run amuck! However, to blame the rising costs of my food on the fact that drunk drivers are crashing into people after they leave restaurants and bars is a bit narrow. Obviously, your profession gives you a much better insight into the topic I brought up. However, malpractice lawsuits, are but in my opinion a drop in the proverbial very large bucket that causes the rising health care costs. The health care system has become the famous runaway snowball thats screaming down the mountain. Who will get in front of it now and try to stop it? I certainly do not have the ass to spar in detail with you and your expertise, however, I know enough to combat broad canvassingt statements when I see one.
It is sorta funny that this comes to light right now. I was just denied coverage for a surgery that I need. I have a herniation in my cervical spine. Now, the common procedure with this is to go in and cut out the herniated disc, take a cadaver bone and stick it into the emty space, then take a metal plate and screw it over top of that to hold it in place!
This operation will cost upper 30K. I wanted to go to Pittsburgh where a doctor has a procedure that costs 11K and you get to keep your disc, no rehab and walk out the same day!
Reason for denial? They now are restricting the money to just their umbrella doctors, which means I was told that, they would rather pay 2 and 3 times more the money just to keep the funds in house or in region! This is just one example that touched me. How many more stupid shit is out there, I am sure Catgirl, you may have many no?
And I am supposed to feel sorry for the doctors in all of this? And OB/GYN are disappearing because as BUSHman says "they can't practice their love"?
What about the legit suits? Is $250K really alot for a retarded baby? Is it SLGUY, baby?

BTW, SLGUY, it sounds as though you may NEED that medication you accuse me of not knowing nothing about!

"I refuse to have a battle of intelligence with an unarmed person, therefore I will just speak as the simpleton you have come to love"

diabloblas says on Jan 28, 2008, 14:09:

canadian sky divers jump from american planes because of canada's insurance regulations

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 14:11:

Your website is interesting, showing many immigrants found out that the streets of Canada are not paved with gold and it has its share of problems. Not like other countries.

Canada is annoying because it takes a smug attitude and ignores its problems. Colombia is annoying since I can't see how its problems will ever be solved.

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

CatGirl says on Jan 28, 2008, 14:30:

Catfish "I never said that lawsuits are not a problem" -
Yes, I agree. I think it was my response that was not clear enough, sorry. To be as PC as possible- let me put it this way. Lawsuits and their existence have been a great selling point for US attorneys...fear is control. Many of the unnecessary laws and costs have been many times the knee jerk result/reaction of ONE bad expereince that was blown out of proportion. Hope this makes sense. We are now a culture of fear. And attorneys offer protection - (although I am not beating up attorneys either - they have their purpose too) - hope this makes more sense.
On your case, I am sorry to hear this. Not sure what type of healthcare system you are under. But there are laws out there that allow you to request an overturn of their decision (oops! it slipped - haha) Sadly enough this is a peice of what I do - there is a specific reason they don't like you to go outside, it's not quite what you mentioned. It depends on what your health care contract covers. If you have not done this..and feel strongly about having this specific surgeon - I recommend you contact your company pt service dept and ask about their "Appeals Process" - they may be a bit vague about this, but in most states you have the right to request an overturn of the decision. I would also need to know more about your system and your case to see what they would do.. anyways...sorry again

ooops! ....Did I say that?

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 14:34:

I said nothing about medication. where's THAT come from?

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 14:43:

Well, PepeA, I do agree with you on several points. I hope we can consider this a friendly debate.

The specific points that you make are that Canada is the most boring country on Earth, that it has no culture, that it has angry women, that you went to university there on the government's dime by declaring bankruptcy, that U of T was not a party school, that going back there is a painful experience for you and that you don't want to go back. And that you have taken legal means to stop your corpse from being repatriated.

Dude, there is some anger there. Nothing personal. It's not exactly hidden.

I like to think in growing up in Canada gave me the background to appreciate what other places lack, and what Canada lacks. Look, I agree with you about feeling joyous in Colombia in a way I do not do in Canada. I know many Canadians who have never travelled, and many more who have never left the resort bubble when they do. (Heard this yesterday: "I've been to Puerto Vallarta twenty times!" PV is lousy with drunken Canadian forty-somethings, who found Nirvana after five ten-peso margaritas.)

As for boredom, my personal friends don't lack joie de vivre. This is why I chose them. Boredom can come from too many choices as well as too little. Spend a year in Buenaventura and tell me about boredom.

Angry women? Colombian women are happier and easier to meet. But I really don't know many angry Canadian women.

My brother would agree with you about U of T. I wouldn't about my universities though. Hating the government for giving you a free university education? I don't get it. I do think Canada has a culture myself though many disagree.

Canadians bitch a lot and I would think they would make lousy hotel guests. Many are tacaño, too. I stay in nice hotels myself, but will occasionally stay in hostels if in a party city with nice ones.

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 14:52:

Hey man tequila, I agree with your balanced and worldly approach to this debate, honestly. Yes Canada does have culture, just not a very solid coherent national identity.

PepeA, I'm sure your parents know what's best for them.

If you end up being bored in Canada, especially when there are places like Montreal and Toronto that get better each year, it's your own damn fault. The women aren't angry (quite the reverse), I also would argue that the women are easier to meet here than in Colombia, but in either case, not a hard task.

Basically I disagree with every negative generalization made about the country in this debate (minus whiney quebec students and the cold), but perhaps that is because I stick to urban centres and avoid the boring freezing hellholes that make up non-urban Canada.

jinksmiester says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:01:

no offense...but perhaps canada is not the problem...perhaps its how you feel and relate to people...you sound like you feel canada has somehow done you harm..

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

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:02:

MIssissauga? Wow. Yeah, so I'll go and judge England by West Drayton, or let's base our opinions of the US on Detroit Central.

Better yet, I'll base all of my opinions of Colombia on El Poblado.

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:03:

Mississauga is D-E-A-D. Clean and new, but DEAD.... If you had been downtown Toronto you would have found tons of places. You could walk into any chinatown restaurant at 3 am and ask the waitress for some "speciarrrrrrr tea" and you will get a teapot full of beer. Then after a couple of beers you can order 45 (the pluto speciarrr). You will find any culture, flavour, drink, you name it. Even after hours.

Go down to College street for brazilian, Yonge street, Adelaide, Yorkville, Church street if you are into wearing tight leather pants.... . Sure it isn't the liveliest city on earth but you will find something to do.

There is lots going on here if you know people and places. I have some really cool friends here and they are the ones that make the city special.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:05:

I did misread your comments, PepeA, regarding your loan. My apologies.

But doesn't it say something that you could pay back those loans in six months? I did the same with my loans, and they were very substantial.

I personally regret spending too much of my time in non-urban hellholes in Canada. I did travel at every opportunity, starting when young. Shoulda stayed in Montreal.

Colombia clearly has way better parties than Canada. I can't speak for Mississauga. I know several people who would agree with 100% of what you say, PepeA, including Rubito here and on CBlog. But I think they overstate their case, and this since their case seems to me to lack substance. I've been able to find the party on a Tuesday summer night, but if not would hardly judge the country by that.

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:12:

"When I was a child going to school in Canada the teachers told us how lucky we were to have 4 seasons" hahaha, no teacher ever told me that! Even as a kid, I'd know it was bollocks!

Yeah, we love our communists, Harper et. al. I suppose you growing up in Canada as opposed to growing up in Colombia has no bearing on your now happy life in Colombia where you got to CHOOSE to open up a hotel? You'd probably say no anyway.

I went through a 'hate canada' phase, and probably won't end up living here later on. But we all bite the hand that feeds us, I just find it distasteful.

"Colombia clearly has way better parties than Canada."
Oooh, now this is where I begin to disagree. That is not clear. I think a few of my Colombian friends here would jump on me in protest if I were to say that Colombia has better parties, and despite the fun times I had during my year in Col, realistically I cannot justify making this claim. I just try and take the best from both worlds.

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:13:

All countries inflict patriotism on their youth. I'd say the US does it more than Canada. Canadian kids don't actually learn any history, Canadian politicians don't stand in front of flags the size of an apartment. I've never met a Colombian who was not proud, most do not appreciate criticism.

Taxes in Canada are bad, but not that much worse than the US now. I think Canada gets more than the US for what they pay, but not nearly enough. Canadians have a smug sense of complacency that can be annoying.

Many of the countries which you profess to prefer really have known Communism. You can say what you want, you might even expect people here to agree with this ridiculous comment. Even if I'd rather pay less tax myself.

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:24:

Again, if you're bored in Toronto it's your own fault.

I took my buddies to Toronto a couple of weeks ago who live in Montreal to study, and are from New York city central. They loved the city. They have a good enough perspective.

I used to live in London England, stayed extensively in BA and Medellin, Lima, now I live in Montreal, and Toronto ain't half bad. Again, your own fault if you;re bored there.

"It has no culture (this is official law in Canada) and the weather is unlivable."
Now that is a perplexing and ridiculous statement. Man, there are so many cultures in Toronto it's not funny. Same in Montreal. It's hard to take you seriously when you make ludicrous claims like that. More clubs, more development, more everything in Toronto (including the bad things).

And when you are messed up beyond belief, you begin to appreciate the health-care system.
For little things, it's not that great, but when you need it bad, you have to have some appreciation. No biting the hand that feeds you... Again, you are now doing whatever the hell you want, living a dream most Colombians couldn't, Mr. Normal Canadian dude, ironic, isn't it, the lack of opportunities and freedom that you eventually got from the country you despise.

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:28:

I don't think it is your fault. You have every right to dislike Canada. Speak the truth. Live how you want where you want.

I don't think you have angry feelings because you expressed your dislike of Canadian lifestyle, but rather how you did it. I'd agree with many of your criticisms, but there is a question of degree which does come across as hard done by, to say the least, through the poor and inexact medium of an Internet forum.

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:29:

More absurdity from PepeA.

So I suppose by your logic Australia must be 3rd world since they are not in close proximity to the USA? Yep, last time I checked that island on the other side of the world far away from everything was really in the duldrums...

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:32:

You show me this law. It is a law that is ignored, as I live in a Jamaican/Italian neighbourhood that thrives with their cultures.

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:35:

canada vs. canada

* i'm rooting for canada.

** i have met a few canadians with superiority complexes toward the usa, but then again, i have met many americans with superiority complexes against louisiana.

god is in your head

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:36:

Who acts like they are better than Americans? We don't. We have very good international ties with Americans. And vice versa. The same way that if the Chinese economy collapsed, the world's economy would fail. Do we wake up and sicophantically kiss the Chinese ass? No. Nor should we. We are what we are.

I suggest that your unfortunate experience with Canada reflects a very narrow view and paints the country in a very disingenuous light, which is the why the whole tone of this of debate is fairly ugly. I still stand by what I said, regardless of playing the American stocks, you did it IN Canada. That opportunity was provided to you.

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:37:

Especially when you claim that we are a communist nation, which we are clearly not.

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:42:

canada vs. canada - round 2

god is in your head

CatGirl says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:44:

jejeje

ooops! ....Did I say that?

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:44:

Actually, this contradicts your theory that Canada has no culture. In fact, it is inundated with culture, thus the term "multi" culture. Regardless, that's still bollocks. Small town Canada still has its own culture, whether or not the government recognizes it. If you look at everything from a theoretical perspective, you go backwards in life, and it doesn't make sense.

The law in England says you have to practice Archery every sunday...

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:46:

MIR - i think pepea said canada does not have 'its own' culture. not taking sides, but that is different from having no culture.

god is in your head

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:49:

Yes, but I don't know anyone who looks at Chretien as anything but a joke right now. Remember, we no longer have the liberals in power, so shows the true nature of what Canadians think of Chretien's party. At least our current prime minister isn't a joke, unlike the president of the states.

Anyway, it's a 2 way relationship. Remember the big black out? The United States made an immediate statement as to how the power outage originated in Canada. Completely and utterly unsubstantiated. Guess where it originiated... Ohio, USA. Did they apologize? No. Frankly, I couldn't care less, but there's anti-Americanism and anti-Canadianism coming from both sides of the border, matey-boy.

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:52:

But Canada does have it's own culture, regardless of what he thinks, and regardless of what the law recognizes. I don't particularly find that the culture to be anythign special, but it is a culture. Hell, I had to live on a farm in rural Canada for 3 weeks. They have a very distinct, small-town culture that I haven't experienced anywhere else in the world.

Go to Alberta and see the culture there, it would be ignorance to state that they didn't have a culture. The fact that Canada doesn't legally subordinate different cultures is a good thing.

pedro says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:53:

I think we need a whole new site where Colombians can get online and talk about their appreciation of Canada.

Canadians can join in the discussion too, if they like.

Working title: "Congelado Pero Feliz"

¡save pow wow!

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:54:

damn - just when i thought pepea was in the lead! sorry pepea - george bush is a moron!

- i voted for ross perot so maybe i am a moron too ;-)

god is in your head

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:55:

just came across this article about 'canadians' and racists in the us south...would be funny if it wasn't true?

http://www.nationalpost.com/most_popular/story.html?id=261254

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:57:

"Françoise Ducros who called George Bush a moron"

And he was wrong... how?

"Like I said, Canadians should get out of bed every day and thank God they are beside the USA and that Americans are so nice."

Wow, I'm thankful that Canada isn't full of sycophants like you, it's just a shame that Colombia has to inheret you.

Go tell Colombians that they should wake up and praise the lord that the US exists, see how popular you become.

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 15:58:

Pass the popcorn, someone?

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:00:

"Drinking too many Mooseheads and then getting into a big drunken fight is hardly something that should be called culture."

Oh, this is a fun game. Now, let's cut a cord with our local Colombian audience and make an equivalent generalization: How's this for culture... killing thousands of people in a pointless civil war and starting guerrilla movements that rape and pillage populations... sound familiar? What a fantastic culture.

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:01:

I've lost score, and I think I agree with both of them...

all I know is we could kick colombia's ass in ice hockey (and then somebody would probably murder the colombian goalie)

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:01:

canada vs. canada - round 3

pod - that is a hilarious story. never heard that b4.

god is in your head

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:02:

i like molson canadian beer - 6 of those will put you on your arse.

god is in your head

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:03:

"Colombians think it is great that I warn them just how bad Canada is before they waste their money going there."

Except the thousands of Colombians that apply and live here? Too bad some actually listen to you. The only Colombians I personally know here love it. The new ones even like the novelty of the cold, something which I can't bring myself to like.

Also ironic that, thanks to your superb advice, some never get the chance to visit and make these judgement for themselves.

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:05:

it's pretty funny huh tejas?

Now when I join an internet dating service and say I am 'canadian' am I going to get all kinds of black women answering my ad?

slguy says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:07:

hell, I live two hours away, and I'M dreaming of Miami!

Before you throw me out, make sure I pay my bar tab

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:07:

i dig black women. my first novia down here in mde was half caribbean black - muy rica!

i guess she was part canadian!

god is in your head

podborski says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:12:

looks like we have a new code word tejas. we'll use it in other threads and no one will know what the hell we are talking about.

we have to come up with some new sayings though. "once you've had canadian you'll never go back" just doesn't work ya know?

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:18:

"There is not a Colombian in Canada who is not dreaming of Miami."

This pretty much proves you're full of it, when you make absurd statements like this. This is so easily proved wrong it's not funny.

Teja, I gotta to be honest, I don't really like Molson Canadian. In fact, I hate most Canadian beers, minus Sleeman Red/Cream, Moosehead, Creemore, and a few select others from small breweries.

msaucey says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:18:

Damn, Canadian Universities are hella cheap in comparison.... My California State University fees were about $12K a year... about 10 years ago.... I hear they are way higher since then... And that's a public University....

Do they have any Canadian on-line classes? hmm...

The trouble about trying to make yourself stupider than you really are is that you very often succeed. - CS Lewis

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:19:

hey msaucey, you'd be paying 12K or less to go to a top school in Canada as an international student. Yep, this horrid terrible commie country is that nice to subsidize even your education.

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:22:

pod - how about, why did the canadian cross the border? to get to the kentucky fried chicken!

mir - what about kokanee?

god is in your head

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:27:

Yeah, because all students pay 80 grand in taxes, don't they PepeA. And the education, by US (and UK) standards, is worth much more than 12 grand

It's ironic how you insult 'commie' math, when the math you choose to use is simply inept.

Teja, the only time i've had kokanee is when I've been too drunk to care what i was drinking ;)

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:32:

that site was kinda disturbing for immigrants, pepea. is that chit true?

in the us - immigrants reach top status in alot of professions and private businesses. we are all equal, we just all hate each other to our backs. not really, but we talk alot of smack. it used to be the canadians we silently talked smack about. now it is the muslims. we call them sand canadians.

god is in your head

Chelesupercono says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:32:

Canada is fucking cold and full of CANADIANS........better in Alaska

never go to bed with someone crazier then you are, you will do it and you will regret it.......

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:37:

"that site was kinda disturbing for immigrants, pepea. is that chit true?"

No. I don't agree with many of Canada Immigration's policies, but I could create a site that was equally disingenuous about Colombia and the US to scare anyone away. It exagerates trends and facts 10-fold. Just come here and see for yourself whether or not it's true. You'll see that it tells only half of the tale.

"After the student graduates he will pay taxes through the ass until he dies unless he is smart like me and leaves the regime."

Not necessarily. Considering we have a conservative gov. that is all about LOWERING the taxes, and just look at Alberta... but then again, you'd have to be open to the idea of progressive change, and not stuck in the Chretien-bubble of self-loathing that you seem to be stuck in.

"Again, if you love Canada so much and hate Colombia, why are you here in this forum?"

Typical. I could have expected as much. A complete fabrication and lie to try and discredit me. I'm just trying to balance the disingenuous tripe that you use to paint Canada. Where do you get that I hate Colombia from? From the same fantasy-world that you got Canada being a communist nation from I suppose.

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:41:

atleast they'll let you smoke a hydro spliff in BC without coming down on you like the damn gestapo. that has to count for something, right? cops try to be super cops in the us.

* here it is great. screw up and pay a street tax........

god is in your head

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 16:48:

Just look at the GST. Just look at Alberta. It all depends on the government involved. And yes, my paycheques and tax rebates/return indicate that taxes are going down. At least in my tax bracket. We voted in a conservative gov. that has made tax-lowering one of their priorities.

If your point was "Canada is a communist country" you have proven no such thing. Canadians choose to pay high taxes. You didn't like it, so you got out. Good for you. If it means that there is a bit of wealth distribution, that's fair enough. It's all about balance. We see it hopefully in the services that we get. If you're moronic enough to think that Canadians do not decide what what's best for them, and that you know what's best for us, good for you.

Good riddance. There are plenty of people who are dying to get in.

Rubito says on Jan 28, 2008, 17:32:

If one were born and raised in Colombia and making my 1.5 to 2 million a month or more one would have to be NUTS to go to Canada. If one were born here and not doing so hot one would probably NEVER make it to Canada on their own steam anyways. But any country is like that.

One thing nobody pointed out yet: People in Canada talk about moving out of the country JUST AS MUCH as Colombians do. There are not only more Canadians than Colombians in the US there are more ILLEGAL Canadians than illegal Colombians. If it's such a paradise why do 10% of its citizens live outside its borders SAME AS COLOMBIA?

And I'm possibly the only guy here that has experienced the healthcare systems in all three countries. I'd say the US is the best quality healthcare, IF you can manage to get insurance or IF you can afford it. Colombia is second, and Canada is a DISTANT third. I will NEVER get treated in Canada again, barring a traffic accident or getting shot up there or something like that.

---Violence is the price of freedom.---

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 17:51:

"If one were born and raised in Colombia and making my 1.5 to 2 million a month or more one would have to be NUTS to go to Canada."

Well, several of my Colombian friends (and exes) in Medellin have left to Canada and Australia making more than that in Colombia. It all depends on what industry you go to. Some are just fed up with the violence and way of life.

"One thing nobody pointed out yet: People in Canada talk about moving out of the country JUST AS MUCH as Colombians do. "

Agreed, I'm one of them!

"I will NEVER get treated in Canada again, barring a traffic accident or getting shot up there or something like that."

That sucks Rubito, sorry to hear. I had some fairly serious stuff happen just recently, and even more recently to my little bro, and the treatment was excellent and rapid. We're not even on a plan or anything other than normal OHIP. Perhaps it has improved since you last had treatment?

However in rural Colombia, the healthcare isn't so good (perhaps the same can be said about Canada though). And many of my friends in Colombia despise the healthcare system, some of the horror stories I've heard from Medellin healthcare (despite having excellent plans) makes me very wary of what happens to me there. Again, maybe Bogota is better?

manINred says on Jan 28, 2008, 17:54:

That being said, when my parents first moved here in the 80s, they were cursing Canada's healthcare. So I know where you're coming from. And, interestingly enough, they're on their way back to the UK anyway...

Oh well. Take the best from all the places you go. That's what I say.

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 18:23:

damn - nice diggin pepea....

god is in your head

Monpirri says on Jan 28, 2008, 18:34:

I want PepA to be on my team! I have been reading this post with amusement and I tell you PepeA you're a man of caliber! You know how to present a case.
Congratulations Mr. PepA on this debate.

Annette Taddeo for US Congress 2008

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 18:38:

how do they benefit from relations with cuba? are they trading partners?

god is in your head

Monpirri says on Jan 28, 2008, 18:46:

Now let's take a commercial brake!

Annette Taddeo for US Congress 2008

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 18:50:

ahhhh. i forgot you guys go to cuba for tourism all the time. do canadians invest heavily in hospitality real estate as well?

god is in your head

Robert Jorge says on Jan 28, 2008, 20:01:

Those guys in the Canadian Communist Party picture look like pansy-asses. That dude's, with the weasel face, biceps are non-existent. He has negative muscles. And their complexion looks like my computer screen. I thought I was white. Damn.

tejasmarcos says on Jan 28, 2008, 20:08:

"He has negative muscles"

LOL!

god is in your head

Man Tequila says on Jan 28, 2008, 20:10:

PepeA knows how to debate? Jajajajaja. Good thing he isn't a lawyer.

Having lived in Canada over 30 years I do not know a single Communist. Not one.

I do know many people who fled to Canada from Eastern Europe in the 1970s or China, Vietnam, Cambodia and 1980s Peru. Their perspective of communism differs from yours. It is a real perspective.

Many Canadians pay 40% of their income in taxes. High, but not that different from the US once you factor in what it covers. If you are self-employed you pay less than this.

Canadians are certainly cheap, and this is why they go to Cuba and the Dominican in prepackaged holiday bubbles with no real exposure to a Third World country.

There are lots of pictures of Nixon in China. They also prove that 40 years ago a politician tried to extend ties with a Communist country. So what? And how did being in Canada stop you from investing in the US stockmarket?

See, it sucks you could not find a homeless person to party with in Mississauga. But even your criticisms fall flat. If I was homeless, I would probably be hoping for shelter or someplace to go. That might be even BETTER than partying with Pepe, even if he has lots of fancy pictures or feels hard done since he could not find a homeless person. See, NOT finding homeless people is a good thing. The fact they are easy to find in Colombia is a bad thing. You may disagree, but I'll bet you've always had a roof over your head.

People who emigrated to Canada appreciate it more than those born there who lacked nothing.

pues se me antoja que sus cantares son de una tierra desconocida, y yo le dije si a usted le inspira, saber la tierra de donde soy... con mucho gusto y a mucho honor...

Monpirri says on Jan 28, 2008, 20:12:

Here we go again, part II

Annette Taddeo for US Congress 2008

Colombiche says on Jan 28, 2008, 20:16:

" How's this for culture... killing thousands of people in a pointless civil war and starting guerrilla movements that rape and pillage populations... sound familiar? What a fantastic culture."

Hey, this is a fight between canadians and americans.... how did Colombia get in there? Ustedes son los que se estan dando madera por todos lados, nosotros esta