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Cartagena: Not yet ready for prime time

Monday, April 27, 2009

Cartagena: Not yet ready for prime time.

First, I know this entry is going to make some people upset, but its the truth.
Cartagena is a wonderful place. It's a paradise, when you stay in the old city or in a swanky condo, and never venture out in the to real world of the beach and tourist streets. Cruise passengers get dropped off, go walk around, and return to the safety of their ship.

After 4 days in Boca Grande, I'm wondering why none of the foreign travel writers write about the problems on the beach. Then I realized, its because they never go there and are only shown the best the city has to offer. They never write about the constant begging for money in the old city. It just seems to me the city has taken on an air of despiration. The tourists who come are targets because the city is a case study in extremes. If you dont mind the begging and hassling, then you will love the sunset at Cafe del Mar. Walk back to your hotel with blond hair and blue eyes and you'll get asked for money or to buy something at least 20 times.
It was simply out of control this time. And the tourist police werent doing anything to discourage it.

On Boca Grande for example, if you are a gringo, be prepared for dozens of people to hassle you for money. It completely destroys the beach experience. You cant go in the water without worrying someone is going to steal your bag. Case in point, I went down to the water for 2 minutes after telling a dozen vendors NO GRACIAS and returned to find my bag opened and my cellphone gone. I should have stayed at the hotel pool. When I went to look for a police officer to report the theft, there were none around. All the vendors were looking at me with a cruel smile. One of them knew what happened but nobody was saying.

In Miami Beach, it's illegal to sell things on the beach. Perhaps Cartagena should consider a vendor free zone. It was simply too much. Even a group of tourists from New York who were sitting by me commented how horrible it was and left after 20 minutes to go back and sit by the pool where the vendors couldn't attack.

Pro Export has done a great job of showing the world the beautiful hotels and condos and restaurants. But these places are castles far away from the poverty and despiration of the reality of the city.

If you are planning a trip to Cartagena, my suggestion is be prepared to pay too much for a lovely, but safe place to stay... and dont leave your hotel unless you want to get hassled. If you're an American, the price doubles. I've been going to Cartagena for almost 10 years, and this last trip there showed me the beach and sidewalks of Boca Grande are simply out of control. Mayor Pinero should take the initiative to do something to regulate what's happening. Otherwise, more and more Gringos will visit and leave with the same impression I did this time.

http://brianandrews.blogspot.com/

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Some fools on this site always claim that I am too positively biased in regards to Colombia. I post this blog entry to demostrate that I am fair when it comes to Colombia's reality. I had the same unfortunate experience that Brian Andrew's had in Cartagena a couple of years ago and it disappoints me to see that this situation hasn't improved. I hope this gets out and that the authorities take notice and decide to do something about these pushy touts that are putting a damper in visiting Cartagena.

By Simon on Apr 28, 2009, 20:55 in Friendly Talkzone.


Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 28, 2009, 21:12:

Solution is really simple, Simon. Dont go to the touristy beaches in Bocagrande and El Laguito...there are many beaches nearby which do not have as many vendors. The vendors have a right to earn a living by using public beaches. The lazy ass tourists only visit places which are convenient for them. Heaven forbid that they would be inconvenienced! sounds like brian andrews hasnt learned much after 10 years of Cartagena time. Seems like a PeeWee Herman type as well.

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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Simon says on Apr 28, 2009, 21:21:

The vendors may have the right to earn a living but they shouldn't have the right to constantly harrass people! When I was there, this one guy kept insisting that I try some sort of drink from a seashell, and after I acceeded, he kept badgering me for a dollar to the point where I felt I was threatened (he kept putting his hand on my shoulder)! I remember looking around to see if there were any cops first, but there weren't any around. This is unacceptable and the city should step in before some tourist gets stabbed by some tout who can't take no for an answer!

"Just an honest, decent Colombian trying to do the right thing."--Simon

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Elmin says on Apr 28, 2009, 21:30:

"This would probably happen on 90% of the beaches in the world" no it wouldn't.
If you do a little background check on Brian Andrews you will find out he has a bit more credibility that just any other random blogspot writer :).

That aside, i cant understand who would want to go to any beach at Cartagena anyway, but hey to each his own

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Robert Jorge says on Apr 28, 2009, 21:40:

It wouldn't happen here in Miramar Beach / Destin. 2nd most 'driven' to vacation destination in the US. (#1 being Orlando)

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

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pedro (☼Travelguide writer) says on Apr 28, 2009, 21:41:

Elmin says on Apr 28, 2009, 21:30 (today): flag

"This would probably happen on 90% of the beaches in the world" no it wouldn't.
If you do a little background check on Brian Andrews you will find out he has a bit more credibility that just any other random blogspot writer :).
--

Not a whole lot more credibility. He still speaks awful Spanish, and he got the Mayor's name wrong in the above blog entry. Not just a one off, his other published reports are riddled with misspellings as well once he crosses over to Spanish.

On the main subject though, I tend to agree. Cartagena should take a lesson from Santa Marta. On Rodadero beach, the vendors are present when you want to buy something, but never too pushy or disagreeable. They are all accredited and display an ID tag worn as a necklace.

"this may seem a strange post but it is not...when in colombia men need to be aware that colombia women may try to be seductive and entice a travelling gringo to have sex with them..to be forewarned is to be forearmed..." -- pow wow

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Escape Artist says on Apr 28, 2009, 21:43:

Why on earth would anyone go to the beaches in Cartagena? They are some of the ugliest and disgusting beaches I've ever had the misfortune to visit. I did however enjoy my time in the old city and I didn't experience what the OP did while enjoying the sunset at Cafe Del Mar. I also enjoyed my four night stay on Isla Palma where not one vender could be found. While walking around within the walls of the old city I had a great time and never felt hassled or threatened. The people, venders, were not going overboard nor was I overwhelmed by them. All in all I enjoyed my stay within the old city but I will say the other areas of Cartagena outside the walls of the old city were less than desirable from a "tourist" viewpoint, with the exception of the fort. There are so many other nicer coastal areas in the world I wouldn't put Cartagena on my top 50 list.

EA

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Simon says on Apr 28, 2009, 22:03:

Aaron, the guy is so ridiculous that he founded the first ever English-language news outlet in Colombia! It receives thousands of hits each day and has a growing legion of fans on Facebook.

"Just an honest, decent Colombian trying to do the right thing."--Simon

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Escape Artist says on Apr 28, 2009, 22:04:

Actually Aaron the first few minutes of one leaving his/her towel is the perfect time for someone to do their bad deed. They've watched the mark and typically there's more than one individual involved. The one committing the crime and at least one look out. Happens all the time at beaches throughout the world and is definitely not limited to the beaches of Cartagena. It can happen in La Jolla, California, Cabo, Marbella you name the beach it can and does happen.

EA

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Escape Artist says on Apr 28, 2009, 22:10:

Not defending anyone and yes someone can leave their towel for only two minutes. Example: You walk down to the water just to get your feet wet and look around at the people in the water and then return to your towel. Two minutes!

EA

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Simon says on Apr 28, 2009, 22:12:

Yeah Aaron, it's unbelievable that we Colombians want Cartagena's beach experience to improve, right? They need to regulate the pain in the ass vendors, clean up the dirty beaches (and import some sand, if they can)!

"Just an honest, decent Colombian trying to do the right thing."--Simon

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Simon says on Apr 28, 2009, 22:15:

Gee, thanks...I think.

"Just an honest, decent Colombian trying to do the right thing."--Simon

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Cheers Terry says on Apr 28, 2009, 23:14:

Good honest post Simon, and your appraisal of the easily accessible tourist beaches in Cartagena is (unfortunately) dead accurate.

Cartagena has been trying to clean up their act for years in this regard, but there are social/political factors that have (thus far) made it impossible.

Best of luck to them in the future...

Cheers,
Terry

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Simon says on Apr 28, 2009, 23:27:

Thanks Mr. Terry, I appreciate it.

Btw, if they ever need a dashing, young Colombiano to star in one of your films, you just give me a heads up, lol!

"Just an honest, decent Colombian trying to do the right thing."--Simon

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dwmte7 says on Apr 29, 2009, 03:36:

in 1997 when i was stuck in cartegena to clear a container, shipped from miami, out of customs. for all the red tape and bullshit, i was "stranded" there for near a month.

i had met a young colombian gal from san andreas--a morena--who was kinda rastafarian in character, she had dreds down to her knees.....longest i ever saw. and like many san andresitos, shespolke english. i would run into her near daily, coming and going from my hotel and shared a meal with her on many occassions, becoming pleasant friends.

one sunday morning, i ran into her having breakfast and commented that it was a gorgeous, windless day and would be a great day to go to the beach. she agreed so, finishing breakfast we each gathered up our stuff and grabbed a hak and went to boca grande.

musta been about 10 am by the time we got to the beach, but since it was an absolutely perfect beach day, the beach was so crowded that one could hardly find a spot to lay down a towel, bodies stretched from boca all the way back up to the walled city.

after we had settled in and were snugly stretched out on our towels just inches from the next person, my gal friend sat up and said, "douglas, do you realize you're the only white person on the beach?" 'huh? i thought, then i sat up and for real, as far as the eye could see.....black bodies. and me the ONLY white spot on the beach. ah! boca grande. NOTHING has changed there, other than more of the pains which have always been there...hustlers, beggers, vendors, et al.

patriarch

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richardshari says on Apr 29, 2009, 04:20:

Well now that the problem was stated where do you suggest tourists should stay at? I've been to Cartagena but that was over 10 years ago and we went to the beach and there were a few vendors but no one too pushy. Actually it was great having them come up to us and preparing shrimp cocktails and what not. We didn't have to get up and go anywhere to get food. So what I want to know is, are there any hotels with private beaches? Where the vendors can't reach you and it's closed to those not staying there? I for one, am going to Cartagena next month and it would suck to just stay in the pool, the child we're going with wants to go to the beach.

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sanandressi says on Apr 29, 2009, 07:21:

If you are going to Cartagena for beaches you are going to be disppointed. Islas Rosario is where you ant to go or San Andres. The Miami beaches are better than Cartagena's. Santa Marta? I dunno.....

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Haddeman says on Apr 29, 2009, 07:34:

Many years ago everybody stopped going to Marrakesh because of the hassle with aggressive vending and begging.The Moroccan authorities realised their cash cow had been sent to the abbatoir so dramatically cleaned up the place,throwing many of the little arabs in jail if they were not licenced.The place improved almost overnight and is a pleasant and enjoyable place to visit now.
Cartagena will have to make a choice,maintain the status quo and scare of most of the visitors,that way it is a lose...lose situation or get tough,licence traders,get tough with the others and that way nearly everybody prospers.
I for one will not go again to Cartagena because the point is to relax,spend my pesos locally and enjoy the beauty of the place,but with a tribe of Dickensian urchins accompaning you at every point it makes the experience somewhat tiresome.

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judgeschmails says on Apr 29, 2009, 07:49:

I agree that the beaches have gotten out of control. I was walking with a friend there in November and I saw a gringo (could have been British, but my gut said US at the time) get hit by a big 2x4. I do not know how the fight started, but a Colombian and the other guy, who was a big guy, were yelling at each other, one in Spanish and the other in broken Spanish/English. THe next thing I know the guy runs across the beach and grabs the wood and comes running towards him. My instincts when seeing a man come at me with a Cartagenean 2x4 would have been to run. As in rock paper scissors, where nothing beats rock...a two by four will win every time. And it did. The guy got crushed cause he stood his ground and didn't initially run anc called his bluff. Mind you, this probably took 60 seconds. And then they guy got back up and was running from the guy, there were about 30 police who I never saw there. Mind you, I am not bold. I kept what I perceived as a safe distance. But I did note at the time that the police did not (while I was there watching) arrest the Colombian. I am sure there is plenty more to this story that I do not know. But I had never seen anything like that on any beach. But this shook me a bit. I was with a friend who was visiting for the first time and his attitude was, I love Cartagena, but let's get back to Medellin where it is safe. HA!

I don't read into things and can handle the vendors with a 'no hay plata' But when I was there, I did have to get stern a few more times than I prefer. And this was not just on the beach. This was everywhere I exited a cab. It is more sad than anything and I try to help when I can. But it does get overwhelming there. And that is why I prefer other places. But Cartagena will always have a place for me.

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-Salsero- says on Apr 29, 2009, 07:55:

Cartagena will not be ready for another 10 years. I hold no stake in any corner, but to me Cartagena must be The_Worst_Dump_in_Colombia (Bogota excluded). Clean up your act, or stay poor. Simple as that. For the one's saying "well, stay away if you don't like it" , - It got to be a quite contra-productive approach, from a poor streetvendors point of view.

But on the other hand, as the forum is Called "Poor but happy", you can't expect that much businessminded thinking to surface, right? ;)

Best greetings to everyone / -Salsero-

If it's right, It's smooth and nice.

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elSapo says on Apr 29, 2009, 10:55:

"but to me Cartagena must be The_Worst_Dump_in_Colombia (Bogota excluded)"
Agreed.

ANTI IS GONE! ELMO IS GONE!YOU KEEP THE PAPAYA. VIVA PBH.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 11:13:

I dont like the pesky vendors like the massage girls on the CTG beaches either, but they dont bother me at all. They look for eye contact from the tourist or non-locals, so i just ignore them and they move on. I believe their right to earn a living in a fucked up economy clearly outweighs the "inconvenience" some pasties my feel. Go to a beach where there are less, so the feelings of the tourists dont get hurt. Problem solved and life goes on and on and on......

but the vendors continue to ply their trade because other pasties are using their services and/or buying their 20 mil Rolexes.....that is why they come back, so you could say the tourist bring it upon theirselves.....jajajjaj

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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elSapo says on Apr 29, 2009, 11:17:

"I believe their right to earn a living in a fucked up economy clearly outweighs the "inconvenience" some pasties my feel."
That is true. Regulations or not, those persons have the right to survive.

ANTI IS GONE! ELMO IS GONE!YOU KEEP THE PAPAYA. VIVA PBH.

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ColombianoGringo (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Apr 29, 2009, 11:22:

I am quite used to vendor culture in Colombia. I thoroughly enjoy the sights and sounds of public markets and street hawkers selling everything from mamoncillos to souvenirs. In fact, when in San Andres and other parts of Colombia, I happily buy all kinds of bullshit from vendors.

However, the vendors in Cartagena are aggressive and completely out of control. If the city government is serious about turning Cartagena into an international tourism destination, they should take steps to control the problem on the city's most popular beaches. It shouldn't be incumbent upon the tourists to have to hunt for a beach with less vendors. I am not suggesting that these people not be allowed to make a living, but driving away tourists certainly won't help them or the local economy in the long run.

For me the way to solve the problem is to simply not go back. I will simply keep going back to San Andres instead.

Yo me como los mocos debajo de la ruana pa que no me pidan.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 12:27:

i think that Cartagena is already, and has been for quite some time, an international tourism destination. The positives far outnumber the negatives here in Cartagena. But, as always, you cant please everyone all the time.....and there are more than a significant of whiners here...i say just go with the flow and all will be happy.....=)

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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Brody says on Apr 29, 2009, 12:35:

In Cartagena, I stayed in a hotel that was near Marbella, pretty empty, few vendors. Left my expensive things in the hotel, no problems. The water was warm like a hot tub, although not your stereotypical clear blue gorgeous slice of paradise in the Caribbean. It was pleasant enough. If someone is looking for a real beach resort vacation, there are many other options, in Colombia as well as all over the Americas.

Once you get out of the old city and the tourist beaches, the city is a real eye opener. Taking a bus from the hotel to the Cartagena terminal gave me a good hour long tour of the more impoverished parts of town, amazing considering the tourist paradise right next door. And the market called Bazurto? Yikes!

It is going to take a while for Cartagena to become Miami, assuming that's what anyone wants.

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Saltador says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:07:

I'm along the lines of Miguel Clavo. Granted, the vendors on the beaches are the one constant complaint people have about cartagena, it's achilles heel as it were. But having said that, they don't even register on my radar when I'm thinking about cartagena, or when I'm there. No more an annoyance to me than an occasional gnat flying around my head. The massage girls are the most aggressive in my experience, but I've never had one touch me while I'm on the sidewalk. My policy when I'm at the beach is a pleasant "No gracias" followed by they just ceased to exist. And dar gracias a dios that you're not the one trying to feed your family by selling your wares to strangers on the street.
The San Andres comparison really doesn't work for me, your'e comparing apples to oranges and forgetting that (for me anyway) it's a hell of a lot harder to get to, plus the cost of an extra round trip ticket. (Been there, done that, bought the T-shirt off a non agressive street vendor.) To the people who just can't tolerate the vendors, just don't come to cartagena, it's that simple. Go to medellin and visit Pablos grave, go to Cali and be strip searched in the airport, etc etc. Whatever turns you on, we won't miss you.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:08:

Alot of locals go to La Boquilla, a stretch of beach starting from roughly Las America Hotel to La Bouquilla proper. I think the beaches there are better, more things to do (jetski, boating, etc), fewer vendors, much more open space, and is only about 10 minutes from Bocagrande and El Laguito...lots of apartments and places to eat. A lot of construction going on as well. of if one wants to stay in the tourist area, the beaches near Hilton and Castillogrande like tomtom33 mentions are nice. There are vendors there but most are located near the street and sidewalk, not on the sand.

And there is always Playa Blanca......

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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elSapo says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:13:

I think that it is easier to straightly say that if you want to go to a nice beach do not go to Cartagena.
Beach vendors are not a big problem, but you risk to meet some annoying half mexican gay ex biker that would surely ruin your vacation.
Almost like meeting a fat old pedant irish.

ANTI IS GONE! ELMO IS GONE!YOU KEEP THE PAPAYA. VIVA PBH.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:18:

you dont love me anymore, Sapo? and RAAAY either?

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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elSapo says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:20:

I knew that the word ex was gonna bother you...

ANTI IS GONE! ELMO IS GONE!YOU KEEP THE PAPAYA. VIVA PBH.

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Brians says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:36:

What about a nice Finnish fella?

12VOIP.com gives free calls to Colombia. Brian

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 13:49:

none of it bothers me, really......this is the internet.....=)....but when i purchase a bike in colombia i wont be an ex- anymore.....although i do have a specialized mountain bike here that i ride on a regular basis.....so i guess i am still a biker of sorts.....

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 14:19:

nope, they are in the US awaiting shipment by container to Ctg.......too hot in Ctg and not conducive to mountain bike riding or along the beaches......

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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elSapo says on Apr 29, 2009, 14:28:

Still fond at BMW? Buy a KTM.

ANTI IS GONE! ELMO IS GONE!YOU KEEP THE PAPAYA. VIVA PBH.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 14:36:

i did find an importer of BMWs here in Ctg but have not had the time to check them out..i still cant believe the prices for used imported bikes here...a used BMW 1200GS goes for 40-45 millones in Colombia and that is more than a new one bought in the states.....i will have to hit Robbi666 up for a loan if i knew where to find him....jajajjaja

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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elSapo says on Apr 29, 2009, 14:39:

That's an awful amount of money... really, I think that you would do better with a KTM in Colombia.
Email Kevin, he had one and knows everything about it (prices, dealers, etc.).

ANTI IS GONE! ELMO IS GONE!YOU KEEP THE PAPAYA. VIVA PBH.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 14:47:

KTM makes bikes over 1000cc or only the small motos? i will get a Harley when i have a place in Medellin or Manizales...weather is conducive to riding Harleys there...but an enduro style bike would be better along the coast...is it Kevin or Ken? RAAAY referred me to a Ken who i believe i met in Medellin last time i was there.

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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elSapo says on Apr 29, 2009, 14:58:

Yes, you met him. I PM you.

ANTI IS GONE! ELMO IS GONE!YOU KEEP THE PAPAYA. VIVA PBH.

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Monpirri says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:07:

Simon, que regionalismo tan patetico que padece usted!

Regionalismo exagerado = tercermundismo

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

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Simon says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:14:

No Monpirri, yo solo estoy criticando a unos vendedores fastidiosos que nos danan la experiencia de visitar Cartgena.

Tampoco estoy pregonando que Medellin es la capital del sida de Colombia como lo hizo usted! Eso si es un regionalismo enfermizo y esos comentarios irresponsables solo le hacen dano al pais! Shame on you!!

"Just an honest, decent Colombian trying to do the right thing."--Simon

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:19:

Those venders are Colombianos as well, right? i mean like real Colombianos living in Colombia types?....just curious....

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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Simon says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:21:

Yes, but they're pain in the ass Colombianos!

"Just an honest, decent Colombian trying to do the right thing."--Simon

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:23:

sort of like billyb, right? jajajajajaj

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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billyb says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:28:

Hey, I have a right to sell my trinkets on the streets of Burlingame.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:31:

damn, you ARE stalking me! MODSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! jajajja...so you gave up selling massages in Btown as well? clients complained of the 50w motor oil you were using???

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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billyb says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:36:

Used motor oil at that, health dept didn't like it much ;)

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

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Monpirri says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:39:

Miguel_Clavo have you seen Mantequilla in the last 9 days old?

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:41:

Help! someone please translate MP for me?? WTF are you talking about, MP? is that like a movie or something??

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:42:

If it is a movie, no, i havent seen it...if it is something else you are referring to i have no clue what you are talking about.....enlighten me.....dont mean to be rude, but i am not sure what you want to ask me....

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 15:46:

Man Tequila?...is that what you are talking about? no, i have never seen Man Tequila...he did however, post a Simpsonized photo of himself.......jajajjaja

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

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Monpirri says on Apr 29, 2009, 16:06:

MC, you since to know a lot about Colombia since I see you in every post, I have a question for you though.
You questioned me for posting a 9 years old article about AIDS do you know what's the current or today's development of said epidemic?

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

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manINred says on Apr 29, 2009, 16:27:

The most interesting part of this thread is Simon and Monpirri arguing over who insults Colombia less... :)

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:27:

no, and to be honest with you i dont give a flying fuck about the current or todays, or tomorrows development of said epidemic!! i have more important things to worry about, like your retarded posts and the future of Mexican cooking, which is more widely eaten in the US than your moronic fetish with colombian vegetables and fruits.....how you like me now, biaacchhhhhhh!????

seriously, you have mental issues, and i for one would gladly donate some plata for your rehab....let me know where to send it.....i can probably get some other pbhers to contribute......=)....heres to arepasssss!!!

btw, you will notice alot of my posts are attempts at humor and have nothing to do with Colombia...and i have never claimed to be an expert on Colombia...i leave the title of Expert on Colombia to those generic colombians who have spend little time in their own country and who have forgotten or never learned about living here.....hmmmmmm.......ring a bell?

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:29:

oh, shit...do i need to put LOLOLOLOLOL on the above post??...=)

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

sloopskipper says on Apr 29, 2009, 17:31:

I'm not sure why (maybe) experienced travelers constantly whine about vendors in Cartagena, but I have seen worse elsewhere. But, hell "You ain't in Kansas anymore Dorthey!".

I actually had to get the police involved on St. Barth’s, because of an overly-aggresive vendor.

I didn’t lie in the sun in Cartagena, but walked on the beach a couple times. A couple vendors approached me but they were quickly dismissed.

This young chap (Juan) offered this inexpensive necklace, which I bought. But he also gave me a 45 minute walking tour of Isla Grande:

Juan

I also bought a cheap T-shirt at one of the beautiful plazas from a young person

I found Cartagena to be a genuine delight, like Viejo San Juan (where I lived before), but nicer.

I almost thought that I could live there, but Colombia seems too complicated.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

sloopskipper says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:10:

Elmo, I had few problems with those poor people trying to make a living.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:11:

they dont bother me at all...its the tourists here who get on my nerves..jajajjajaja

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:16:

Darloup....i live here in Ctg...since 2007......

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Monpirri says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:25:

Jajajajajajaja."he called this modefoque who called another modefoque and that modefoque called another modefoque"

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Monpirri says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:27:

Miguel_Clavo, I don't care much about the future of your ongoing propagandas, that's your favorite products or all that bologna food.

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Monpirri says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:41:

Travel Guide to Cartagena, Colombia

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:44:

" Monpirri says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:27 (today): flag

Miguel_Clavo, I don't care much about the future of your ongoing propagandas, that's your favorite products or all that bologna food."

will somebody please translate that for me??? is that ebonics or something???

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Monpirri says on Apr 29, 2009, 18:54:

Mongo, it's pretty cool isn't it? I found it in Youtube.

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Colombiano_81 says on Apr 29, 2009, 23:20:

hey elmo what happens if you dont like the chica they bring you?

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dwmte7 says on Apr 30, 2009, 02:48:

simon.......did i actually hear you say..."they're colombians...but pain in the ass colombians"

that's a first.

patriarch

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Simon says on Apr 30, 2009, 11:16:

Yes, you did, Dwmnte. Who says I can't be fair?

"Just an honest, decent Colombian trying to do the right thing."--Simon

0 funny, 0 helpful.

dwmte7 says on Apr 30, 2009, 14:35:

cool, bro.....that's my main man, simon.

patriarch

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Monpirri says on Apr 30, 2009, 16:46:

Darloup, thanks it's a great video! He who ignores history is doomed to repeat it.
It's funny but I noticed that role of France back then it's now similar to some your actions here in pbh.

Viva la France!

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

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quantum says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:18:

thnx for the warning Darloup. I was gonna watch it until I saw how long it was. 30 minutes, man, its a full length feature film. I will have to program it a week in advance.......

quantum

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Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:20:

Fok this thread! i agree...lets kill all the pesky vendors in one fell swoop!...=(...Tourists: 1 Pesky Vendors: 0..........

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Apr 30, 2009, 17:50:

Dont make eye contact with them...that is what they look for, as if you are interested in what they have to sell....ignore them, they go away....or we can kill them all, that would solve the dilema faced by the OP....

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Monpirri says on Apr 30, 2009, 18:23:

Darloup, it's a compliment buddy!

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

0 funny, 0 helpful.

elSapo says on Apr 30, 2009, 19:24:

" Remember that, as with any forum, most members are passive members"

He knows... he knows...

ANTI IS GONE! ELMO IS GONE!YOU KEEP THE PAPAYA. VIVA PBH.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on May 1, 2009, 00:17:

Darloup...this one if for you:

facetious - 5 dictionary results

fa⋅ce⋅tious   /fəˈsiʃəs/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [fuh-see-shuhs] Show IPA
–adjective 1. not meant to be taken seriously or literally: a facetious remark.
2. amusing; humorous.
3. lacking serious intent; concerned with something nonessential, amusing, or frivolous: a facetious person.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Origin:
1585–95; facete -ious; see facetiae

Related forms:

fa⋅ce⋅tious⋅ly, adverb
fa⋅ce⋅tious⋅ness, noun


Synonyms:
2. See humorous.

Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.

Explore the Visual Thesaurus »Related Words for : facetious
bantering, tongue-in-cheek
View more related words »

fa·ce·tious (fə-sē'shəs)
adj. Playfully jocular; humorous: facetious remarks.

[French facétieux, from facétie, jest, from Latin facētia, from facētus, witty.]
fa·ce'tious·ly adv., fa·ce'tious·ness n.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2006 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
Cite This Source
Facetious

Fa*ce"tious, a. [Cf. F. fac['e]tieux. See Faceti[ae].]

1. Given to wit and good humor; merry; sportive; jocular; as, a facetious companion.

2. Characterized by wit and pleasantry; exciting laughter; as, a facetious story or reply. -- Fa*ce"tious*ly, adv. -- Fa*ce"tious*ness, n.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, © 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.
Cite This Source
Language Translation for : facetious
Spanish: burlón, German: scherzhaft,
Japanese: おどけた
More Translations »facetious

adjective
cleverly amusing in tone; "a bantering tone"; "facetious remarks"; "tongue-in-cheek advice" [syn: bantering]

WordNet® 3.0, © 2006 by Princeton University.
Cite This Source

facetious

1592, from Fr. facétieux, from facétie "a joke," from L. facetia, from facetus "witty, elegant," of unknown origin, perhaps related to facis "torch." It implies a desire to be amusing, often intrusive or ill-timed. "Facetiæ in booksellers' catalogues, is, like curious, a euphemism for erotica." [Fowler]
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper

"You started to be a genuine poster here on PBH."...........WTF????

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Monpirri says on May 1, 2009, 02:37:

Darloup,

"Whatever I said to Miguel Clavo also applies to you, Buddy Monpirri :-)" I'm not sure what do you meant by that? I have not been paying attention to the chat between you and the clown.

"Anyone who still thinks that Colombia is not a gastronomical paradise needs to have their head examined." Darloup

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Miguel_Clavo says on May 1, 2009, 08:46:

MP, you hurt my feelings, querida, ...take it back! jajaja...bobo..and you read everyone of my posts and you know it...so dont be talking out the wrong blowhole..again...ggggeeeezzzzzzzzzzzzzz...........

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Cheers Terry says on May 1, 2009, 10:38:

Gringoloid, have you ever tried Providencia or is it simply too quiet/boring for you?

Cheers,
Terry

0 funny, 0 helpful.

billyb says on May 1, 2009, 13:28:

GL, while in Providencia, you can look around for Capt. Morgan's buried treasure, rumour has it that, that is where it's buried.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Cheers Terry says on May 1, 2009, 22:30:

Gringoloid,

Everything you ever needed to know about Providencia, from my pal Paul:

http://boards.bootsnall.com/a-little-paradise-in-the-middle-of-the-car...

Enjoy!

Cheers,
Terry

0 funny, 0 helpful.

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