First time in Colombia-advise

mariasman says on Nov 9, 2005, 09:21:

No worries mate Listen, if you are flying into Cali, you have nothing to worry about with the exception of the same things that you may worry about in any city in the USA or London or Germany or,,,,Greece??? Well, I don't know about Greece but just be natural. They really like foriegners in Cali and you will have a blast at the Ferria de Cali. I will be there for sure and I am bringing my daughter with me who is only 9. Just avoid the bad areas of town( just like here in the USA) and don't get wild and crazy and obnoxious( just like here in the USA) and try to learn some Spanish because I think it is respectful and shows that you are ambitious and you will have a great time. My only fear about Cali is the local panaderias(Bakeries) where I can easily gain ten pounds and look like I am pregnant so avoid too many arepas and Almohabana and Chicharones( Christ, I love that fried pig flesh.). If you are going with your friend who is Colombian then you will for sure have a great time because chances are that he knows all the un touristy stuff which is what I like.

mariasman

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Lucia Rojas says on Nov 9, 2005, 13:24:

Athens can be dodgy Man. I remember some dodgy areas in Athens where (being colombian and all) I didn't feel so safe...

I actually think it will be easier for you than for many of this gringos... je je je

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kasu says on Nov 9, 2005, 13:48:

me too I am travelling to Cali too for Feria de Cali. My friend is from colombia and currently both of us are in US. I am originally from India and looking forward to a great time in colombia. I absolutely love all food so tell me which panaderias to go to. dont mind putting 10 or more pounds. as far as spanish goes, it am working on it though much slowly than i anticipated.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

adela says on Nov 9, 2005, 13:53:

Mariasman(Chris)

Your post about Cali and your feelings as a visitor here is something that any gringo should read before comming: what to expect of a Colombian city. Good idea for Griego
http://poorbuthappy.com/colombia/node/14020

Màs fe, màs abrazos, màs besos, màs disculpas, màs visitas a nuestros amigos antiguos nos haràn màs plenos cada vez. (Wishing to practice my listening in English virtually)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

adela says on Nov 9, 2005, 13:59:

Caso and panaderias

by the way caso, on December everybody here get some pounds more. Panaderias are part of the problem, also sweet food: natilla, buñuelos, arequipe,desamargado,brevas....so much sugar to resist!!! ;)

Màs fe, màs abrazos, màs besos, màs disculpas, màs visitas a nuestros amigos antiguos nos haràn màs plenos cada vez. (Wishing to practice my listening in English virtually)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

europe says on Nov 10, 2005, 07:31:

first time in colombia hi, I come from Italy. . Cali is wonderful especially if you speak the language. Do you know Marathon, in Athens Greece? Tell me about that place, please.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Wannataco says on Nov 10, 2005, 10:26:

You will LOVE Cali! I have been to Cali 6 times as my wife is from there. I stay at the family home, drive the car, and do things just as if I were in any large city. You will find it the most friendly place you have ever been, and the festival you are going to attend is so much fun with the music, food, and activities.

Just be yourself, don't worry about any issues, and just be smart.

Mike Edwards Madison, WI

0 funny, 0 helpful.

griegomiami says on Nov 15, 2005, 10:03:

Griego Hey thank you for the advises guys. You know first time in Colombia you hear so many things you kind of scared but i think now i am good.
Well as you said every place you go you need to know where to go, dont be like a tourist.
--
My other thought is, when i meet people or women shall i say I am from Greece or I live in Miami, or shall i say sth completely different.
Others tell me is good to say you live in Miami now, others say tell them you live back home.
I am condused, any help?
Thank you

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Lucia Rojas says on Nov 15, 2005, 10:39:

Say youre greek why wouldn't you? Unless you are ashamed of being greek? ( I dont think so) You will get less hassle not being american. and teach them greek traditions, they will love it.

0 funny, 0 helpful.