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First trip ever 2008 seeking recommendations

Ok here goes I would like to make 2008 the start of my nextstep to learn about Colombia its people and culture. Whats the best way to go about it, where do I start,time of year to go, first city to visit, where to stay ,what to do.
I guess you need details, from U.S. So Calif , male, 52 single,kids grown,still working self employed. Would like average to above average accomidations.Time week to 10 days. Little to no spanish ,yes I will start classes,slow learner dont want to wait. Willing to pay for guide to assist while in country.Do the electronic translaters help any. My intention and thought is Colombia will sooner or later continue to improve security wise, if as it appears this may be a great opportunity time wise to invest and to plan for my future (part time 1-3 months a year) outside the U.S. I would never move permantely because of family. What am I looking for, a change to be a spectator ,excitement,spent the last 30 yrs or more working becoming dull.Possible meet someone (not a hooker) to spend time with. Been to Costa Rica several times but feel its a little late. I've got to leave for work will check post tonight. Thank you for the input.

By Nextstep on May 14, 2008, 08:53 in Friendly Talkzone.

Mononoke28 says on May 14, 2008, 09:29:

There's a post around here from a guy who lived in Canada and the US for 18 years who can translate and show around. I think he lives in Medellín which is a great city to visit, by the way. You can contact him to see what he charges and what he can recommend.

As for the best time of year to go, I personally like the party atmosphere so going in July for the Feria de Las Flores (Flower Festival) or Christmas time is the best. If you like it more quiet then maybe September-November will work for you.

Diana

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Mononoke28 says on May 14, 2008, 10:06:

Here's the guy I was telling you about

http://poorbuthappy.com/colombia/post/good-services/

Diana

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jonas says on May 14, 2008, 14:30:

Christmas? .... everybody is with families and the cities are dead. Only places with a ChristmasPARTY might be Cartagena or San Andres.

Mi alma se la dejo al diablo

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rumronrum says on May 14, 2008, 16:29:

Why not start in Medellin. Copa and American have grear flights from LAX. Here's a place you might want to stay at and learn more about Medellin http://www.medellinviphotel.com

Good Luck!

RumRonRum and http:/www.medellinvisitorguide.com and http:/www.medellinexecutivehotel.com and http:/www.communitywalk.com/medellinexecutivehotel

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angelcanada says on May 14, 2008, 18:17:

YOU BETTER STAR IN MEDELLIN, ESPECIALY IN AGUST FOR THE FLOWER FESTIVAL, IS ONE OF THE BEST PARTYS IN COLOMBIA, PLUS IT HAS THE MOST BEUTIFFUL GIRLS IN THE WORLD

MY NAME IS ANGEL. I AM COLOMBIAN AND LIVED IN CANADA AND THE USA FOR 18 YEARS. I RETURNED TO MEDELLIN AND WOULD LIKE TO OFFER SERVICES AS INTERPRETER/ ESCORT AND DRIVER. I CAN ALSO HELP IN FINDING SHORT TERM APT. RENTALS.

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jonas says on May 14, 2008, 19:54:

anybody else want to put up a commercial here?

Mi alma se la dejo al diablo

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Nextstep says on May 15, 2008, 03:46:

Thank's for the help gives me a start.

Life is for the moment. Smile be happy enjoy and enrich others.

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Mononoke28 says on May 16, 2008, 08:08:

jonas,

Are you for real? The cities are not dead during Christmas time in Colombia, especially not Medellín where everybody goes there to see the lights on the river and take chiva rides all over town. La Playa is a blast, not to mention El Parque de Envigado which is an all night party place in December. Cali is also another city that has a full blown party in December especially the last week since that's when they have La Feria de Cali and it is a blast.

Diana

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Chriscan says on May 16, 2008, 18:28:

With kids I would definately recomend the Santa Marta area. There are lots of beaches and kids love beaches. For upscale places, check out the towns of El Rodelero or Bello Horizonte. the city of Santa Marta isn't the attraction. It's ok for a day or two but there are numerous parks, beaches and small towns to visit in the area. 10 days is perfect to see a bit of it all.

If the kids are over 10, San Gill might be a good option for rafting paraglinding, caving and those sorts of things. There are some incredible colonial towns in the area as well.

You would probably want to visit Cartagena too as it isn't far away. The adults would enjoy the history and the city there and if the kids cry about not being at the beach there are some alright ones there.

Send me a message if you want more info on Santa Marta. All of Colombia has a lot to offer adults but for kids, Santa Marta is for sure your best bet.

************* WARNING ************* my words often come from my ass. www.independentbanff.com

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jorgegdiaz (☼Travelguide writer) says on May 16, 2008, 19:00:

Chriscan is probably right. Go to the beach.
Christmas is always the best season to go. It doesn´t have to be Medellin, ANY city has a lot to offer (ok, most of the big cities... Bogta, Barranquilla, Medellin, cali, Bucaramanga, Cartagena, Santa Marta, ... even Pasto... lol)

Democratic party or Republican party is fine......as long as theres a party!!!!!!!

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