Not dating colombian women

jay1234 says on Feb 14, 2007, 18:23:

If it were me.... I would go to the north coast...I really liked Cartagena for the beaches, great restaurants, and the old city. Some might not like this type of stuff, but my girlfriend and I had a great time going to a private island tour there (pay for a day, go on a boat with a group of about 20....we spent the morning at private beach about an hour from Cartagena, had inclusive lunch (pescado y arroz con coco)then toured this great aquarium (all the fish, sharks, and dolphins are in the water, fenced in these great big pens and you look down on them from walkways. I think kids would go for that) back to the beach for a couple of hours, then return to Cartagena at sunset. Only advice is to take bottled water, better than to pay tourist prices on the private beach concessions). Without kids, I would say Barranquilla. Medellin has a lot to offer, museums, Botero plaza, the cable car metros would be fun if the kids don't freak out from the heights. As far as safety, no, I don't know of any accurate sites, most of them focus on the negative. I would just say this. When I was in Medellin, it was noticeable to me the fact that EVERYWHERE I went there were many private security guards, policia nacional, and soldiers. I don't think I felt safer anywhere. However, a caveat. I did not go to strange places after dark. I was travelling with a Colombian friend, and I stayed at night in Poblado (well, except for one night to a well-known disco outside Poblado). I took normal precautions. No flashing wads of cash, kept my situational awareness, etc.
Go and have fun.

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jay1234 says on Feb 14, 2007, 18:25:

morph Hey man, are you trying to start a war? You know that comment is going to get 100 posts on each side declaring you as either a realist or a Colombia hater. Let's see what the posters have to say...jaja.

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goin_south says on Feb 14, 2007, 19:49:

I felt a little more safe walking around Parque Lleras.. than I did the last time, in ... Central Park? Si.

Paz y prosperidad para Colombia.

Why Not Colombia?..........Stay Tuned, for more.... utterly worthless, self-indulgent gobbets of nonsense.

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coffee beaner says on Feb 14, 2007, 20:53:

Central Parque is huge though, but yea I feel safer walking around lleras, parque de los pies descalsos and parque de los deseos put together then walk at night in central parque

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goin_south says on Feb 14, 2007, 21:12:

I was talkin ... Central Park, NYC. I assume you are also, coffeebeaner, but then for all I know there could be a hundred parks in Colombia referred to as Parque Central.

Paz y prosperidad para Colombia.

Why Not Colombia?..........Stay Tuned, for more.... utterly worthless, self-indulgent gobbets of nonsense.

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Ekdog says on Feb 14, 2007, 21:12:

Here you go http://www.nationmaster.com/graph/cri_mur_percap-crime-murders-per-capita

Crime Statistics Murders (per capita) by country

Totals Per capita
Definition Source Printable version
Bar Graph Map Correlations
Rank Countries Amount (top to bottom)
#1 Colombia: 0.617847 per 1,000 people
#2 South Africa: 0.496008 per 1,000 people
#3 Jamaica: 0.324196 per 1,000 people
#4 Venezuela: 0.316138 per 1,000 people
#5 Russia: 0.201534 per 1,000 people
#6 Mexico: 0.130213 per 1,000 people
#7 Estonia: 0.107277 per 1,000 people
#8 Latvia: 0.10393 per 1,000 people
#9 Lithuania: 0.102863 per 1,000 people
#10 Belarus: 0.0983495 per 1,000 people
#11 Ukraine: 0.094006 per 1,000 people
#12 Papua New Guinea: 0.0838593 per 1,000 people
#13 Kyrgyzstan: 0.0802565 per 1,000 people
#14 Thailand: 0.0800798 per 1,000 people
#15 Moldova: 0.0781145 per 1,000 people
#16 Zimbabwe: 0.0749938 per 1,000 people
#17 Seychelles: 0.0739025 per 1,000 people
#18 Zambia: 0.070769 per 1,000 people
#19 Costa Rica: 0.061006 per 1,000 people
#20 Poland: 0.0562789 per 1,000 people
#21 Georgia: 0.0511011 per 1,000 people
#22 Uruguay: 0.045082 per 1,000 people
#23 Bulgaria: 0.0445638 per 1,000 people
#24 United States: 0.042802 per 1,000 people
#25 Armenia: 0.0425746 per 1,000 people
#26 India: 0.0344083 per 1,000 people
#27 Yemen: 0.0336276 per 1,000 people
#28 Dominica: 0.0289733 per 1,000 people
#29 Azerbaijan: 0.0285642 per 1,000 people
#30 Finland: 0.0283362 per 1,000 people
#31 Slovakia: 0.0263303 per 1,000 people
#32 Romania: 0.0250784 per 1,000 people
#33 Portugal: 0.0233769 per 1,000 people
#34 Malaysia: 0.0230034 per 1,000 people
#35 Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of: 0.0229829 per 1,000 people
#36 Mauritius: 0.021121 per 1,000 people
#37 Hungary: 0.0204857 per 1,000 people
#38 Korea, South: 0.0196336 per 1,000 people
#39 Slovenia: 0.0179015 per 1,000 people
#40 France: 0.0173272 per 1,000 people
#41 Czech Republic: 0.0169905 per 1,000 people
#42 Iceland: 0.0168499 per 1,000 people
#43 Australia: 0.0150324 per 1,000 people
#44 Canada: 0.0149063 per 1,000 people
#45 Chile: 0.014705 per 1,000 people
#46 United Kingdom: 0.0140633 per 1,000 people
#47 Italy: 0.0128393 per 1,000 people
#48 Spain: 0.0122456 per 1,000 people
#49 Germany: 0.0116461 per 1,000 people
#50 Tunisia: 0.0112159 per 1,000 people
#51 Netherlands: 0.0111538 per 1,000 people
#52 New Zealand: 0.0111524 per 1,000 people
#53 Denmark: 0.0106775 per 1,000 people
#54 Norway: 0.0106684 per 1,000 people
#55 Ireland: 0.00946215 per 1,000 people
#56 Switzerland: 0.00921351 per 1,000 people
#57 Indonesia: 0.00910842 per 1,000 people
#58 Greece: 0.0075928 per 1,000 people
#59 Hong Kong: 0.00550804 per 1,000 people
#60 Japan: 0.00499933 per 1,000 people
#61 Saudi Arabia: 0.00397456 per 1,000 people
#62 Qatar: 0.00115868 per 1,000 people
Weighted average: 0.1 per 1,000 people

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Man Tequila says on Feb 14, 2007, 21:36:

Colombia had the most murders per capita, as the website says, from 1998-2000. Things have improved quite a lot since then. Which is not to say that there are not still way too many murders per capita in Colombia, or NYC.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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law254 says on Feb 14, 2007, 21:58:

It's hard to compare how dangerous two countries are. Colombia is a relatively civilized country that is safer to travel in than mexico because the police in colombia will protect you rather than kidnap you like in mexico, but there are dangerous places and safe places. Go to bogota and medellin and hang out in the tourist areas with a local and you'll be fine but have some local take you around especialy if it's your first time outside of the USA.

good luck.

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Robert Jorge says on Feb 14, 2007, 22:24:

If you want a relatively safe and fun place to visit, try Villavicencio. It is 2.5 hours south of Bogota. The people are generally very friendly, and I had a great experience as an "obvious gringo" when I was there. I learned Spanish pretty quick, but it was no problem when I knew nada. People get a kick out of you using sign language. There are lots of outdoor activities around Villavo, including swimming, hiking, horseback riding, etc. Like probably all of Colombia, Villavo is VERY child friendly. People love kids there. There are parks everywhere, and kids are running around everywhere, having a great time. Katt1 can vouch for my take on Villavo. If you want to go out without the boy at night, there are lots of things to do. A lot of people from Bogota actually go to Villavo to party. Dozens of nightclubs. There are festivos all of the time ... but again, I am sure that is typical for Colombia in general. Anyway, just an idea ... and I am biased - Villavo is the only place I spent any significant amount of time in while living in Colombia.

He who farts in church, sits in his own pew.

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kitkatinfl says on Feb 15, 2007, 04:35:

Safety I hadn't even considered south of Bogota, to be honest. Doesn't that take me closer to the worst areas? But your Villavo does sound nice.
I too had been thinking the northern coast for it's beauty, safety and because a beach can entertain a child endlessly. I had been looking at Cartegena, Providencia (safest?), and Taganga.... but my focus here is split. I want to be relatively safe, and to that end I've put in the comparison to NYC, where I feel quite comfortable. But I am also an avid traveler, and unfortunately am drawn to the less traveled road.
So I'd like a little adventure, to be able to show myself and the children at least some of their country before we leave, and to still feel safe.
You will not find me in the biggest tourist traps. I do not get off on crowds, large hotels or packed beaches. I do speak some spanish...but am thinking I wont be able to make out the inflections, slang and dialects anyway - although the Colombian children will know what is being said. It puts me in an odd situation but a truly exciting one as well ;-)

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kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) says on Feb 15, 2007, 04:48:

first how many kids?
age range?
for how long are you going to be with the kids?

Villavo is a good option plenty of wateparks, horseriding just as Robert said and yes it is safe. but I would think in Cartagena too, a hotel with swimming pool in case they don't want to go to the sea, but like kids you give them a bucket and spade and they will happy on the beach making sand castles, at night you can take them on the tourist train that goes around the town, take them to the acuarium. plenty to do there just take lots sunblock.

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JMCana says on Feb 15, 2007, 05:48:

adopting agency The adoption agencies I know here do a great job of helping with places to go and do things. Of course I do not know all adoption agencies.

Very important in your decision is the ages of the children.

You might want to make it possible for people to leave you private mail (change your settings).

Wishing you a good trip and a fun time in Colombia.

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manINred says on Feb 15, 2007, 10:33:

I had bad experiences in Cartagena with crooked cops, both times i went. It's really really nice though, and you should have fun.

And Rubito, can you prove that NYC is one of the 'safest' cities in the world (without feeling the urge to use profanity incessantly?)?

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elchantajista says on Feb 15, 2007, 10:47:

Rubito is right I think instead of New York, I think New Oleans or Washington DC might be the most dangerous cities in EE UU ,my back yard lol as far Colombia with MR KitKat i'll got Medellin!! but thats just me

anda de parranda en Bogota
"Vicente"

anda de parranda al Juanchito "Vicente"

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manINred says on Feb 15, 2007, 11:31:

Colombia, despite what many people think, is still dangerous. Many allow the urban violence to overshadow rural occurences. That's an interesting site you posted Rubito, thanks.

I still wouldn't go as far as to say that NY is one of the safest cities in the world. I guess it depends on what neighbourhoods are included in the city itself.

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bensark says on Feb 15, 2007, 13:07:

you will be safe, i was shocked how safe colombia is, like anywhere go to the wrong palces you will get robbed and stabbed up.

but if you have a brain cell you will be ok.

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utopiacowboy says on Feb 15, 2007, 21:52:

"but if you have a brain cell you will be ok." We're talking about the PBSH audience here, amoebas have more on the ball then we do.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

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manINred says on Feb 16, 2007, 08:05:

Too true mate.

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bensark says on Feb 16, 2007, 09:46:

brazil is number one by the way so that list is way off, more murders in brazil than iraq.

stop scaremongering, if you want to bring colombia down fck to another forum and do it.

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goin_south says on Feb 16, 2007, 11:00:

. ,

Why Not Colombia?..........Stay Tuned, for more.... utterly worthless, self-indulgent gobbets of nonsense.

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goin_south says on Feb 16, 2007, 11:00:

.

Why Not Colombia?..........Stay Tuned, for more.... utterly worthless, self-indulgent gobbets of nonsense.

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goin_south says on Feb 16, 2007, 11:06:

and not all parts of NYC were safe. I think I visited NYC 5 times between 1986 and 1992. Maybe things have changed. If it's so f**kg safe, why I have trouble talking the damn taxi guys to take me to Yankee Stadium. You know why; I know why. Cause, at least back then, it wasn't safe. Even the taxi man was scared. Maybe you were only 10 years old then, and NOT LIVING IN NYC.

I or you, don't necessarily need someone telling me what is or isn't safe. You can see and feel it; damn. And I still wouldn't buy your story that NEW YORK CITY IS SAFE. Those stats are likely skewed, as well. Look, I love NYC, but I ain't going to go walking Central Park after midnight.

Parque Lleras? after midnight? was either bustling, or dead, depending on the night. Safe either way.

Paz y prosperidad para Colombia.

Why Not Colombia?..........Stay Tuned, for more.... utterly worthless, self-indulgent gobbets of nonsense.

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manINred says on Feb 16, 2007, 11:14:

Get a bleedin' grip "stop scaremongering, if you want to bring colombia down fck to another forum and do it."

Oh for goodness sake. Facing reality is not scaremongering. What, is Colombia paradise free of problems??? Get a grip! You are sadly mistaken if you think that!

Yes, Colombia IS paradise in many ways, but to overlook the safety/danger aspect and not to take necessary precautions is sheer ignorance.

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cali373 says on Feb 16, 2007, 11:19:

NYC relative to it's size is actually very safe, especially Manhattan. I grew up there so I know what the difference is between back then and now. I would not think twice about walking thru central park at midnight, because I have. Does it have its crime of course but you are most likely safer in NYC than Bogota or Medellin.

Smile if you are a thinker!

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Robert Jorge says on Feb 16, 2007, 23:04:

Yes, New York has totally changed in the last 15 years. It is one of the safest big cities in the world.

Between 1986 and 1992??? That's 20 years ago. For most of those years, the most dangerous city in the US - using murder rate per capita as a barometer, was Gary, Indiana.

To the original poster. Villavicencio is not the south side of Bogota. It is a city 60+ miles away in a different department. Sure, you have to drive through bad areas on the way to Villavo, but it is a main artery, a major road with lots of traffic. Like all roads out of Bogota, it is a beautiful drive. Most of the drive parallels a river. You will go through tunnels and across aquaducts. There is a huge military presence on the road. Have fun wherever you decide to go.

He who farts in church, sits in his own pew.

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goin_south says on Feb 17, 2007, 01:14:

'safer'...... than whatever... may not be.... safe. period. I am not interested in 'relative values', when it comes to security.
But/And the concept is relative to the individual.

Robert...WTF? Isn't it about time to catch a plane?? :)

Paz y prosperidad para Colombia.

Why Not Colombia?..........Stay Tuned, for more.... utterly worthless, self-indulgent gobbets of nonsense.

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kitkatinfl says on Feb 17, 2007, 06:40:

Thanks! It is interesting how many ways ones choice of words can be interpreted and debated OTHER than what was intended ;-)

Regardless - I have a few months till I leave. I do not think I will take my son - but thank you all for the information. For the one who asked me how many children - it is yet undetermined. They do not match you until the last minute. It would be anywhere from 2 to 4 children, the oldest child being about 12 yo. Someone else referred to me as a 'MR' - unless that's an acronym for something else....I am female. Additionally - I had to pick somewhere as a comparison point - and imagine how boring this whole thread would be if we were talking about Boise, or Toledo, instead of NYC ;-) (Detroit IS bad, you're right - good reference city. Thanks)

I have a friend who travels there with some regularity who asked how many I am traveling with, and who thinks I'm crazy to be going alone. of course, he is an ex cop and thinks the way thru anything is with violence.

Anyway - since I haven't been there yet - I figure I will go alone and see for myself. Then decide if I want to take my son back with the kids to see their country again at a later date. I have no doubt it is breathtaking.

No one here has talked me out of Cartegna, Providencia or Taganga (sp?) so I will probably work around those ideas. If anyone has must see sites, favorite restaurants, stores, beaches, places to stay, whatever - other than the usual things I will find in travel guides on the net - please feel free to forward them.

Someone said to post my personal email...not sure where that is done but its the same name at gmail.

Thanks again - and wish me luck on my journey.

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goin_south says on Feb 17, 2007, 17:14:

I haven't heard them called 'pigs' for a long, long time; I was thinking you might be under the influence of Kat1, there.

Rubito, and some of the rest of us. Showing our age, old or otherwise. Now, what about the Bronx/Harlem, back in the 50's/60's?

Paz y prosperidad para Colombia.

Why Not Colombia?..........Stay Tuned, for more.... utterly worthless, self-indulgent gobbets of nonsense.

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goin_south says on Feb 17, 2007, 20:28:

I think I would have preferred Harlem,... in the Roarin' 20's!

Paz y prosperidad para Colombia.

Why Not Colombia?..........Stay Tuned, for more.... utterly worthless, self-indulgent gobbets of nonsense.

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