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Olafgypsy - What do I tell my parents?

[This post by Olafgypsy probably deserves its own thread, it is from the safety guide] ~ Adrimm

I'm considering visiting my boyfriend in January. He is native Colombian, and we would stay in Bogota with his parents and have no plans to leave the city. The only problem is that my parents are dead set against the idea of my traveling to this country at all. Are they right to be concerned? Is there anything I can tell them to comfort them? Please help!

By adrimm on Nov 8, 2005, 15:44 in Friendly Talkzone.

adrimm (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2005, 15:47:

You can show them stuff online about Bogota Like this trip journal (with lots of photos of Bogota) by Kernow:

www.gringoincolombia.com

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rca_rodrigo says on Nov 8, 2005, 16:20:

a. b. a. unless you're 18 years old you should not come
b. If you're older thatn 18 years you are free ... at least thats the idea that media sell us about USA .. isnt it ?

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Monacomatt says on Nov 8, 2005, 17:38:

safety I was in a similar situation when i went, noone thought it was a great idea, but i was there for 2 months and can say that i never had a problem, of course a lot of the time i was with my friends which made it easier and they told me the saftey tips to follow but i can say that even when wanering solo aroung this great city that i had the best time of my life... (and trust me i stood out as a gringo). the people were fantastic and friendly, and if your boyfriends family are anything like the Colombians i met, then youll be treated like a family member and will not have a problem but will be shown the time of your life!... p.s if you leave the city, go to Catedtral de sal.. spectacular.. and many other places. Villa de Lleyva, Cartagena... too many to mention

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olafgypsy says on Nov 8, 2005, 17:41:

Thanks! Wow, Bogota looks beautiful. makes me really excited about the possibility of visiting there -- I hope I can work it out. Of course the decision to travel there is ultimately my own, but my parents are generally sensible people, which is why I respect their opinion and must pay some attention to their concerns.

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kernow62 says on Nov 8, 2005, 19:19:

Since your boyfriend and his family will be your guides I wouldn't be concerned. In fact most Colombians seem to be very cautious about the safety of their guests. They know the city best and will take great care of you.

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jcspider says on Nov 10, 2005, 21:24:

Just be carefull I went to Medellin with my cousin and it was pretty cool the only thing that they told me was not to flash your money my biggets mistake i pulled out a wad of cash and thats a big no no, the other thing one night i went to a night club and got so drunk that i forgot to how to speak spanish and i did all night i was speaking in english all night with my cousin.
those should be your only concerns.

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