Retiring in Bogota

miamimike says on Jun 26, 2005, 21:47:

Have you been to Colombia before? You should make a exploratory journey to colombia for a few months and see if you like full timing it there.Only you can and should decide that as its Drastic change from Canada(or at least the part of Canada I know well). Go for yourself and judge for yourself! Good Luck!

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 26, 2005, 22:32:

I thought you could not live outside of Canada more than 6 months a year or else you would lose your Canada Pension? Other than that, why not? As Eminem says, "Just go crazy". Will you blend in? No, never. OTOH, who cares? If your Colombiana worries what the neighbors think, then get married. For a gringo, being married to a Colombiana is better than dying and going to heaven.

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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miamimike says on Jun 26, 2005, 22:44:

UC, Beleive it is the Health Care that has a time limit on how long Canadians can reside out of country.If he marries this Lady he can Colombian Residency and purchase a good Col. Policy at a reasonable price to cover him there.

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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Crazy4Cali says on Jun 26, 2005, 22:55:

Here's another vote to "go for it" I'd say check it out before you pull up all your roots, but 62 is hardly too old to fall in love. My ex-wife's mother got married (for the 3 or 4th time) at somewhere around 70.

From reading your story, the only fly in the ointment I can see is how you may be seen as coming between her and her mother. Momma may not like the competition for your novia's time and/or affection and your novia may get stressed trying to decide whether to be with you or her mother, or you may get tired of having to wait for her to have a moment away from mom.

Or not. Maybe you'll all get along splendidly. Either way, you won't know 'til you try. My only "fatherly advice" (from someone only old enough to be your son) would be to not get your hopes up too high until you've had a chance to see it up close. But, on the other hand, there are lots of other women in Colombia if that one doesn't happen to work out.

Either way, enjoy the adventure and best of luck with your princess!

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Dan says on Jun 27, 2005, 01:23:

Hell I'm only 26 and i'm thinking of doing the same thing. I'd LOVE to go live in Colombia with my wife. The only thing keeping me back is employment/income.

You'll have put a chapter in your life that some people can only dream of. Enjoy Colombia and all it has to offer.

Best wishes to you,
Dan

God Bless America!

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Miguel says on Jun 27, 2005, 02:19:

Here Here Go there for an exploratory visit now! Good luck.

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buzbeech says on Jun 27, 2005, 05:30:

I too want to retire to Colombia I am 56 years old and I am planning on retiring to Colombia when I turn 62. The other option I am thinking of is moving to Miami and from there it is only a 3 hour direct flight to Colombia. So, I say go for it. Good Luck!

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poco says on Jun 27, 2005, 06:15:

Going somewhere? For a gringo, being married to a Colombiana is better than dying and going to heaven.

Funny, the girl I’m with told me I live better in Colombia than the President. I asked which one,, Bush or Uribe? She said either. Only six months a year,, not married, but it is good for me to suffer in the U.S. for the other 6 months.

Humm, guess I have a real bummer on the way when I die,,, Only Heaven,, oh well, off to Pereria.

BTW: The women in Pereria are about the same as I’d see in Cali.

Oh: They may talk,, so what? The subject will be how come more people don’t come to Colombia AND STAY while enjoying the number one attraction,, women.

Plus, you should get different friends. Mine basically think about making more money, one in particular is 72, does not need to work but works for something to keep him occupied. Married, but I'd bet if single he'd be visiting. :}

"Violence is the first refuge of the incompetent" - Isaac Asimov

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dagui says on Jun 27, 2005, 06:30:

got the same plans livin in u.s. now but just finished payin on house in cali.lookin to retire in 4-5 years.at moment in bogota with familia and possibly to sell casa in cali and buy apt. in bogota ...lotsa construction goin on in all colombia and real nice ones!anyway be3en comin here for more or less 18 years and almost ready to retire early here cuz its possible here.dollars get more and la vida is mas tranquil.good luck in the venture.

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kernow62 says on Jun 27, 2005, 07:16:

Spend some time in Colombia, say 6 months to see if you can deal with it.

My buddy from the UK pulled up roots at age 68 to move to Brazil to be with a Brazilian lady he met in France. He has lived there now for 4 years and absolutely loves it.

You are never too old to fall in love, or at least marry, my great gran was married when she was 90 and still outlived the husband who was 17 years her junior.

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rjstuff says on Jun 27, 2005, 07:29:

Just do it Put on your nikes and shorts and Ts and go for it. One of the things about leaving Canda (or USA in my case) is that - You will Extend your life in two weays
1) Better health (your body doesn't have to fight extremes of temperatures - cold and hot.) Hopefully you are in a temerate place in colombia
2) Live Longer - because of being happy and healthy!
I hope you have a great and fulfilling love life and I fully endorse the idea of taking a suitcase or two and leaving the rest behind (that's what I plan to do shortly.)
I have a pension that is not affected by where I live, and I hope yours is the same way.
Pura Vida

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Colombiche says on Jun 27, 2005, 07:39:

Franko Congratulations for having the courage to break away from the routine! I think your decision to move down to Colombia to live your life and get away from you dying friends is very bold and typical of a person who has a zest for life.

If I roughly remember a line from a Garcia Marquez novel, that made a big impact on me:

"That man, although he moved and breathed, was one of the deadest people I have ever met. He was a dead man."

Eventhough I am in my 20's I think that what you are doing is wonderful. I am a Colombiana who lives in Canada. My father is in his 60's and suffers from a crippling paralizing illness that keeps getting worse with each passing day. There is nothing I would like to see more than him and my mom moving back to Colombia to enjoy my father's last days surrounded by their loved ones, away from the Toronto cold and the loneliness they experience everyday. I am working on moving them back home, but my father is very paranoid about the whole health care deal. I think I am going to suggest they live down in colombia for 6 months a year (the winter months) and come back to Canada to have my father see his neurologist and stock up on his meds.

In your case, you are even better off because you are a healthy man as far as I know. Congrats, and enjoy falling in love not only with your woman, but with Colombia, her sights, sounds and the warmth of her that will envelop you and fill you with joie de vivre.

lOVE,

Colombiche

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

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aztec says on Jun 27, 2005, 08:58:

Retiring to Bogota Sent you a private message. Check view inbox on top left of page.

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aztec says on Jun 27, 2005, 09:10:

Moving to Bogota Sent you a private message. Check view inbox on top left of page.

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adrimm says on Jun 27, 2005, 11:15:

CPP I believe that to maintain your CPP eligibility (once you hit 65), you must be at least a part-time resident at home.

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Colombiche says on Jun 27, 2005, 11:19:

Well Chucho I believe that if a gringo truly loves Colombia, has respect for our culture and is willing to go there and learn about our country and live respectfully, respecting the culture and the way of life then by all means they should be welcome.

Don't forget that the US and Canada have taken millions of people, often poor from all over the world (a couple of million Colombians at least) and given them them the opportunity to have the things that they could not have back home.

I for one, am truly grateful to Canada, I respect this country a lot. Eventhough I dream of being able to go back to my Colombia one day, I have to say Canada had no obligation to me, yet it took me like one of its own children and gave me everything that it gives each and everyone of its citizens.

It is fine to be patriotic, both Gringos and Colombians, but half the time I hear a lot of people in this forum spewing out crap like they suffer from anal-oral reversal syndrome. (This goes to the poster that I am responding to).

Think before you write.

No me den trago extranjero, que es caro y no sabe a bueno.... (Rafael Godoy)

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utopiacowboy says on Jun 27, 2005, 11:26:

It looks like the only thing which is affected by residence abroad is the Guaranteed Income Supplement and the Allowance of the Old Age Security - that terminates after 6 months abroad. Also the CPP payment is subject to a 25% non-resident tax if you live outside Canada unless that country has a tax treaty with Canada.

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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lpdiver says on Jun 28, 2005, 12:38:

this passage from your post sends alarm bells to me. Better step in and assert or your doomed man.

"I will not be able to live my fiance who shares an apartment with her mother. Her mother owns house and rents out the downstairs as an apartment. No, I cannot live there because the neighbors will "talk"."

Sounds like someone wants some money first....

T

"cook some rice!"

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 04:38:

Retiring in Bogota Thanks Crazy for your comments. I fully agree with you. I will never know unless I go aheard with my adventure. And, the fly in ointment may be my novia's mother. So far so good. We have only seen each other on web cam. I will be in Bogota August 15th and a week from that date we are all going to Cartegena. We will be staying at the Decamaron Hotel there. That will give me a good opportunity to bond with my novia's mother. The most important thing I feel is NOT to come between my novia and her mother. Bid no no lol. Good thing is that I am used to being on my own and that sharing her should be no problem. Again, thanks for the comments.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 04:47:

Re: Retiring to Bogota thanks Mike for your comments. I have tried vacationing in San Andres Island this last January. Perhaps not representative of Bogota. I will be on a 3 month visa initially and will likely know within that time frame whether or not I like Bogota. Honestly, having extra money in my pockets at the end of each month is a real incentive to me. Having a maid for $35 a week clean and cook for me is another advantage. Fresh fruit and vegetables all year round. I will be living on my own for at least a year until my divorce comes through. I understand that it costs 65 cents to take the bus all over Bogota. For the first time in my life I am going to give up driving. My novia has her father's old slant 6 Dodge in her garage that I may bring to life. Her father passed away and it has never been touched since.
Again, thanks for the comments

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 04:52:

Living in Colombia thanks for your comments Cowboy. I do plan on getting married as soon as my divorce comes through. In Canada, it will take a year. In the meantime I will have to live like a Bachelor. I have no problem with that especially after getting out my current situation. No house is big enough for my current wife and I lol. I wonder how I coulc have stayed in this marriage for so long. A marriage void of any passion. I do look forward to my new life in Bogota.

Again, thanks for the comments

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 05:00:

Living in Colombia Thanks Gringo for your comments. Your on the mark. I am going to change my lifestyle completely. First thing I am going to do is join a gym in Bogota. First week, laser eye surgery. Did you know the current laser technologie was developed in Colombia! From what I understand, you will pay $2,500 per eye in Canada. In Colombia $750 American for both eyes. What will life be with me not looking for my glasses? Funny you seem to think I may have another 20 years left in my old body. I certainly would not have wanted to live in this body in Canada for another 20 years. I am hopefull that my new lifestyle away from all the fast food restaurants in Canada will help towards that end.
Again, thanks G for your comments

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 05:07:

Living in Colombia Thanks Dan for your comment. Truth is I have always lived a "little" on the edge! I could go back to my Hippy Days and Harley Days. But, I really want to put that type of lifestyle behind me. I want a more laid back lifestyle nowadays. My novia is adament about me Not working in Bogota. She feels that because I am on a pension I should Not work at all. I get the feeling that she will pamper me somewhat in Bogota. I agree with you regarding employment. Some say there is 50% unemployed in Bogota. I have a hard imagining that! Especially when they do not have Unemployment Insurance or Welfare in that country. In our part of the world where everyone is out for themselves it would be a recipe for disaster.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 05:21:

Living in Colombia Hi Buz
I am interested in "why" you want to move to Bogota. What is there that attracts you? I have my girlfriend there so that is why I am attracted to Bogota at this time. Other than that, I would consider moving to Panama City in Panama to retire. They have great incentives there for retirees from North America.
thanks for your comments

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 05:27:

Living in Colombia Thanks Poco for the comments. To be honest I am not going to Bogota for the women. Although it is nice additional incentive. Certainly looking at beautiful women is a Good Thing! My main attraction is my novia. Having said that, I am interested in changing my current lifestyle here in Canada. I may even buy an apartment in Bogota. Apparently this is a common practice there. A good apartment runs around $18,000 US from what I have learned.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 05:28:

Living in Colombia Thanks for the comments Miguel I am certaintly going to try my best.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 05:34:

Living in Colombia Thanks for the comments Dagui. I would love to hear more about your current situation in Bogota. What do you do for a living? What is the cost of the apartments you have been looking at? Do you go through an agency to buy these apartments? Is food expensive in Bogota? How much is a cup of coffee? Do you tip in Bogota? Do you have a Special taxi driver to get you around there or do you have your own transportation? I have so many questions lol. I am very interested to learn alot about Bogota.
thanks again for your comments.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 05:44:

Living in Colombia Thanks very much for your encouragement. To tell you the truth I never did feel that I could "feel" or fall in love again. I have been in a 14 year marriage with absolutely No Passion (read between the lines lol). Was I searching for love....No! I could have been doing that here in Canada. It just happened one night in Cuba by accident. On a more serious note however, my novia has some very special qualities that I think would be very hard to find in a Canadina woman. Don't get me wrong about this, many Canadian woman are beautiful, full of life and dedicated to their men. However, some are very selfish, out for themselves and do not dress in a feminine fashion. You know the type, baggy sweat pants, tee shirt and running shoes! Many are too casual for my liking and "stuck on themselves". Sorry if I offended anyone here.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 05:52:

Living in Colombia Thanks rjstuff for your comments. No Nike for me. I don't want to stand out too much lol. Yes that is exactly what I am going to do. I plan to dismantle my compute and take my motherboard, hardrive etc with me. Leave the tower and monitor behind. Computers, I understand are expensive in Colombia. I have also purchased a great MP3 player and have stored about 1,500 song on it so far. I have much Spanish musica, Spanish Learning and of course North American music with some emphasis on Country. I am also taking a battery operated Spanish to English translator. I plan on buying clothes in Bogota. I am not going to take anything that will identify me as a foreigner. Let me know if you have any other recommendations.
Muchos Gracias,

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 06:00:

Living in Colombia Thanks Colmbiche for your comments. Certainly you are more mature and wise beyond your age. I feel bad for your situation. It is difficult for people with medical problems to distance themselves from their hospital. I have diabetese and am overweight. I hope that will all change when I go to Bogota. My weight is directly related to my diabetes (marginal) and if I lose that my diabetes will go away. I would like to know about your knowledge of Bogota. I wish your father more healthy days free of pain. I think your idea regarding him living in Colombia in the winter and surrounded by family is a good one. Not only is Canada cold in the winter sometimes the people can be a little cold. We are so independant and in hurry to go nowhere that we seldom take the time to be close to our friends.
thanks again for your comments

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 06:11:

Living in Colombia Thanks for the comments Grigo. I have no idea at the present where I am going to live in Bogota. I am trying to obtain a room or apartment. I think a room will be best until I get settled. My novia is off work for two weeks in August and will help me find an apartment. Do you know of any room for rent? My purpose is to try and stay low key. No billboard signs on me saying "I Am Canadian" or a foreigner lol. Your advice on my novia's family is right on the mark. I think it would be to my detrement to try and keep my novia all to myself. MMMmm although I like that idea lol. Including her mother in activities is very important. Trying to seperate the two would be my undoing. Besides, what is wrong with sharing my life with her and her mother? You are right about us having time to be together also. In addition, I will not try and come between her and her friends. I want to share my life with her, not take her from her family and friends.
Thanks again for your comments and encouragement

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 06:19:

Living in Colombia Yes I think are correct about the CPP thing. I will also be maintaining a residence in Victoria BC to help me towqards this end. I am also considering coming back to Canada every March to June of each year. I will want to prepare my taxes and I do auctions and selling on ebay.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 6, 2005, 06:28:

Living in Colombia lpdiver: No that is not the case. Her mother does not want my money and does not want to rent to me! I could send money but she still would Not rent to me lol. I would never be able to sleep overnight either and she will not sleep at my apartment overnight. It is their custom or at least her families'. Truth is my novia does not lack money. She has a very good and important Government job. Her mother's house is paid for. My novia also has an apartment that is paid for that she rents out. In August the entire family will be vacationing at the Decameron Hotel in Cartegana. I met my novia in Cuba while she was on vacation. No red flag here!

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 7, 2005, 20:07:

Retiring in Bogota Hello:
A few day ago someone contacted me with opportunities regarding the renting of an apartment, room, Spanish lessons and so on in Bogota. My email is not working very well lately and I lost this information. Please send me an email again regarding renting a room or apartment in Colombia.
Thanks,
Frank

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Janilli says on Jul 13, 2005, 18:09:

I quit my job in Germany and went to live with my husband in Colombia and love it. I have been offered jobs equal to the one in Germany - so even that has not been proven to be problematic. Go for it - it is a great country!

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Mr. Hollywood says on Jul 13, 2005, 19:23:

Franko Just read your thread and have a couple thoughts.

One, if you're diabetic, watch out when you get here. There are a LOT of diabetics in this country because, despite what everyone will say about the "healthy" food here, Colombians shovel on the sugar. Schools here actually feed kids candy because they believe that kids need more sugar to keep them going. So, anyway, just watch what you eat.

The flip side is that you can get some really good medical care for inexpensive prices. And you'll lose weight here, just from the altitude and walking around. It is extremely rare to see an obese Colombian.

The other question, that I never see anyone asking before they come here, is how do you feel about being confined? The difference between Colombia and anywhere else I've ever lived is that there are simply a lot more places I can't or shouldn't go. If it's important for you to be able to travel anywhere and everywhere on a whim, this is definately not Canada. The security situation is improved but definately not great in a lot of the country, or even certain (large) parts of Bogota.

Another thing, I keep seeing you say you're going to "keep a low profile" and "try not to stick out" etc. Give up on that. If you're a Canadian who doesn't speak Spanish you'll stick out anyway. So just be fine with that. Colombians in the big cities are very accustomed to seeing lots of foreigners.

good luck with your adventure.

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Lostgringo says on Jul 16, 2005, 05:21:

Retiring in Bogota Thanks Hollywood for your comments. I suppose you are correct about me trying to go in cognito in Bogota lol. You comments on sugar are also appreciated as I am a diabetic. I don't think I would feel confined living in Bogota as the city seems to have everything I will need. Getting set up in a room first and then an apartment will likely be my greatest challenge. I have no accommodation yet and I leave in 1 month. Also, getting my computer up and running will be a challenge.
Again, thanks for your comments.
Frank

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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rjstuff says on Jul 16, 2005, 08:21:

Laser surgery prices I hope you are right about $750 per eye - my fiancee wanted to go for it but she found out it was $2000 for two eyes in Barranquilla (she is also not a good candidate she found out so gave up on it) - so I don't think its cheap. Maybe Bogota is cheaper. $1000 an eye is approximate the cost here in USA I think. I have heard plastic surgeries are cheaper but don't know for sure. Good luck and have fun

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Lostgringo says on Jul 16, 2005, 15:34:

Retiring in Bogota Hi rjstuff:
Did I say $750 per eye? Sorry it is about $800 for both eyes...I have spoke with them personally regarding this. This is in Bogota.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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rjstuff says on Jul 17, 2005, 10:06:

That's a great price maybe I will contact you if I ever decide to do it - I could stay in Bogota and get it done so much cheaper than here and have money left over for Aguilas for everyone! jejeje

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adrimm says on Jul 17, 2005, 17:19:

Eye considerations First: At 62 you would have to check very carefully to ensure you don't have any cataracts. My 65 yo mother is in the middle of cataract surgery right now (one eye 2 weeks ago, other eye in a week).

Anyhow point is, they cannot do Laser correction with cataract surgery. They **can** correct your vision (and remove the cataract) by inserting a lens that has a prescription in it. Problem: much costlier than Laser Eye Surgery.

$~$2700 CAD for the cataract + correction in both eyes. This procedure is not much cheaper in Colombia. My mother was going to have it done there so we contacted 3 clinics for cost comparison with her clinic here and it was only a couple hundred bucks difference.

Second: If cataracts are not an issue for your vision correction, and you want Laser Treatment, do shop around. Depending on how extreme your correction is, there are places in Canada that charge $490 CAD per eye. One of my roomates had it done in the fall, no probs.

http://www.lasikmd.ca/cost-canadian-lasik.html

That said, I've heard fabulous things about the Colombian clinics, but I just though I'd comment on the cataract thing. Another thing to consider having done down there is dental & orthodontics (sp?)work, it is a definite bargain compared to most anywhere in north america and standards are very high.

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Lostgringo says on Jul 22, 2005, 13:12:

Retiring in Bogota Colombia 3 weeks and 4 days until I go to Bogota. My novia has been able to get me an apartment at the Salitre Plaza in Bogota. Actually her brother owns the apartment and is basically "giving" it to me for a small fee. Apparently, this Plaze has many stores in it and many Embassy persons stay there. Her brother thinks that it would be a good place for me as I will stand out too much as a "gringo". Anyone have any comments about this Plaza. All comments welcomed.
Thanks,
Loco Canadian

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Mr. Hollywood says on Jul 22, 2005, 14:50:

It's fine Salitre Plaza is fine. If anything, it's a bit boring, but you can easily get from there to many interesting places.

The comment about embassy folks staying there sounds like a stretch. Everyone I've ever met who works for the US or other embassies lives in the north.

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Lostgringo says on Jul 22, 2005, 22:21:

Retiring in Bogota Colombia thanks for the comment Mr. Hollywood. Boring is good! I like the idea of being tucked away in a place that is boring. In terms of people from the embassy staying there, perhaps you are correct. I am only going by what I have been told. I have been told that as a gringo living in Bogota I would not "stick out" living there. Is that correct. Will I be out of my "element" living in this place? That is what really concerns me. I do not want to be a target for anyone or easy prey.
Thanks,
Frank

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Jul 26, 2005, 15:00:

Retiring in Bogota 21 days to go and I will be in Bogota Colombia. I cannot wait to see my novia and my new apartment. My flight leaves at 8 am and arrives in Bogota at 8 pm. It is going to be a long day. I change planes in Houston Texas. I am sure my anxiety level will be peaking August 16th all the way there lol. I have wintered in Florida and Arizona but have never been out Canada for longer than 3 months. And, really, the US is just like Canada with only a few exceptions.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Aug 25, 2005, 08:44:

Bogota first impressions Well I arrived in Bogota about a week ago. I moved into my apartment yesterday. I did stay at doña flor´s for a week. It was ok there but I had no water for 4 out of the 7 days. A water main busted somewhere. I think Colombians are very hard workers but man it takes them a long time to do things lol.

First impressions, security, security, and more security. Many people live in constant fear. Yet their fear is not the kind that stops them from going about their regular activites. They are cautious. Every Colombian it seems has a cell phone. Perhaps this has something to do with the security factor. My opinion not necesarily the truth!

Iron bars on every window and small front yards with iron fencing with many having sharped and pointed ends to imale intruders. Armed guards patrolling steets all night. Shot guns, hand guns and even machine guns are choice of weapons.

Question? How many lanes in a three lane street in Colombia. Answer..4! lol. Man the cars are crazy here lol. They are the most aggessive drivers I have ever seen.

Question? When is a stop sign Not a stop sign? Answer .. when it is in Colombia. lol

Colombian men and woman dress very nice compared to Canadians. They seem very clean and take care of themselves. I also find that with the people I met they seemed always cold when I felt hot or just right.

Second day here I was walking with my Novia and she feel and broke her wrist. She is now in a cast. We spent many hours in the hostipal. She has very good insurance so were able transfer to better hospital. Even though she had the best insurance she had to pay to see the doctor and had to a small sum for her operation. At the other hospital she was in much pain and they just told her to take a slip with a number on it take a seat with about 50 other people.

I later learned that she is supposed to wear glasses. Are Colombian women vain. Well maybe not but mine is. She is now wearing glasses because I insisted so much. Funny, I had never seen her wear glasses before lol.

I was able to hook up with GIB who was kind enough to show me around Bogota. He is a wealth of information and very trustworthy. A very stand up kind of guy. I could listen to his stories for hours and hours. GIB gave me crash course on living in Bogota. I will be forever gratefull to him.

Two nights ago I took a taxi to Zona Rosa for cigars. I looked at all of the Cohib and Montecristos they had for sale. Eveyone was a fake lol. I settled for some cheap Colombian cigars which actually tasted quite good lol. I bought a few cervases and sat in their patio, drinking and smoking and watching the people go by. I finished my cigar and cervases and walked the streets. I ended up at a Casino and played cards there for a few hours. I felt safe all the time, but was cautious all the same. I think it is a state of mind that you have to get used to here.

I love the weather here and the flowers. I love the people, and the language and music. In retrospect I would perhaps tried harder to learn more Spanish. The more Spanish you know the easier life is here and you have more fun too.

CAUTION when walking in Bogota be careful. Many of the manhole covers are missing. Theives steal them lol. Wow, be very careful if you get drunk. Sidewalks are not level, they change from house to house and many are in disrepair. The infrastruture in Bogota is not good and that is an understatement lol. But through all of this, brand new luxurious apartment buildings are being built on a grand scale. People here, it seems to me, just go on about their daily activites without being concerned about this.


Well I guess that is all for now.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Crazy4Cali says on Aug 25, 2005, 09:28:

Bienvenidos a Latin America It's good to hear you're getting settled in, down there. Much of what you describe is not unique to Bogota, but to most of Latin America, from what I've read and seen.

Armed guards, iron bars, razor wire, missing manhole covers, life threatening sidewalks... In Costa Rica, the had street gutters you could hide a mo-ped in! It's all part of the "charm."

Enjoy your time in Bogota, but be sure to take advantage of your new "home base" to see more of Colombia! (and make sure your novia wears her glasses so she can see it, too!)

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Neonovo says on Aug 25, 2005, 12:14:

Franko... Great story. Certainly, reflect lots of life-experience on your part.

I'm planning to drop by the Orange Bar on the 15th of Sept, and catch Rubiazo's act, if you think of it stop by

Paz
Neonovo

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adrimm says on Aug 25, 2005, 18:23:

Nice to hear Glad to know that you are settling in. First-time impressions of Colombia posts are perhaps the golden part of this forum for me.

We spend alot of time trying to explain how we percieve different parts of Colombia to be like for those interested or who are going, but as in so much of life, it must be personally experienced to be understood.

Now get thee back to exploring! And keep up the updates (they're wonderful).

:) Adri

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utopiacowboy says on Aug 25, 2005, 22:00:

Interesting post, Frank. By all means, continue with your observations.

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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utopiacowboy says on Aug 25, 2005, 22:00:

Interesting post, Frank. By all means, continue with your observations.

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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Lostgringo says on Aug 27, 2005, 11:08:

Bogota is a Bitch Thanks for your comments.

I am looking out my 6th floor window and see a spectacular panoramic view of the city of Bogota and the mountains that surround her in the east. Traffic is brisk and starts very early in the morning. Today is Saturday. I can see people threading their way through traffic that stopped at the light. They are husling flowers candy, cell phone covers, fruit, and some are beggars.

The smog will soon chase away the clouds away with the help of the sun.

I look down into the condominiums below me and see their backyards with clothes line full. Maids busy washing clothes and cleaning. I cannot picture my novia washing clothes in Canada. Maids and Nannys are common place. My culture shock in Bogota may not match hers in Canada.

Bogota seems like a rose with thorns. She is beautiful in the day but she can seem like a bitch on PMS at night. I stay cose to home at the end of day. Better to walk before I run in Bogota. Yet, each day remains a mystery for me in this city of over 7 million people.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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utopiacowboy says on Aug 27, 2005, 19:30:

To tell you the truth, Frank, earlier I was a little concerned by your comments on PBH about how you would handle what you would encounter in Bogota. But, you seem to be handling it well and your attitude seems to be a good one. As I said, I hope you'll continue posting your observations.

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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Lostgringo says on Aug 29, 2005, 17:37:

This Sunday was a drab day in Bogota. Mostly clouds with a little sun peeking through them from time to time. I left my gym about noon and called a friend. We went for coffee and headed off to Zona Rosa. My friend does not like the area too much because it is full of Gringos. Hmmm he is a Gringo himself. Oh well, we were off in search of some yummy Cuban cigars and that was all he needed to forget about the Gringo thing in Zona Rosa.

We searched through a number of places but they were selling fakes. And some of these places were high end places. We finally found some wonderful Cubans in a mall in Zona Rosa. They were mixed in some fake cigars.

Cigars in hand we headed off to find a place to drink cervasas and smoke our cigars.

We ended up at a great bar that a patio. We settled down with some cervasas and fired these babies up. Man they were the best I have smoked for a long time. After a few beers we started talking to a blonde who was reading an American Pocket Novel.

I think her blonde hair was dyed and that she was wearing contact lenses. Turns out she is a doctor who has done some exstensive travelling (well that is what she said anyway).

I could see my macho Gringo friend melting in front of me. This chick was drop dead georgious no doubt about it. And to make matters worse/better she was getting drunker by the minute.

The three of us left the bar around 9pm. I was dropped off at my apartment and my Gringo friend went on with beautiful blonde into the night. I have not heard from my friend today but will call him tomorrow to find out how he made out with the doctor.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Aug 29, 2005, 17:38:

Cubans in Bogota This Sunday was a drab day in Bogota. Mostly clouds with a little sun peeking through them from time to time. I left my gym about noon and called a friend. We went for coffee and headed off to Zona Rosa. My friend does not like the area too much because it is full of Gringos. Hmmm he is a Gringo himself. Oh well, we were off in search of some yummy Cuban cigars and that was all he needed to forget about the Gringo thing in Zona Rosa.

We searched through a number of places but they were selling fakes. And some of these places were high end places. We finally found some wonderful Cubans in a mall in Zona Rosa. They were mixed in some fake cigars.

Cigars in hand we headed off to find a place to drink cervasas and smoke our cigars.

We ended up at a great bar that a patio. We settled down with some cervasas and fired these babies up. Man they were the best I have smoked for a long time. After a few beers we started talking to a blonde who was reading an American Pocket Novel.

I think her blonde hair was dyed and that she was wearing contact lenses. Turns out she is a doctor who has done some exstensive travelling (well that is what she said anyway).

I could see my macho Gringo friend melting in front of me. This chick was drop dead georgious no doubt about it. And to make matters worse/better she was getting drunker by the minute.

The three of us left the bar around 9pm. I was dropped off at my apartment and my Gringo friend went on with beautiful blonde into the night. I have not heard from my friend today but will call him tomorrow to find out how he made out with the doctor.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Rubiazo says on Aug 29, 2005, 22:04:

yeah franko come to my gig too. And bring some cigars, dammit! For that matter, PM me if you want to hook up before!

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ws244 says on Aug 30, 2005, 07:22:

girl [DELETED]. Some postings are like 10 cent dime store carousing novels. How about filling us in on your girfriends feelings about sitting at home while you are out running around with your friends chasing women at the bars. If she goes along with this something does not sound right, women have feelings [DELETED]. Nothing personal, but how old is she if you are 62, does she work, is she college educated, etc. etc. Maybe i misunderstood and you do not hsave a girlfriend there, if not then disregard.

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utopiacowboy says on Aug 30, 2005, 07:42:

There is nothing that says you have to read his "10 cent dime store carousing novel". Here's a guy who is completely new to Colombia and sharing his experiences and you've got to slam him for it based completely on your own speculations about his domestic situation. It was his friend who was interested in the doctor not him. As far as I can tell Frank's main interest was cigars.

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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Rubiazo says on Aug 30, 2005, 08:04:

just remember ws=trool. simple and easy formula!
Franko, great posts, keep it up!
I agree with you about the streets, they are a mess here. I´m glad they built bike paths cuz when I start riding a bike I wanna stay off those streets as much as possible!

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poco says on Aug 30, 2005, 08:05:

No kidding Here's a guy who is completely new to Colombia and sharing his experiences

Agreed, some can't relate to a perceptive a well written experience containing valuable information.

Personally I’ve not visited Bogotá and appreciate the comments.

"Violence is the first refuge of the incompetent" - Isaac Asimov

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ws244 says on Aug 30, 2005, 08:58:

ucoby Well i did not slamm him but rather only commented on his very own postings about his mentioning his girlfriend, mother, etc. I also posted for him to disregard if he did not have a girlfriend. Your own wife, before girlfriend would not put up with you helping your friends out looking for women at Arkies bar in Bandera while she sat at home with the kids, well maybe in Bandera but for sure not in Bogota. My post was to point out respect or lack there of for the girlfriend. The man is 62 years old and not 22, a feat in itself just to be 62 young people do not understand. With all due respect you are the attorney, read what i said, not in between what i did not say.

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utopiacowboy says on Aug 30, 2005, 09:27:

How do you know what my wife would or would not put up with? Personally I think it's between me and my wife.

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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ws244 says on Aug 30, 2005, 14:06:

ucby Yes, your business, however after reading a few of your posts on this website, but in particular your many many postings on the other revista site for over a year concerning yourself, your wife, kids, etc. one has a pretty general idea of your outlook, interactions with your wife, family, etc. unless they have just been like many of the feel good sound good postings one sees, however in your case this seems unlikely.

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utopiacowboy says on Aug 30, 2005, 15:22:

We'll never know, will we?

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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LDW says on Aug 30, 2005, 17:42:

Your Bogota Apartment??? franko_44.....Did you manage to pick up an apartment there for about $18,000 US? Does anybody know how much a decent one would cost in Armenia?

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ws244 says on Aug 30, 2005, 19:29:

ucboy Yes we do, you have too many posts out there including todays on revista which reinforces your other postings. If arkie blue is still around met him in 59 as a wrangler at lost valley ranch.

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Lostgringo says on Aug 30, 2005, 20:41:

retiring in bogota Thanks everyone for your comments.

Yes I have a girlfriend here in Bogota. She was at home nursing a broken wrist. She knows the gringo I was out with and wanted me to go with him. She trusts me and knows that I love cigars and her, of course. No she is not in her 20's or even 30's. I had and have no intension of trying to hit on any other woman. I am completly happy with my novia.

I wanted to smoke a nice Cuban cigar with my friend in a patio in the Zona Rosa. It just seemed like a great thing to do. Sure I enjoy looking at some of this Colombian hot stuff but that is as far as it goes.

My gringo friend is more like a son to me and I enjoyed watching him strut his stuff lol. I lived vicariously through him. lol.


I was home by 9 pm and called my novia right away. She was really pleased that I had a good time. I think she was glad to get a break as my tour guide and interpretor. It is one of the highlights I think of my life. Sitting in this outside patio puffing on my Monte Cristo #4 watching people walking by and listening to American Rock and Roll. Guards and military around us. It was surreal.

The only fly in the ointment was a woman who had her children (about 5 and 6 years old) begging for money. Uribe is supposed to be cleaning this up and getting these kids back intoto school. My gringo friend said it is happening but is slow. He noted that he did not feel sorry for the mother and said that she should be working like everyone else. Instead she uses her kids to get what she wants and they never get schooled.

I should mention that we did see a beautifull looking Harley Davidson sitting on the sidewalk in front of our patio. Hmmm I wonder how that works in Bogota? Well that's another story I guess.

Bye way, my novia is 48 years old and I mean old lol. She has a hard time keeping up to me. She is a good girl and has a good job in Bogota. Does not want to leave here because she is so close to her mother and her family not to mention that she has a few years to go before she retires.

It rained here most of day. It is about 9:30 PM here now and the streets are going to sleep. The rain has stopped. The city is in darkness except for the lights from houses and street lights below me. The view from my 6th floor window is out of this world. I can see a blanket of lights from the city covering the mountains in the East. Looks like a huge Christmas tree that has fallen down. I once had an apartment on the top of Burnaby Mountain which overlooked Vancouver, British Colombia. This view brings back wonderful memories.

I did very little today except to buy some groceries and top up my cell minutes at Salitre Plaza. I was able to buy a cell without opting for a plan.

I had a great time looking through the shops. I am always looking for something to sell on ebay lol. I have learned that you can pick up 100% leather shoes for a song..from $30 to $40 all around Bogota. Some of these shoes would cost you well over $200 dollars in Canada.

I also had great fun shopping for groceries. Bought lots of fruit. Meat was cheap too. Single Malt Scotch was out the roof!!! Beer was about 50 cents Canadian. I bought about 7 different brands to try them. One a day maybe. I loved looking at all the different fruits and vegetables, many that I have never seen before.

My novia told me to buy a fruit that I thought was disgusting looking. It looked like a white mushy mess with seeds all through it. We got it home and dug into it. Wow. Fantastic. It tasted like eating sweet and sour candy. We both ate it like two little kids. I am sorry I forget the name of this fruit. It was hard separating seed from the fruit but well worth it.

Tomorrow I have a maid coming to clean my apartment, wash "all" of my clothes and cook my lunch. Cost = $20,000.00 pesos or about $10
Canadian. "Crazy."

So far I have really enjoyed my experiences here in Bogota. I realize that I will have a few bumbs ahead of me, but hope that they are few and far between.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Aug 30, 2005, 20:52:

apartments You certaintly can find one for $18,000 but you may not like the area you will have to live in. The only way I think (please remember I am brand new here), is to actually visit the different areas and then decide. I do know that the apartment I am living here would cost about $400,000 in Victoria, BC. Canada. you may want to search this via google on this site. Other members are much more in the know regarding the cost of apartments.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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utopiacowboy says on Aug 30, 2005, 21:11:

Frank, you certainly did not owe us any explanation. BTW, it sounds like you're having an excellent time.

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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utopiacowboy says on Aug 30, 2005, 21:11:

Frank, you certainly did not owe us any explanation. BTW, it sounds like you're having an excellent time.

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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platano says on Aug 30, 2005, 21:25:

Frank, from the descriptive of the fruit you ate it is called... pitaya. It is delicious and is also famous for its laxative effect so don't overboard on it!
Here is a picture of a yellow pitaya.

Plátano, el bobo simplón
Oxigeno Verde ¡Libertad por Ingrid y los demás!

plátano

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Rubiazo says on Aug 30, 2005, 22:34:

The apartment I´m in would be no more than 35 million pesos on the market here. It is in Estrato 4, in a nice brick building with trimmed hedges all around, and 24 hour doormen. The disadvantages are that it´s in a really boring area, and its very far, almost at the end of calle 80. But the transmilenio gets you downtown in 45 minutes.
I have never been to Salitre but my gf tells me its a very nice area.

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Lucia Rojas says on Aug 30, 2005, 22:57:

Good thread franko, seems like you are enjoying yourself...keep up the posts...
I will see you at rubiazos gig...Enjoy the cigars....

ws244 seems a bit defensive, maybe she´s been hurt by some unfaithful guy...Its good that you can go out and enjoy yourself...dont pay attention to bitter comments.

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LDW says on Aug 31, 2005, 07:29:

Frank....that fruit????? Frank.....from the description you gave that fruit, it sounds like it might be guanabana. Then again, maybe it is pitaya as platano suggested above.

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Lucia Rojas says on Aug 31, 2005, 08:42:

It can also be a Guama or chirimoya... chirimoya has smaller pits, but not as small as pitaya...with pitaya, you eat the pits. Guama has only like 7 fruits in a pod and the pits are huge... you can actually make earrings withthem after you eat them...

I agree with LDW it might be a guanabana. Yummy!!!

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LDW says on Aug 31, 2005, 11:31:

Bogota versus Armenia....the costs?? I have mentioned in this (franko's) thread and in other forums in here that the city that really attracts me in Colombia is Armenia. I have travelled to Colombia on several occasions over the years, and find Armenia's climate to be a perfect balance between Bogota and Cali. I have always been rather suspicious about the asking prices for apartments or houses anywhere there, suspecting that an asking price for a "norteamericano" would be different than it would be for a Colombian. My general question is: are costs appreciably different in Armenia than they would be in Bogota? Franko mentioned that something decent could be had in Bogota for about $18,000 US. What about a decent apartment in a good area of Armenia.....(minimum 2 bedrooms, but preferably 3)? Real estate has one basic principal everywhere: sell it for what the traffic will bear.

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IMorcombe says on Aug 31, 2005, 12:10:

Cigars Franko_44 -- could you tell us again where you found the good cigars. My husband, my 12 year old and i will be in Bogota next week, staying at El Virrey, Viaggio apartaments - Calle 86 con 18 someone in this forum recommended that place highly, anyways, my husband would be thrilled if we could find good cigars.

Thanks,

Maria Ines

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Lucia Rojas says on Aug 31, 2005, 21:21:

Close to the cigars There is a good cigar shop close to where you will be staying. I dont remember the name but it is on 84 and between 12 and 13. very close by. I believe this is the same one franko was talking about... I´m not sure.

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Lostgringo says on Sep 4, 2005, 17:02:

Buying an apartment in bogota hmm I don´t recall saying you could buy a great apartment for $18,000? Most apartments that are decent (I think), are going to run you between $50,000 and $100.00 USD. Please remember I am very new here so don´t go by what I am saying 100%. Others here are more experienced in this area. I think that an apartment for $18,000 USD would be hard to find in estrada 4, 5 or 6. My opinion only!

Some new things I have discovered about Bogota.

1. Buses come in all colors!
2. You had better be in shape to take these buses
3. The driver of the bus does not wait for you to take a seat..it is peddle to the metal as soon as you get in the door lol.
4. Many Colombians shop at the corner store for their groceries.
5. Almost every apartment complex has a strip mall with many stores in it, most include a drug store.
6. 99% of Colombians get a manicure at least once a month lol (including men).
7. Many Colombian men where finger nail polish!!!!!!!
8. Colombian women are very feminine hmmmm.
9. Many restaurants have patios where you can smoke cigars etc.
10. Colombians are very friendly and seem to be very happy with their life in Bogota.
11. A Colombian who knows how to speak English moves up in status in Bogota.
12. Many Colombians have learned some English in School and are proud to speak English when they can.
13. Colombians love much milk with their coffee. I have found it very difficult to get them to put just a little milk in my coffee lol.





I got a haircut and manicure last week for about $6.50 Canadian. I received the manicure while getting my haircut. I was also given wonderful coffee while this was going on. I was offered a 1 hour massage for $15 Canadian. I passed on this.

I am in my 3rd week here and it seems to me that the more I stay here the more I like it. The atomosphere is much different here than in Canada. Colombians are very hard working.

There are literally thousands and thousands of taxies on the road all the time. The rates are very reasonable. In Canada there are few taxis in many cities as the rates are really high. And most are unionised. Not so in Bogota. Also, when I call for a taxi from my apartment they have my phone number and location computerized. How great is this?

Guanabana is the fruit I was talking about. I bought a juicer yesterday and I can´t wait to make some jugo mmmmm.


If I had one recommendation above all others to persons reading this thread it would be to try very hard to learn Spanish before you come here. I learned a bit of Spanish and if I had to do it over again I would have tried much harder. I am fortunate to have a novia who is very patient with me. Also, knowing how to count money and numbers is very important.


Please remember that the observations that I have made are my own. They are not fact! Just my own observations that is all.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Gator says on Sep 4, 2005, 18:18:

Franko_44 Very accurate post and a welcome view of a "new commer." You may be a little low on what an apartment costs( gringos have a higher expetatio that Colombians.) From what I have seen in my area, Los Rosalas above Av. 7a, you would be hard pressed to find anything under $350.000.000. We usually shop at a Carulla a couple of blocks away on Cr 5-a little more expensive but the convience is worth it-walking distence. To save some bucks we will usually hit an Exito or a Carrefor.

P.S. Just order a cafe tinto

"Brevior Sltare Cum Deformibus Mulieribus Est Vita!" .

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Rubiazo says on Sep 4, 2005, 18:34:

Man you guys have expensive tastes. Carulla is the most expensive grocery shopping in all of Colombia. My gf has literally never shopped there in her 27 years. I´m going tomorrow to get my sea salt.
There are plenty of apartments in Estrato 4 for well under $18000. That price for anything here in Ciudadela Colsubsidio would be way overpaying. Check out metrocuadrado.com - there are TONS of decent apts for under 40 million. Many are in est. 4. And remember those are ASKING prices, nobody actually pays that! In est 5 there are plenty in the 70-90 million range, not even near $50k. In estrato 6 prices go right through the roof though.

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Gator says on Sep 4, 2005, 18:52:

Next Time We... are in the Carulla I will jot down some prices and post.

"Brevior Sltare Cum Deformibus Mulieribus Est Vita!" .

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Hunter says on Sep 5, 2005, 07:45:

Franko_44 Glad you made it to Colombia at last.

Rubiazo, if you think Carulla is expensive, try Pomona.

Hunter

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Rubiazo says on Sep 5, 2005, 23:03:

No thanks My gf thinks that Exito is already way too expensive. She is forever going on about how you can go to Centro and get things SO much cheaper.
But Paloquemao is DEFINITELY worth it for the fruit alone. The best fruit in the city is to be found there. And at a fraction of what it goes for in supermarkets!
In NYC believe it or not to get good fruit I go all the way down to Chinatown and buy from the street vendors. They are the only people in the city who seem to be able to get their hands on reasonably fresh fruit!

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Lostgringo says on Sep 7, 2005, 05:18:

Barraquer Clinic I went to this clinic yesterday to have my eyes tested. As a foreignere I had to pay a little more for the test. I was able to have my tested by a doctor who could speak English. After having my eyes tested I met with Dr. Julio Barraquer ( son of the famous doctor who invented Lasik Surgery). So happens that Julio went to high school in Toronto, Ontario (Saint Michaels). We has a good chat about Canada. I have to go back to the Clinic next week for more tests. Dr. Barraquer will be doing the surger on my eyes if there are no problems as the result of the ongoing tests. They appear really thorogh at his clinic. Wow what a building this clinic is! Julio noted that his father worked up the the last day of his life in the clinic. He died at 85. The total cost will run me about $1,200. I could have gotten this operation in Canada for about the same price. However, I feel more comfortable about gettting it done at this clinic in Bogota. The Lasik that is done cheaper in Canada is new franchise that is advertised.

The clinic was full of people getting Lasik surgery. I think many foreigners come to Bogota for this purpose only. The clinic is very upscale and has the latest technologies.

My novia and I left the clinic and went to "The Bogota Beer Company" near the Canadian Consulate. We had Buffalo Wings and Mazzorala (sp)sticks. The cheese sticks were great but the Buffalo wings were pretty pathetic lol. The house draft beer was great. Total ran about $15 Canadian.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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adrimm says on Sep 7, 2005, 09:29:

We hear so much about Barraquer, but usually 2nd hand from posters who know someone who went. First-hand posts are great ti have.

You are doing this board a great service with your posts, Thanks for continuing to share your first-time-in Bogota experiences with us.

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Lostgringo says on Sep 7, 2005, 18:50:

thanks adrimm for your comment I went today to the dentist to see about getting some new dentures and my teeth cleaned. I swear I was given the gringo price. Why? Because while in the dentist office my girlfriend had a tooth of hers fixed. It was a front tooth that had a chip out of it. 20 minutes later her tooth was perfect again. Cost $20 Canadian. My cost for partial dentures for upper and lower 1000 mil. About $500 Canadian. I could get these dentures in Canada for around $1.200. Minus 50% deductabl = $600 add $100 I have to pay initially. Total cost in Canada would be around $700. My savings are only about $200. So, why get it done here in Bogota. Hmmm. Well I have total confidence in the dentist and was certainly amazed at the work she did on my novia's tooth in 20 minutes. Still $500 seems like a fair price from where I sit as I would not be surprised if the price in Canada is around $1,500 and taxes on top of it.

I also have good feedback from Miama Mike who knows this person very well and knows about her work first hand. I am also getting a cleaning thrown in with this price. And, who knows the cost to have my partials replaced in Canada may have gone up in the last 6 years.

I walked briskly to the gym today around 9:30 am. Man I can't get over the exhaust fumes from the buses etc. I am going to have to leave around 7 am to acutally get any health benefit out of my walk. I see people all the time holding scarfs etc over their mouths to protect them from the fumes. This is one aspect of Bogota that I do not like very much.

Stopped by a grocery store on the way home and bought all kinds of fruit. Bought some real corn there too lol. Frozen sweet corn on the cop. I can't wait to see if my novia likes. The corn they sell in Bogato is tough to eat. We have that kind of corn in Canada too but we don't eat it lol.

I bought some great pork chops about a dollar each. Wow. I can't wait to eat these puppies. lol.

Looked at some fillet mllieon (sp) and almost fainted. I think they wanted about $50 Canadian for about 4 very very small steaks. I chuckled to myself and put them back.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Sep 10, 2005, 14:20:

Sewage in Bogota On my way to the gym today I almost passed out with the smell of human waste. It seems like the sewers here in Bogota are different from what I have ever seen. Looks like some of the sewer system is underground but most is out in the open? It is really weird! Man what a stench when you are downwind. I would describe these as some sort of canal. I have seen trucks in them also being loaded with crap (now there is job for you lol). It is enough to
make you gag.
On the postive side, today is a beautiful sunny day with few clouds. I went out to the Irish Pub last night in Zona Rosa. There were originally 7 of us, but Peter's wife left with their son for something to eat. Peter, I and Gringo in Bogota stayed behind. I with my novia and GIB with his.
Found out his novia is "really" a doctor. Man so is so beautifull!
Peter and I sat back and smoked Colombian cigars. I have tried my best to find a reliable place to buy legitimate Cuban cigars with no success. The last place I found any authentic cigars has closed.
Looks like I will have to make a trip to Cuba soon. My novia and I left early as she is still suffering from her broken wrist.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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Lostgringo says on Sep 11, 2005, 06:50:

Rubiazo sings I went out last night to the south of Bogota to hear Rubiazo sing. I enjoyed the singing very much but wish the sound was louder and better accoustics as I could hardly here hear him sing. What I did hear was fantistic. The crowd loved him. And, he is great on the keyboard.

I found it very interesting that colombians are not afraid to show their love for each other. Kissing in a bar is totally accepted. Man we are so stiff in Canada that if someone does this we think they are sick lol. I love the way they are intimate with each other and they do not care who watches. People were friendly there and having a good time. I got to talking with a few Colombians who were kind of surprised that a Gringo would be in their midsts. Hmmm, there were two Gringos there that night. I did not stay long and left on Rub's 3rd set. Rub is a very likeable guy and is really into his music. He sings with passion. After leaving the bar the I bought at foot long hot dog from a vendor. Man this thing was loaded. Had other meat in with it too, some cheese and "other stuff" lol. I caught a taxi and went home. In the morning I talked to my novia and told her about my experience. She is very happy that I love Colombia and that I get to know her culture. I saw many bars in the area where there was alot of dancing. I did not venture in. Just walked down a few streets to take in night scene. I also noticed that there were very few police or military there. Another thing I noticed here and maybe I am wrong but I have not seen a female taxi driver?

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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quindioman says on Sep 11, 2005, 06:55:

franko that is one of the beautiful things about Colombia....I would always sit outside whatever house I'd be dwelling and watch the young couples go out hand in hand in the early evening.....very romantic and something that is rarely seen in the western world

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Lostgringo says on Sep 14, 2005, 11:14:

gym in bogota I just wanted to say a little more about the gym that I go to. It is called Body Tech. They have them all over Bogota. Trainers come with the membership. All the trainer are very knowledgeable and are pumped! They all wear orange uniforms. The gym is constantly being washed by cleaners. No dust at all on any machine. The floors are mostly tile and look beautiful as they are contstantly being mopped. Today I saw a cleaner with a mop standing on the tread mill machine mopping the tread! She had the machine running and was mopping it. They wipe down all the machines constantly so that there is not even a sweat mark! When the spinning class is finished they remove all the bicylcles and wash down the floor and polish it. Never have I seen such cleaniness in Canada or the US in a gym. I remember many times going to a locker room and smelling old sweat etc., coming out of the carpet. Not here! They use beautiful tile throught the gym. I bought a coffee, scrambled eggs and a water there yesterday for $1.50 Canadian.

I would not have believed how classy this gym was even if someone had told me before hand. I am paying $120 for 3 months and as mentioned before the trainer comes free.

Did I mention how beautiful some of the women are there! Mmmmm eye candy for sure. I would love to take my camera there and take some pics but I don't think it would go over lol.

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!

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miamimike says on Sep 14, 2005, 17:45:

Frank-That's what those "Cell Phone Cameras are for !! All those spur of the moment shots!(like the ones going up the stairs in a Mini-Skirt!) Ha Ha!Then you could post 'em here ! Best!HaHa

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." -- Feb. 28, 2008 --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C.

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Lostgringo says on Sep 16, 2005, 10:30:

Pistol Packing Momma Just wanted to mention that my trainer at the gym keeps introducing me women and men who speak a little English. This mornig he introduced be to a very well endowed and beautiful woman who was sitting at the snack bar. She seemed to be about 25 years old. I sat with her for awhile and we talked about the USA and Canada. It seems that most Colombians are enamoured with the USA. I can understand it though because there is alot of TV from the states here.

Anyway, we got on the topic of violence and she said she was not scared in Colombia. She went on to point out that she had a gun. I chuckled to myself and said where is it? She immediately pulled up her pant leg and showed her gun that was strapped to her leg. She was pretty proud of it lol.

She found it hard to believe that people in Canada do not carry around guns and that if she were caught with a gun without a permit (try and get one lol), she would immediately get 6 months jail. She asked me how many times I had seen people steal from others by way of violence in Canada. I told her that I had never seen it. She looked at me funny. I don't think she believed me.
Yep, she is a pistol packing Momma. I will be careful what I say to her next time we meet lol. By the way, she did show me a permit. She went on to say that she had her car hijacked by 6 men about 10 pm at night. This was the main reason for her getting a gun permit. I have a feeling that there are many Colombians walking around with guns. Maybe I am wrong?

Your Home Away from Home:http://www.welovebogota.com http://www.apartmentinbogota.com "Luxury apartment and rooms Cheap" Only 2 blocks from the American Embassy!