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Spaniards and Colombians

A short while ago, I mentioned on another thread my shock at the rude and superior way I'd seen Spanish airport staff treat Colombian travellers. A rudeness as breathtakingly pointless as it was arrogant. If I hadn't been there to witness it, I wouldn't have believed it. It was horrible and the experience left me with a hearty regard for Simon Bolivar, I can tell you!

However, I'm often left wondering if this incident was an anomaly and not typical of Spanish attitudes towards Colombians. Or was it, regrettably, all too indicative of the relations between the two peoples? I quizzed my wife on the issue and she replied (semi-seriously): 'No they don't like us. They're jealous because we're so much better looking than them'. An interesting point, but one open to some debate- personally I find the women of Andalusia to be very easy on the eye- So, for a fuller thesis on Ibero-Colombian relations, I'm reaching out to PBH!

In your opinion, do the Spanish and Colombians generally enjoy good relations, or can things between them be described as uneasy, at best? What experiences or anecdotes do you yourselves have about the Colombians and their dealings with the former colonial power?

By kalder on Mar 15, 2007, 13:13 in Friendly Talkzone. AddThis Social Bookmark Button


Simon says on Mar 15, 2007, 13:25:

I think your wife was kidding when she said that. The relations are pretty good. This very week the king and queen of Spain are coming to Colombia for the summit of the Spanish language academy. They'll be visting Cartagena and Medellin. On Gabriel Garcia Marquez's 80th birthday, noted Spanish personalites including the vice prime minister read aloud excerpts from his masterpiece 'One Hundred Years of Solitude'. So that shows they admire our culture. There is some discrimination that Colombians face in Spain, but it's not any different than what they have to face elsewhere. But yeah, we did kick their asses in early 1800's.

"Tu vas a ver, llegaras a mi edad y veras que Colombia seguira igual"-----Simon Sr.

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Mononoke28 says on Mar 15, 2007, 13:57:

I don't know... ... I've gotten along well with a lot of Spaniards I've met. One of my ex-boyfriends was from Spain and I got along with his family wonderfully.
What I did see when I went to Colombia is that a lot of Colombians have gone to Spain to deal drugs and prostitution. I was surprised at the amounts of girls who came back home for Christmas to get their boobs done or lipos done with narco money or prostitution money. These girls were mainly from el Valle, Tuluá and Cali to be exact. So I'm sure airport staff in Spain are very aware of what a lot of these passengers are going to Spain for.

Diana

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COLOMBO24 says on Mar 15, 2007, 14:20:

Well... In Colombia people are nice by nature. They say "What can I do for you" "How can I help you" "Have a nice day", etc..
People in Spain are more straight and hard (some people interpret that as rude), so many times we are shocked when things like that happen.
Another issue is that the authorities are right in being extra exceptical with Colombian flights, I am Colombian too, but we have to accept it, so I never get offended and colaborate with authorities.

As you can see, there is a little bit of both: Their arrogance and our probabilities of having illegal substances on our plane.

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Colombiano_81 says on Mar 15, 2007, 15:37:

Yes the spaniards are harder and more direct in their dealings with people but I find that they know that this is a soft spot for Latin Americans. They oversue it with us causing us to get somewhat defensive thus giving them the right to say we are the ones with the "complejo" when really in alot of cases they are the ones instigating it to get that reaction from us so that they can label us savages or what not. I used to think this was maybe a product of my imagination but it´s been proven to me in several occasions that this is done on purpose by the spaniards to convey superiority over us.

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Man Tequila says on Mar 15, 2007, 16:01:

I'm certainly not Spanish or Colombian.

I have been to Barcelona a couple times in my youth. At the hostels, I met quite a few Colombian travellers. Most complained that they were usually treated in a haughty and condescending manner. One or two bragged that they "didn't pass for Colombian", and were not treated in this way.

I've seen it happen, and I do think the Spanish have a bit of a "superiority complex". On the other hand, when I spoke Latin-American Spanish I was also treated more haughtily than when I spoke English. I had the impression that the Colombians were singled out.

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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raulinho says on Mar 15, 2007, 16:27:

Spanish and Colombians Who cares? Look I am half Spanish and most of Spanish people call South Americans, (but not Brazilians who are generally considered as different) "sudacas" which is definitely a pejorative term. The majority of South Americans in Spain are from Ecuador and they especially do not have a good reputation for many reasons, but who cares what Spanish people think? Spanish people tend to be conservative in their views and consider their country and food superior and in fact the only country that comes close for them is Australia. Spanish girls are in general, especially in Sevilla, a lot better looking as for me Colombian girls look too like Mexicans ..

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manINred says on Mar 15, 2007, 17:37:

Which Spaniards are you talking about? Spain is such a regionally divided society that many regions of Spain have no association with other regions at all, so I don't doubt that association with other Spanish speaking peoples is minimal to nil. The people from Pais Vasco are proud, look down upon other Spaniards (in general) and the Catalans won't say they're from Spain, etc...

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poco says on Mar 15, 2007, 18:07:

Colombians are LOVED in Spain There are a few lucky Colombians that have visas to allow them to work in Spain and return to this small Colombian town during holidays.

I’ve read about this attitude and asked if Spaniards liked Colombians. To my amazement the answer was “YES”, not just yes but the Spaniards LOVED Colombians.

Spain is MUCH preferred to the United States as a destination. Easy to understand why, the language is the same except Colombians think the Spaniards talk with a “LISP”.

I heard of more problems and said I thought Spaniards LOVED COLOMBIANS and she said YES. Frustrated I said there was a lot of news about problems and she was in conflict with the current events.
Then she made this statement that has stayed in my mind.
Those people are NOT employers, who cares what they think.
These working Colombians ARE NOT underpaid. They work hard and long hours and GET PAID a good rate for their work. Work more, get paid more. Simple.

One example was an EXPERIENCED BAKER who was working in Spain making $3000 U.S. dollars a month. I’d guess he would work the same hours in Colombia and make $300 dollars a month. He had built a nice house. I’m sure he will return with plenty of money to open a business or retire.

Without prompting she made these statements:
The employee in Spain takes a nice long break and sits on his ass. The Colombian works.

The employee in Spain is asked to work past the standard hours and REFUSES to work although EXTRA pay is offered. The Colombian works.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

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jaramillo says on Mar 15, 2007, 19:05:

I'm from Medellin, as paisa as any. I just spent a year in Salamanca, on sabbatical at the university. Granted, this is a well educated medium. At any rate, I was treated with great courtesy, hospitality and generosity. My wife is American but I made it well known that I was Colombian. I'll never deny my country. Spaniards are blunt (or latin americans are too sensitive?). They don't mince words, with each other or with foreigners. I saw also several Colombian students, enjoying their scholarships. I saw no evidence of discrimination.

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Simon says on Mar 15, 2007, 19:52:

"Spanish girls are in general, especially in Sevilla, a lot better looking as for me Colombian girls look too like Mexicans .."

Raulinho,

Dude, Colombian girls come in all colors, whereas Spanish girls don't have a lot of variety in that sense. Mexican girls look different than Colombians. Get your eyes checked!

"Tu vas a ver, llegaras a mi edad y veras que Colombia seguira igual"-----Simon Sr.

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miamimike says on Mar 15, 2007, 21:12:

I think it has to with a lot of Overstays and out of status Colombians. Friends of mine in Madrid tell me this is one reason some of the Animosity. As far as the Mexican women, go to Guadalajara, Mexico and you will find a fair share of the Women with blue or green eyes, light brown hair, fairly pale skin, not anything at all like you expect Mexican women to look like; there, some of these women resemble Europeans,,,

"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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jsmithjoe says on Mar 15, 2007, 22:16:

Give Me A break!!!! Spanish women are better looking than Colombians? Laughable – Spain is an average place for women. I lived there for 8 months – and have seen the entire country. Sevilla and the Coastal Del Sol are the best parts for women. I must confess that I have only spent a month in Colombia – but Medellin and Cali blew Spain out of the water. Literally, laughable. Blew it out of the water – Now I concede that I am attracted to Latin women – but Spain, even for European standards it is not one of the best. If you think women in Spain are hot I suggest more trips outside of Western Europe. Try – Russia, Poland, Romania, Coastal Southern California, Miami, Buenos Aires, Cali, or Medellin, Syria, and Israel (The last two Most underrated places for women).

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manINred says on Mar 15, 2007, 22:28:

every debate turns into "who has the hotter women?" haha

I think Colombia. But let's not put down sunny Spain's fine women.

ANd this comment will enrage a few people: Many people don't know the difference between Mexico and Colombia. I told my roommate i was going to Colombia, and he asked me which part of Mexico it was in hahahahahhahahahhahahahahhahahahahhahahahahhahahahhahahahhaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! God bless him though, he's a good guy!

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southern151 says on Mar 15, 2007, 22:33:

When I said to people that I was going to Colombia... They all had a blank look. Some asked, "Do you mean Canada?" Others would reply with, "South America? You sure know how to find an unusual taste in vacations!"

Little do they know, the place is beautiful!...and yes, so are the women! Don't know about Spain but Colombia sure seems to know how to grow 'em!

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thur says on Mar 16, 2007, 01:46:

The focus is airport staff. And not "Spaniards". Airport staff is rude where ever you go and especially to Colombians (and travellers coming from Colombia). It's the reputation of the country which is synonymous with drugs, illegal immigrants, poverty, war, etc. That's what airport staff have learned, Colombia is a high risk country for drugs, illegal immigrants, etc.
The same stories went around about German officials (when Lufthansa still served Bogotá), Dutch officials, UK officials, US officials, the French, etc.
Greetings,

~ UPDATE ~
www.pbase.com/thur

- www.pbase.com/thur

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 16, 2007, 02:42:

I think the people from the north of Spain are a bit rude, and cold, but i have been a lot in the south part of Spain and I find the people there nice and pleasant. about the airport well that will happens in all airports as thurs explained we don't have a good reputation.

about the women well depend what part of spain you go, in andalucia they look like a lot like us. Many people here think I am from Spain. and in my my British passport instead of Colombia, it said place of birth Cordoba, so they think, Cordoba Spain.

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raulinho says on Mar 16, 2007, 02:45:

spaniards Ok I see I have caused some offence about Colombian women. I have only been to Bogota but on 4 different occasions and I was very disappointed as there was only one stunner. The thing about Colombia is that gringos get a false sense of how attractive they are and how friendly the women are...hint... it might just have something to do with the greenback !! Obviously if women are hitting on you you find them more attractive, just like when you read something that somebody else has written that you agree with you think yes that person is intelligent. What I will definitely say the people are very friendly and courteous and I will visit again. Maybe I should have gone to Medellin or Cali ..next time!

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elmodefoque says on Mar 16, 2007, 05:27:

"One example was an EXPERIENCED BAKER who was working in Spain making $3000 U.S. dollars a month" poco

“Only $3000 for an experience banker in Spain”
CHIT! I clean toilets in NYC and make way more than that. An experience banker in NYC is pulling more than 10 thousand a month. Spain is another fokin third world country and I have cousins making 4 millones and more a month working in Colombia, no way in hell they’re gonna go to Spain.
A Colombian has no business in Spain; the only ones that don’t mind being humiliated by those smelly assholes are the pretentious colombian pricks who don’t mind the stench. Many of these Colombians end up in Europe for one reason and one reason only; they could not get into USA.

ASK NOT WHAT THE PUSSY CAN DO FOR YOU, BUT WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THAT PUSSY!!!!!!!!!! CAT LOVER

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elmodefoque says on Mar 16, 2007, 05:38:

wait, now that i think about Wait, now that I think about it, I pay almost 3 thousand a month in taxes alone. When you file single with no dependents, Uncle Sam sticks his long bony middle finger up your ass real deeep and he doesn’t pull it out right away, he keeps going in and out for about 45 minutes or until you crap

ASK NOT WHAT THE PUSSY CAN DO FOR YOU, BUT WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THAT PUSSY!!!!!!!!!! CAT LOVER

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 16, 2007, 06:08:

Elmo I rather live in Spain than in the USA. specially in Sevilla or Ronda. beautiful cities.

and those Spanish boys are gorgeous too ;))

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elmodefoque says on Mar 16, 2007, 06:16:

Good for you mi amor
Good for you mi amor

ASK NOT WHAT THE PUSSY CAN DO FOR YOU, BUT WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THAT PUSSY!!!!!!!!!! CAT LOVER

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 16, 2007, 06:28:

thanks elmo I knew you would understand :)))

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aztec says on Mar 16, 2007, 06:32:

kat1 "I rather live in Spain than in the USA. specially in Sevilla or Ronda. beautiful cities.

and those Spanish boys are gorgeous too ;))"

My wife and I were there last year. Agree with you that it is an exciting area. Seems like a paradise for young professionals with money.

Things are alive when the sun goes down until about 12:00. Never seen a place start emptying out so fast. Week ends may be more active.

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colombianman says on Mar 16, 2007, 07:29:

Beautiful women are everywhere I think that most of the people that say that the most beautiful women come from such country are really forgetting that there is beauty everywhere, they are judging beauty based on what TV shows us.

I've been to several countries and I'd say that in each of them I was amazed at some beatiful girls. Israel, Egypt and South Africa are among the countries I've visited and let me tell you people, there were quite a lot that took my breath away. Some Arabic girls have the most beautiful eyes that contrast with a tanned skin. Some Israeli women are a blend between Europe and Middle East that will enchant you and so on.

I'm Colombian and I love my women, but I would not lose a chance to have an affair with a woman from a different country or culture...en la variedad esta el placer

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gringolondinense says on Mar 16, 2007, 08:01:

I love Spain... fish and chip shops, Pubs, expat shops and Germans hogging all the sun loungers, Germans and British enacting World War III, clubbers tripping out all night then waking up at 6pm to go out and do the same again. Fantastic.

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raulinho says on Mar 16, 2007, 08:03:

Elmo: poco said baker not Banker!, though I agree $3000 is not a lot of money but poco you have got to be joking if you think people in Spain don't work hard I was born there and have worked there for 2 years (in Madrid). If you don't get on the M30 circular before 0700 you are screwed and forgot siestas, and evening rush hour is up to 2000. The difference is, people in Spain think it is beneath themselves to work in certain jobs, just like in US and in UK and what I noticed is that Colombians are pretty entrepreneurial and generally will work at anything, though union regulations in Colombia are nonexistent. The South African boss of Aguila beer in Bogota treats his workers like dirt (they get no meal break frequently) and can get away with it. People leave Colombia for economic reasons because they have to, not because they want to, in the majority of cases and the countries they settle in may be quite hostile to them but they have something to prove and those who complain about discrimination and do nothing will get nowhere but those who are hardworking and hopefully honest will, though the latter is not a necessity in Spain (being honest). The former mayor of Marbella is in jail on that old favourite -illegal land deals (which is the same way the ex-chairman of Real Madrid (Sanz) made his money).

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elmodefoque says on Mar 16, 2007, 08:10:

man, i really need to get medicated soon, i can't even read right.
thanks raulin

ASK NOT WHAT THE PUSSY CAN DO FOR YOU, BUT WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR THAT PUSSY!!!!!!!!!! CAT LOVER

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jsmithjoe says on Mar 16, 2007, 09:45:

Kat 1 "I rather live in Spain than in the USA. specially in Sevilla or Ronda. beautiful cities. and those Spanish boys are gorgeous too ;))"

Colombian or not that is classic Western European non-sense. For several reasons. 1. I would rather live in Sevilla than the United States, what kind of statement is that. That is analogous to me stating I would rather live in Malibu, Maui, or South Beach, rather than the Continent of Europe. That is, you are comparing living in a city (sevilla) to living in a country - larger than all of western Europe. A true statement of ignorance - and demonstrates that you have not lived in the United States, and you have probably seen very little of it. But with that said lets make a point - I would live in almost any part of the United States over crappy England (and I lived in London for six months) weather sucks, food suck, people are ugly, yes I am shallow - but friendly and a liberal attitude I appreciate. I have lived in Spain - and I too would rather live in parts of it over other parts of the United States - but I would take a beach house in Malibu over all of Spain period (Friendlier, richer, better looking people, bigger houses, nicer beach, better weather than the costa del sol etc. just better period). 2) cannot make real money in Spain. A weak economy even on European standards. The person above complaining about $ 3,000 of taxes a month. I pay around $6,000, you pay a lot in Europe too. The thing about Europe is they provide health care - so it is kind of embarrassing that taxes are so outrageous and we cannot even supply our people with basic needs. With that said, you make more money in the US then in Spain - and the vast majority of western Europe for that matter bar London. And that is another reason why you are better off in say LA, NY Chicago etc. 3) Good looking doods in Spain – doods in spain are short with bad skin. California doodes way better looking (period) - you should make your way out here.

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 16, 2007, 10:19:

jsmithjoe if you want to live in the USA rather than in any other country that is your problem not mine, I could care less where do you want to live, but I have been in the USA, I have a sister living there and I don't like IT full stop, why do I have to like it? may I ask?

Gezzz, when I said SPECIALLY I meant of all of Spain that would be the best two cities I would prefer to live. DO YOU UN..DER..STAND..

and dear money isn't everything I can be happy with what I go now anywhere in the world!!
.


are YOU 17 BTW?


what an argument!!!, it's like having an argument with a teenager.

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jsmithjoe says on Mar 16, 2007, 10:46:

It is a solid argument - Again you say your sister is living in the USA - and I stated that comparing even spain to the USA is a joke, it is analogous to me stating that I would rather live in California than the continent of Europe. You are generalizing a nation that is enormous it is frequently done by people who live in Western Europe. Money is not everything. I agree. Sunny days, however, are directly linked to happiness. Southern California, more sunny days than most parts of the world and a lot more than say - England. Again, what part of the US does your sister live in? Kentucky? Montana? New York? Texas? Florida? California? You see what I am saying, consider each state - they are all very different. I would prefer to live in Spain say than some of the aforementioned states, but I would not generalize the whole country. You keep stating that you have been to the USA. Which part? It is enormous. Just like I can go to Italy and get a completely different experience then a trip to cold and ugly England, you could go to South Dakota and get a completely different experience than say Oregon. I was being obnoxious on purpose. That is, I was trying to demonstrate how obnoxious a statement your comparison was. Generally, I believe comparisons are odeious. So I hate to engage in them. I just hate how many people I meet outside the US generalize a country that is so divided, so diverse, and so complex. Think about the US - think about its diversity I walk through LA in neigborhoods where they only speak korean, chinese or Spanish. And then think about how enormous it is. A flight from NY to England is the same time as a flight from LA to NY. It is you get different culture, different beauty, from one neigborhood to the next, and definitely from one state to the next. Yet you compare a country and specified a city in the country to the most diverse nation in the universe. With many aspects I despise, with a president that no Californian elected (both terms), but many part enchanting and wonderful - you should open your eyes and travel more. I am 28 - I have lived on 4 different continents.

Finally, California guys are better looking I am telling you, but I know you have never been here. I, however, have lived in Spain and England - and I am 28, good looking, good heart, and make tons of cheese - Maybe I can call next time I am in england??

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manINred says on Mar 16, 2007, 10:58:

Ignore people like that kat1 he's obviously insulted that someone doesn't consider his country the best in the world. As for his demeaning and ignorant comments about London/England, well, no comment.

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 16, 2007, 10:59:

ok smith if you are happy in the USA fine, I am happy were I am what is the problem?? I am not comparing the two countries I just saying I rather prefer Spain over the USA like many will prefer.. i don't know... France over Germany its a matter of taste.



BTW I agree with you Californian men are gorgeous too.

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miamimike says on Mar 16, 2007, 11:12:

Kat I agree with your Comments as an American(a Veteran at that) For many Spainish speaking Immigrants,Spain is more immigrant friendly and I base my reasons on this: Great extensive Public Transportation is in place for those without Cars(as is the case with many immigrants), inner city buses, trains, long distance trains ect. Healthcare--good extensive universal coverage system in place unlike the USA. No need to Learn a new Langauge so a spanish speaker will progress much faster,,, If the Immigrant is Professional and wants to get his/her Degree revalidated to work(doctor, lawyer, nurse, teacher ect) it is much much easier(and faster) to accomplish. Spain lifestyle in general has a nice ambience to it that is lacking here in the USA. Spain, a Great Country IMHO,,, BTW, A friend of mine and his wife Immigrated from Havana, Cuba to Madrid, he now is Supervisor for USA based delivery UPS,,,

"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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jsmithjoe says on Mar 16, 2007, 11:26:

I like California more than the entire USA. That is all, it is better, better weather, better people, more money, bigger houses . . Spain is more immigrant friendly than the USA - is that a joke? I lived in Spain - it is very hard as an immigrant to get a job talk to a morrocon or an Arab. As for Miami I dont know but I hear they have a pretty powerful immigrant community (i.e., cubans). My family is immigrants and they are LOADED, my next door neigbors from Mexico are also loaded, I dont know this place is pretty immigrant friendly,

but in the US I must confess I only really know about my beloved California - with its beautiful men... Living in California will make a man want to be gay.

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 16, 2007, 11:32:

OH DEAR (00)
OH DEAR (00)

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jsmithjoe says on Mar 16, 2007, 11:37:

Kat... "oh dear" you better chill out. Married or not we will be on a date when I am in London at the end of August. Yeah I saw your picture and I liked it. I will shoot you a picture of me. Average (by california standards) beautfiul anywhere else...

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aztec says on Mar 16, 2007, 11:39:

Living in California will make a man want to be gay. Great, that leaves more women for the rest on the male population. I am all for Gay men and lets hope their ranks multiply.

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tiopw says on Mar 16, 2007, 11:42:

The special ariport treatment is not exclusive of spain. I have been treated very badly in Italy and Germany for instance. A turkish police guy got very nervous once cause he couldnt see the extension on my papers in Istambul one time as well. As any other Colombian here knows... being from our country is about the worst thing to be when it comes to travelling, maybe Irakis and Afghanis have it similar.

I dont think Spaniards have any special discomptent for Colombians other than the usual people who will dislike inmigrants and such (speciall scary drug dealing colombians wooooooo)

I dont think Colombians have any special dislike for Spaniards other than the usual people who still think of the whole: 'we came, raped,killed your indians and stole all your gold' thing.

I guess is feel about the Spaniards as the absent fathers that got under-age latin america pregnant and left never taking any responsability whatsoever. I think they should grant automatic Visa to all Colombians, the way the Dutch or other countries take in people from their former colonies... but hate them or dislike them? naahhh I have a lot of cool Spaniard friends and who cares about history they are nice guys who had nothing to do with that, is like blaming us for what Uribe o whoever does.

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Colombiano_81 says on Mar 16, 2007, 11:58:

Spain more immigrant friendly?? I have to agree with the gay guy here and say The USA is more immigrant friendly. I lived in Miami as a tourist and made tons of money working ilegaly for 6 months...everything is handed to you no questions asked. Credit cards, lawyers, bank accounts, license, jobs, insurance, you name it... And this is AFTER 911. Once you have these things it is much easier to get status in the country. Do you think the European Union makes it as easy for immigrants? Give me a break!

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Colombiano_81 says on Mar 16, 2007, 12:01:

Hell I bet if i had accepted all their mail sent daily to my house about joining the army they would have helped me out getting a residence or something...I would just apply telling them I am a Canadian citizen wanting to help their country out if they help me get US papers Im telling you they would probably agree...They would see a young healthy handsome Colombian Canadian and would throw me in the front lines in Iraq.

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Colombiano_81 says on Mar 16, 2007, 12:04:

Oh, and I live in Spian now...so I can speak for both countries...Canary islands, Tenerife.

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jsmithjoe says on Mar 16, 2007, 12:18:

Colombiano_81 Testify Brother Testify . . . I lived in Spain for 8 months it was not immigrant friendly, But I love Kapital...

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miamimike says on Mar 16, 2007, 12:23:

My Friend is proof in the Pudding,,, Went to Spain as an Immigrant from Havana Cuba in the mid 80s and is now a regional Supervisor with US bases UPS delivery. Makes big bucks btw. His Wife is a Teacher and hardly missed a beat restarting her Teaching Career in Madrid from Cuba. What happens when an immigrant gets sick in Miami? Non Emergency type Illness opr preventive type care? Good Luck! A friend from Peru without insurance had a Heart Attack and was sent to Kendall regional Med Ctr here in Miami, when she was discharged 10 days later, she was sent home with a reduced negotiated Charity bill of $45,000 and a monthly payment plan. Not that she would not have liked to buy Health Insurance but at a single nongroup rate it would have cost her over $700 Monthly for Blue Cross/Shield. In Miami, if you don't speak English, you will be relegated to low level Jobs like a Baby sitter, nanny, cuida los ancianos, yardwork ect ect. Essentially you are up the creek(sh*t)without a Paddle. BTW as an Ex employee with US immigration and US public Health here in Miami, I am very aware of the Treatment of Colombians at Miami Intl Airport -some of it deserved but in many cases this rude treatment was completely out of line. I have yet to see many Colombians who would say they were handed everything on a Silver Platter like Insurance, credit ect, US Citizens and Permenent Residents don't even recieve this treatment! Most Colombians I know would vigorously disagree with this opinion. They would claim just the Opposite! LOL I have Colombian friends looking to rent Apartments currently and without Valid ID Documentation, they can't even rent a Studio Apt in Miami Beach,,,,They rent bedrooms off thier friends or relatives in some pretty lousy conditions. Another one is currently detained in the Krome Detention Center(my old workplace)for ignoring an Immigration Order(INS went to his house early and just picked him up at 6am), now he stands to lose his home in Kendall, Car ect. He is housed with Criminals and Felones at Krome and now He is awaiting Deportation. And he will recive a 10-15 year exclusion before he can ever even apply to return legally to the USA while his young daughter and wife are here in the USA, unless they want to move with him to Bogota. . His biggest crime was overstaying his Visa and working at an Honest Job without Legal Papers,,,I have seen many many actual similair cases like this since actually living here in Miami since 1995. And it has gotten much tighter in the last few years for many without Valid papers here in Miami...

"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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Colombiano_81 says on Mar 16, 2007, 16:46:

well I rallied your post miamimike but the site crashed so tiugh luck.....for me.

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kalder says on Mar 16, 2007, 17:29:

Smithy- you little ray of California sunshine... So you're coming to England in August? Fortune has indeed smiled on us! I know you'll have a wonderful time. But be sure to visit some of our many and varied hostelries. Where you'll have ample opportunity to display your looks, heart and 'cheese' to the attentive locals. You may even try your inimitable charm on the womenfolk (especially the married ones - you rogue you). You'll be assured of a welcome without parallel!

"kalder- have you ever had a woman?"--Sam Salmon

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poco says on Mar 16, 2007, 22:18:

They would if they could An experience banker in NYC is pulling more than 10 thousand a month. ~~~~~~ have cousins making 4 millones and more a month working in Colombia, no way in hell they’re gonna go to Spain,,, Many of these Colombians end up in Europe for one reason and one reason only; they could not get into USA.

As previously noted the word was BAKER, plus the Colombian bakers have pastry experience. Please note the spelling of pastry. There is NOT a "U" in pastry.

Interesting, you do have experience with the SALARY structure in Colombia. Does this indicate your opinion of those thinking ONE MILLION pesos would have NO Problem? How about ONE THOUSAND dollars a month ($2,200,000 pesos)?

I think the pain in your finger is spreading. You are right of course, they probably can’t get into the United States and maybe that is why they like Spain.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 17, 2007, 04:17:

the second most difficult visa to get at the moment for Colombians is the Spanish one. is easier to come to the UK.


jsmithjoe I don't live in London and in August I will be in Colombia.:p

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jaramillo says on Mar 17, 2007, 09:50:

You won't miss much Kat He lives surrounded by so many beautiful men he now wants to be gay.

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jsmithjoe says on Mar 17, 2007, 10:04:

Kat - Kat, my apologies I was just making the point that I found you very attractive. With that said, does it make a man gay if he is able to notice another beautiful man; if he can cry; if he can love? I am still a man's man. Give me salami and some beer and a beautiful woman and I am all good. I am just throwing it out there that in Southern California I am average looking but whenever I travel I get looks and girls love me.

Finally, Kat I am debating between Europe and the Ferias in Medellin in August, I had so much fun at the one in Cali, I was thinking it would be worth it to check out. I hope I have not offended you. Thanks for your time.

And the truth is kalder i love England. I have duel citizenship Irish (EU) and Californian(US). My mom is English and my father is Irish (by way of the middle east).

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poco says on Mar 17, 2007, 10:39:

Oh Dear - Get me a Beer I guess a British Oh Dear (oo) is different than a Colombian OH DEAR (OO)

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 17, 2007, 10:46:

::

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jaramillo says on Mar 17, 2007, 11:02:

When is a man gay? jsmithjoe asks pensively "With that said, does it make a man gay if he is able to notice another beautiful man; if he can cry; if he can love?"

Maybe not. But when the same man states assertively

"but in the US I must confess I only really know about my beloved California - with its beautiful men... Living in California will make a man want to be gay."


then I have my doubts.

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Cerealkiller says on Mar 17, 2007, 11:05:

Kat1, France over Germany? Dear god, I liked you until you came up with that :P On the other hand, I agree with you... I prefer living in Europe over living in the US, although Spain remains on my "only during winter everywhere else" list. I dig the freedom in Europe, not knowing who my neighbors are, not having anyone judging everything i say or do, not seeing obscenely fat people, except for that fat kid on the news...
Back to the main topic, i do believe spaniards are not the friendliest towards colombians, or south americans for that matter. I dont know if its something related to the fact that foreign hookers in spain are mostly colombian, or just a historical thing...maybe both.

Conservatives are not necessarily stupid, but most stupid people are conservatives -John Stuart Mill

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Mar 17, 2007, 11:10:

CK iwas just putting an CK iwas just putting an example, but saying that my husband prefers Germany over france

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Cerealkiller says on Mar 17, 2007, 11:16:

I am trying to get my bf to move to Germany in the near future.. Id love that, Problem is he couldnt get a job as he doesnt speak any German :( At least he is still American enough to refuse to move to France :P

Conservatives are not necessarily stupid, but most stupid people are conservatives -John Stuart Mill

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aztec says on Mar 17, 2007, 11:21:

i do believe spaniards are not the friendliest towards colombian We have been told that the Spaniards behave awful towards Colombians treating them like dirt.

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ecco says on Mar 17, 2007, 11:53:

I will be travelling to Colombia from Madrid (and back again) in August/ September. I don't imagine there will be many other nationalities in the same flight other than Colombian or Spanish (but really I don't have a clue). Kind of expecting I could be the only British person on the flight. Anyway, I will be interested in seeing if I notice any of this in the airport, any rudeness/ hostility towards Colombians.

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jaramillo says on Mar 17, 2007, 14:00:

The main rule of life in Spain is Viva Yo! It's not that they are that rude, it is that often they don't give a rat's ass.

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manINred says on Mar 18, 2007, 17:48:

2 educated Spaniards' points of view At a party i was once at, hosted by Colombians and it there was a mix of latin americans and spanish, I started speaking to a couple of Spaniards. I asked the spaniards what people in spain thought of colombians, and here was their reply (the two, from asturias and madrid both had the same observations to make):

Colombians: individually are wonderful, there are many in spain, but they have a bad name... why? because every day in the news there's another Colombian dead. Gang problems. They bring some of their problems to Spain and get involved in crime. This might be exacerbated by the constant media attention (announcing of dead colombians in the papers a few times a week). Wonderful people though, and many rich bogotenos go to madrid and spend tons of money and flaunt their wealth.

Ecuadorians (I asked about them, just for curiosity's sake): Basically the Ecuadorians in Spain are hard-working people, and after economic difficulties and massive inflation in Ecuador left many in despair, there was a huge wave of Ecuadorian immigrants. The Ecuadorians have made it affordable for Spanish to have help: maids, cooks, cleaners, etc... and are generally well-appreciated in Spanish society.


Anyway, that was two educated Spaniards' points of view.

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adrimm says on Mar 18, 2007, 21:09:

Kalder I'm Canuck, with 1/2 Colombian heritage.. mentioned it to a crowd of younger Spanish folks at the bar on the train (entering Spain from France) when they inquired as to why I spoke Spanish so well.. Well I've never seen a group of people turn colder faster. Thankfully there were some Brits and Aussies who didn't give a crap about where my grandparents were born.

After then I dumbed down my spanish and told most people who asked that I had studied it in high school (which is true). To their credit the others I told the whole story to didn't seem to take issue. I did have a lovely time eating late in the back kitchen of a Cuban restaurant.

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linav10 says on Jun 17, 2007, 13:02:

Depends I guess I have been to Spain twice, last time in March. Born in Colombia, 22 years old, live im Miami and have US citizenship. My boyfriend is from Spain and I went to visit him. The people in the airport werent particularily rude, just very serious, but thats anywhere you go and with mostly everyone. You will find every type of person in Spain, it just depends. I have been to San Sebastian, way up in the north and the people there are very serious, and I have been to Alicante, in the eastern southern region, and the people there are a bit more lively. Cant say I had a bad experience,or anything like that and I did find people to be nice....maybe it was because I was with my boyfriend and he is from there, who knows. I must say though, that Spanish men are alot more attractive than the women,,that is just my observation though, no to say that the women there arent attractive. Just that there is a higher ratio of good looking men, as opposed to women. Spanish men, also seem to like Latin girls. I dont know, I got hit on and looked at alot, especially when my boyfriend wasnt looking. I dont look like the 'traditional' Spanish girl, I have dark skin and eyes,,,And just to conclude this.......Women are beatiful all around the world, it just depends on what your standard of beauty is.

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