ericdharma has written 6 posts

Are home invasions and theft common in Cali

I am wondering what precautions expats take to protect the valuables in their homes? Are robberies of homes common and are expats specifically targeted? I am wondering if expats choose to generally isolate themselves in expats communities with some kind of special security or if they feel comfortable living in a local neighborhood? I'm sorry if it seems as if I am overstating the danger of Colombia but that is actually not my intention. I am living in a neighborhood in Buenos Aires now that is v ...

American tourist Visa in Cali

I´m an American travelling to Cali this January. I have two questions. First, is there something that I need to do in customs to insure that I get a 3 month stamp? From the research that I have done so far it seems as if the customs official takes a look at you and decides which stamp to give you based on his mood at the time and not necessarily on your needs. Also, what would be the penalty for overstaying the Visa? I have done it here and Argentina and I only had to pay a 50 peso fine. What w ...

Opinion about neighborhoods in Cali

I will be traveling to Cali, Colombia this coming January. I will be traveling alone and this will be my first trip. I want to stay until my visa expires so I am planning about 3 months. I was wondering if someone with experience in the area could give me some info about the pros and cons of different neighborhoods there. ...

Inflated prices for ST rental in Rodadero

I have spoken to a couple of rental agents in an attempt to book a short term rental apartment on the beach starting in June and possibly lasting through September. I have been quoted prices as high as $1500US per month because it is the "high season". I have heard that the beaches in Santa Marta, when compared with other South American countries are not even that great. The best ones have to be hiked to in Parque Tayrona. Why should anyone pay this amount to come to a small Colombian town and ...

Search: ST Santa Marta beach rental

Am I crazy to think that I will be able to find a short term rental in Santa Marta on the beach with a nice kitchen, A/C, balcony, maid service and internet connection for about $800USD per month? Here in Buenos Aires it is very possible (actually quite easy but without the beach). I want to kind of drop out and be a beach bum for a few months while and I have only been able to find a few internet sights that list short term rentals in this area. The ads are not very descriptive (usually don't m ...

Best Beach: Cartagena vs. Santa Marta

I am currently residing in Buenos Aires but have decided to relocate to Columbia. I have have ruled out staying in Bogota because I really don't want to stay in a cold place and want to be near a nice beach. The best case scenario that I could think of would be if I could find a nice short term rental apartment on or near the beach in Cartagena or Santa Marta. I was wondering if you have any advice about relocating to these places. I am a little worried that if I went to Cartagena it would be r ...

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