Sebastian has left 70 comments

Sebastian comments on What is the cheapest and fastest way to send something to Medellin?

I have things sent via regular US mail. write Gifts when the postmaster helps you address the package. Send under 2 kilos otherwise DIAN will charge you tax but also you have to go down to their office, get a bunch of photocopies which no one seems to agree on how many and of which page which is super annoying. Also, I think that it smart to take tags off. Good luck

Sebastian comments on camping in the colombian caribbean coast

That looks like Cabo San Juan

Sebastian comments on Need some help with Colombian Spanish

Darloup, As far as I know Vosotros is not used in the Americas. Use the Ustedes form instead for formal or informal situations. As a side note vos is used in place of tu in some areas of Colombia to address one person in the familiar mood. The conjugation of the verb is different and there was a recent thread explaining its use and conjugation, I will try and find it for you. Cheers, Sebas

Sebastian comments on Cedula Question - Left the Country for over 90 days ???

Go to DAS and see if it is still there. Since her never picked it up I bet they still have it.

Sebastian comments on Como prefieren Chicas Paisas que se les dirija ? Usted or Tu

Vos It's a little tricky to conjugate but listen and if you are already fluent you will pick it up. Once you are more than friends you can use tu which is fairly intimate. If you are fluent in mexican spanish, which your name suggests, then you might not be too familiar with vos. listen for the accent on the verb I was never taught about vos (as in tu) in Spanish classes in the states, Ecuador, Espana, Costa Rica or Mexico. But it has it's own conjugation in the present simple and command forms if I remember correctly. Anybody have a better explanation or a good link to explain VOS? Sebas

Sebastian comments on I need help with Columbian beers (no kidding!)

Also if anyone know where this place is or a phone number that would be helpful too. I read in an online version of El Colombiano that they have tours on Thursdays. Anybody know how to contact them to find out when the tour is?

Sebastian comments on I need help with Columbian beers (no kidding!)

Has anyone tried 3 Cordilleras? Looks like a Medellin microbrew. Being from the Northwest I have pretty high standards for beer. let me know if you try it and check out the article below. Sebas http://www.elcolombiano.com/BancoConocimiento/B/brindis_de_tres_cordilleras/brindis_de_tres_cordilleras.asp?CodSeccion=22

Sebastian comments on DAS raid at English Language School

I'm going to tell the school not to hand over ANY information. I should be fine but if somehow DAS gets ahold of my info I'm on the run. Is there an underground metro for runaway gringos?

Sebastian comments on WIN a free weeks stay-Hostel Name Contest

La Finca Las Palmas El Hostal Vueltiao Maricas Paradise Lounge and Bar Sebas

Sebastian comments on Any forum member connected to the "Salsa world" in Colombia?

Salsero, I am fairly up to date and connected on the Salsa scene here in Medellin. What style of Salsa dance do you like, how long have you studied, what level would you consider yourself? Salsa is one of the the reasons that I came to Colombia and in Medellin at least I am slightly disappointed from the dance point of view. Yes, you hear Salsa everywhere and most people know the basic step but the level of dancing here in Medallo is not even close to what it is in any big city in the states, even the NW Seattle, Portland, Eugene, Spokane have a much higher level of dancers, just not the quantity . Cali of course is different but even then they have their own style like any place. Tell me what are your Salsa goals and I can help you out and we can conquer the salsa night life! Salsaludos, Ian

Sebastian comments on Single travel - safe or not safe?

Post a picture of what you look like and I´ll let you know if an average Colombian thief would either like to kidnap or rob you. Seriously a photo would give me a better idea. but really it depends on where you are and what you are doing and also remember that Colombians get robbed all the time not just gringos.

Sebastian comments on Best Movies in or about Colombia?

Perro Come Perro and Bluff were both decent, recent flix

Sebastian comments on $US at 2005COP

and back down to 1975 an hour later

Sebastian comments on English Tutor Needed - Medellin

Hello, I sent you a PM. Have a great day! Sebastian, (aka Ian)

Sebastian comments on

Funny, I was just talking to a Colombian that misses living in the US because people drive too fast here in Medellin. Why do they drive so fast, because they are in a hurry...

Sebastian comments on Open Return Tickets from Colombia

I had the same situation as iCarajo. What I did was I bought a one-way ticket coming into Colombia because I didn't know exactly when I wanted to leave and I didn't want to go through the hassle of changing the ticket. Then I bought a full-price, fully refundable ticket from American showing that I was leaving Colombia after about 6 months of my original entry date so when I applied for my tourist extension I showed them that e-ticket and after that I refunded the ticket for full price. You could even doctor an e-ticket with different dates to show them. I think that it worked out well because I'm still in Colombia living the dream! jajajajajaja

Sebastian comments on Obama in Colombia!

Kalico buzzbeecd, Monita and others, It is widely known that Obama writes his own speeches. There were many powerful and moving moments last night that set Obama apart from most presidental canidates throughout history and in the company of some of the best. His idea that it's not about him, it's about the american people made me feel proud to be an american for the first time in many years. Having a leader like Bush puts a damper on my patriotism. Also the idea of Dem's and Rep's fighting, working, dying for not red states or blue states but the United States really unites us and we need to fight for what we all need not just what a few selfish, rich, ignorant modofokers need. Anyone who said that Obama will be bad for america is either rich or ignorant and maybe both. You don't know, you can't see the future. Who knows what will happen... Give the dude a chance! He's intelligent, charismatic, an excellent speaker and uniter of the clans. He reminds me of Fajardo in that I believe he will wisely invest in education, healthcare, and community programs. He is someone that can do something we have been trying to do for many years and that is help us deal with and solve racial problems in the US. Coming back to an earlier point he says that he isn't going to do it, we are going to do it and he is just the person that is going to lead us to what WE want for the country. McCain seems like a good dude but his policies will bring us the same problems of the last 8 years. Iraq, Katrina economy and worse. McCain, tell me what you can do for america with the same conviction as Barack? John McCain really doesn't know how to respond.

Sebastian comments on English School / Course Recommendation - Medellin

ULA Universal Language Academy, Small Class sizes (much smaller than the Colombo) good teachers

Sebastian comments on sonora carruseles concert in san francisco august 23

I am a big fan of La Sonora Carruseles because they play great power salsa with an old school flavor. Their music is played in lots of clubs in the US. I have lived in Colombia for over a year and have spoken to lots of Salsa fans who have never heard of them. I haven't heard any of their songs but I have heard the originals of the songs they have covered. Why doesn't la sonora tour in Colombia? I thought they would be national heroes/orgullo here but nothing. Any thoughts? Sebas

Sebastian comments on

It really depends on where you want to go. I find that public transportation is adequate, cheap, safe, usually quick, and you don't have to pay extra licenses/expenditures. Be more specific on where and what and for how long and I think that we can be of more help. Cheers!

Sebastian comments on Credit Cards in Colombia

Everytime that I flew into Medellin, via Rio Negro, I asked (nicely, in excellent Spanish) for 90 days but received just 60. I renewed at DAS for 30 days until 180 total with no problems. This has also been the case for many friends flying into Rio Negro. Could it be that different ports of entry may assign different initial stay amounts of days? Input...

Sebastian comments on Business Visa Leave every 6 months

Artículo 24. La Visa de Negocios tendrá una vigencia de hasta cuatro (4) años para múltiples entradas y autoriza una permanencia hasta por el término de seis (6) meses por cada ingreso. La vigencia de esta Visa terminará si el extranjero sobrepasa el término de permanencia autorizado. It sounds like I have to leave every 6 months or run the chance of my visa being cancelled. Is this consistent with anyones experience? Thanks for your help? Sebas

Sebastian comments on Business Visa Leave every 6 months

I have negocios. What is the difference? What are the advantages/disadvantages to either? Can you explain and/or direct me to a MRE page? Thanks, Sebas BTW I paid around 360,000 pesos plus Notaria fees, bus trips, etc. But I also had friends with companies who wrote letters, etc. so the Lawyer did not do everything.

Sebastian comments on

How long are you looking to rent for? Sebas

Sebastian comments on Dating and Marriage Rituals of 20 something Colombians

Pumas thats what my american roomates call them, the south american version of Cougars also called Veteranas by my colombian friends jaja, they definitely have their place

Sebastian comments on I can guess your age based on the number of times you log onto PBH a day!

Worked for me 28!

Sebastian comments on IRS economic stimulous sent to Colombia

What you should have done is had the govt. direct deposit the check into a US bank account. I got my refund in less than two weeks. Hindsight is golden. Keep your fingers crossed.

Sebastian comments on Best Restaurants (& Deliveries) in Medellin

My buddies and I like Lo de Vicente in Santa Lucia. The owner is from Argentina and will greet you with a big sweaty hug if you go and see him, awesome. They deliver except on Mondays. Take the Metro, get off at Santa Lucia and walk one block up the hill (south) Lo de Vicente is on your right. They deliver, 416 02 80

Sebastian comments on

I recommend Universal Language Academy. They are reasonably priced and class size is relatively small. They have several branches in the area that you are looking at. I would also be willing to teach them privately as I have experience teaching English to elementary age students. E-mail me directly for further information. Sebas

Sebastian comments on Apartment in Medellin.

I have a connection for a nice studio apartment with a washer and a small kitchen near Estadio. Send your contact info if you want more info. Sebas

Sebastian comments on English 212 - English teachers needed in Medellin

Where are you located? What barrio, what is the address? Sebas

Sebastian comments on WAY PUTA

My girlfriend says "hijuemadre" like "son of a mother" as a way to smooth it out and not be offensive. Even though everyone says "hijueputa" or "jueputa", it is still considered a bad word and some do find it offensive.

Sebastian comments on How to avoid kissing the wrong people...

LilaM, What's wrong with using a toothpick after a meal? Every restaurant has them and my dentist says that they are the best way to keep you gums healthy. If you or any other broad got offended if I toothpicked my teeth after a particularly meaty meal that would be the last time I ate with you. pickin' n grinin' Sebas

Sebastian comments on student visa extension

Just get it for a year and if you want to leave early, no problem. I think that would be easier than extending your visa.

Sebastian comments on Is there such a thing as a "Business Visa" in Colombia?

Yes, there is! Do a web search for a Colombian Consulate near you. The Houston Colombian Consulate has a good website. You can stay in Colombia on a tourist visa for up to 180 days in a Calendar year. It costs about $30 USD each month to renew and can be a pain the first time. Also do a search on PBH. Good Luck. Sebas

Sebastian comments on How many of you PBHers live in Medellin?

how do you say "despedida de soltero" en inglés? se dice "bachelor party" How about a gringo Salsa dance off? I would like to see all of the critics of Colombian Salseros and especially critics of paisa and gringo salseros try and dance.

Sebastian comments on Warning to you romantic gringos

For once I agree with Morph. He said, "First thing you do is stay away from those whore mansions and marriage agencies. Learn to speak Spanish and make friends with decent people. The good girls will come your way." Morph, maybe we can get along

Sebastian comments on Medellin Tourist Office

I don't have the address but there is a tourist office in El parque de las Luces next to Calle San Juan on the other side ofthe street from El Alpujarra . Ask for Sonia, she is nice and speaks a little bit of English.

Sebastian comments on Saludos Mr. Sergio Fajardo Y SUERTE!

I know a woman who works for the Mayors office and she told me that Sergio Fajardo is planning on running for prez after he does a show for Caracol touring the country. Mark my words, Sergio Fajardo will be the next President of Colombia! Que viva Fajardo! Que viva Colombia!

Sebastian comments on Salsa classes in Medellin

Who cares who is the best? Do you dance and have fun is the real question. And remember....... It takes 2 to tango! Dance and have a blast or sit and enjoy, just as long as its Salsa Dura, Descarga, Cuban Son, Latin Jazz, or Bugaloo! When you see a dirty blond dancin' sexy salsa in the club say Hi!

Sebastian comments on Salsa classes in Medellin

Am I stuck in a Seinfeld episode? Real Cubans? Are you serious? "If you go to Cuba and pick ANY Cuban off the street, they will win those competitions every time." Don't get me wrong I love how Cubans dance, even more than how Colombians dance but dude you are oversimplifying the argument! I have been told that I dance better than most Colombians too, big deal. It is in the competitions where who dances better than who is decided. All in all it come down to this. Do you LOVE Salsa? Can you dance salsa with any girl in any club (given that the girls can dance)? If you answered yes to both questions you are either a Salsero or a paraplegic Salsa lover. If you said no but want to say yes then you have some work to do. I could care less who wins those silly competitions. I care much more about walking into a Salsa Club, asking a sexy non-prepago to dance, and sending her back to her table with a smile. Leave the speculation up to the Salseros as to who dances better or better yet the ladies! Real Cubans! Those aren't real cubans, they are enslaved africans who over generations invented a dance to an ever evolving african based music with european influences. Real Cubans! Those aren't real cubans, they are ex-pats in Miami who would love a piece of Fidel as well as their vast wealth back! Real Cubans! Those aren't real cubans, real cubans dance Son, Guajira, Guaguanco, Bolero, Casino and Timba not Salsa. Real Cubans my cul at

Sebastian comments on Salsa classes in Medellin

Hey Morphus and Cheers Terry, "You take the worse(sip) dancer in Cuba and he will blow away the best dancer in Colombia." Then why do Colombians sweep all the international dance competitions? The Calenos even beat Cubans at their own game, the original salsa "Rueda de Casino". Stick to something you understand. These generalizations grow tiresome and they perpetuate misunderstanding and further ignorance. Salsero hasta la muerte, Sebas

Sebastian comments on Salsa classes in Medellin

Hey MedTrav, It is easy to laugh at people for trying something new. I am 100% gringo and I have beat latins in dance competitions, not because I am a great dancer but because I love Salsa and I have learned and practiced more than them. Those particular cuban dancers have been dancing since the womb but Calenos still beat them in international competitions! I have seen Swedes out-dance latins and africans. I have seen chinese dance the pants off cubans. So yeah, maybe I don't dance exactly like a cuban but I dance, and I dance a lot better than most paisas so go ahead and laugh, I'll be dancing with your girlfriend. Sebas

Sebastian comments on Boat to Panama San Blas Islands and the never ending question...

Calendar year wins! Well I will probably be one of the first to test to see if it works in 2008. My 180 days for 2007 expires Dec. 27th. If DAS doesn't help me out with a special extension, then I'm off to Quito for a few days. I really hope that DAS at the Rionegro airport lets me back in! Thanks for your help! Sebas

Sebastian comments on Salsa classes in Medellin

Chrispej, I dance and teach as a hobby Rueda de Casino and I would love to collaborate with you in Jan. and Feb. I am here in Medellin indefinitely and I'm sure that I could dig up a partner. I learned in the states where I taught as well and would love to chat with you sometime. I want to teach here but to really take if to the next level you either need dedicated salseros o lots of teachers and preferably both. Seriously, hit me back and lets chat. Guapea! Ian

Sebastian comments on Boat to Panama San Blas Islands and the never ending question...

OK, Do I have to wait until July 2008? Will I have a new 60 day stamp on my passport if I come back Jan. 1? That is the eternal rolling year vs. calendar year question. Is there anybody out there who entered the country in 2007 after using up their whole six months on a tourist visa in the latter part of 2006? Thanks, I have an emergency here. Sebas

Sebastian comments on Extending our visas

The bank is Sudameris GNB

Sebastian comments on Colombia's City On A Hill: Medellin

I really like the fact the article was mainly about the leadership of Sergio Fajardo. Everyone I talk to here in Medallo says the guy has done nothing but good for the city. We need more leaders like him with sound solutions to difficult problems. Hopefully Salazar will keep it up. Thanks for posting the article!

Sebastian comments on Business Visa Lawyer

The above link took me to LA POLÃ?TICA EXTERIOR EN UN MUNDO CAMBIANTE REALIDAD INTERNACIONAL Y COYUNTURA INTERNA I don't think that is where you wanted to send me. Any other links? Sebas

Sebastian comments on Business Visa Lawyer

Gator, My friends were here on a tourist VISA. By the way, I can't find that resolution. Do you have a direct link? Thanks for the encouragement! Later Gator, Sebas