Nervous for first trip to Barranquilla

[Rschnb67]

Hi guys could you some advice I've been reading a lot and for the most part feel kind of comfortable going to Baq. alone.  I am the type of guy who needs to feel safe and know my escape route etc. I don't like big cities and like everyone else I've heard nothing but horror stories about Columbia but after reading all the posts I know that it's a beautiful country with beautiful people for the most part
 So I am planning on using Jamie from Latin wife for my interpreter and for my room and transportation to and from the airport     I've been chatting with one girl who I like and want to me I just don't know anybody there so I'm counting on Jamie for safety and for a nice place to stay and that sort of thing basically everybody says is a standup guy and I've spoke to him on the phone and definitely agree he seems very cool.   I worry about things like getting mugged especially when I'm exchanging my money and walking around with my girl who will meet me there from a nearby town
 So Jamie said it's no problem to use his transportation and interpreter and accommodations just want my mind to be put at ease I guess I'm not a real big traveler but I definitely want to do this
 I just don't want to arrive at the airport to find any problems and not be able to get a hold of anybody thanks

[kai #2]

You can't stop bad things from happening you can only mitigate them. If you look like this getting of the plane   
, than yea, you'll be at a higher risk. Don't be noid and just enjoy yourself. Don't carry around huge sums of money, don't be overly flashy or think that because you some money you're better than anyone else. I'm sure if you;ve been rummaging around the forums, there are MORE then enough Barranquila post to know whats really good

[Rschnb67]

 OK thanks I am sure I am not that obvious ha ha I was just wondering if anyone who has used Jamie service was happy with everything Like safe accomodations reliable transportation etc

[buencamino2]

Why would you be exchanging money? Don't you have a debit card?

[Rschnb67]

Why would you be exchanging money? Don't you have a debit card?

[bcc_1_2]

Columbia? Yikes, hold Jamie's hand my man.

[Rschnb67]

I would be exchanging money for paying for taxis etc. I assume

[buencamino2]

If you have a debit card you can take money out of ATMs just like in the states. They're all over the place. No need to travel with a lot of dollars on you.

[fathertime]

Hi guys could you some advice I've been reading a lot and for the most part feel kind of comfortable going to Baq. alone.  I am the type of guy who needs to feel safe and know my escape route etc. I don't like big cities and like everyone else I've heard nothing but horror stories about Columbia but after reading all the posts I know that it's a beautiful country with beautiful people for the most part
 So I am planning on using Jamie from Latin wife for my interpreter and for my room and transportation to and from the airport     I've been chatting with one girl who I like and want to me I just don't know anybody there so I'm counting on Jamie for safety and for a nice place to stay and that sort of thing basically everybody says is a standup guy and I've spoke to him on the phone and definitely agree he seems very cool.   I worry about things like getting mugged especially when I'm exchanging my money and walking around with my girl who will meet me there from a nearby town
 So Jamie said it's no problem to use his transportation and interpreter and accommodations just want my mind to be put at ease I guess I'm not a real big traveler but I definitely want to do this
 I just don't want to arrive at the airport to find any problems and not be able to get a hold of anybody thanks

You should be fine.   In retrospect I've done quite a few minor league stupid things in Colombia and haven't had anything bad happen ....Assuming the service is still the same, Jamie and/or his people will be around as much as you need, or as little as you want...depending. 
Insofar as reliability, I've never experienced better in Colombia, or anywhere else for that matter.  You really got to watch out for Barranquillian water, I've found that it will give you a horrible case of the trots at minimum, which I've had twice...so take that seriously.


The travel and lady(s) will probably make this a true adventure. I hope you update us on how it is going, and your observations.


Fathertime!

[Hector_Lavoe]

I just don't want to arrive at the airport to find any problems and not be able to get a hold of anybody thanks

I think it's normal to be a little nervous on your first trip. Is this your first trip to Latin America and how is your Spanish?


You'll definitely be as safe as can be in Jamie's hands. He'll have someone pick you up at the airport and you'll be fine.


Definitely drink bottled water, don't touch the tap other than to wash hands, etc. And bring a spare change of clothes in your carry on, just in case your luggage gets delayed.


Other than that practice your Spanish and look forward to a good time. No, Colombia is not Disneyland but just use common sense precaution and you'll be fine.

[Rschnb67]

 Thanks yes this is my first trip to Columbia I was in Mexico once however I met a girl through Jamie's email service  and this would be the best way for us to meet for the first time so I am happy to hear all the positive things about Jamie I had that feeling he was a standup guy so I appreciate all the comments I will not drink the water and I will not bring a ton of cash  thank you all for the feedback

[Rschnb67]

My issue is im
Skeptical and cautious in nature however the comments have convinced me to go meet my future wife. Thanks everyone!!

[robert angel]

It'd be more of an issue if you weren't at least a bit skeptical and certainly cautious. That is not saying you don't need to have to be aggressive once you get there, letting the woman/s know what you want. Caution there abouts is perceived as weakness and lack of resolve and will push you to the end of the line with women.

[vikingo]

No offense young man, but Colombia is for the fearless and adventurers and the women are tough. Many of them had a gun stuck in their face and being robbed of their cellphone or cash at one time or another. They don't wear real gold jewelry out in the street either, only silver and custom jewelry. They don't really like men who have that worried look on their face and constantly look over their shoulder. So act cool at all times. You might as well know, crime, even in Barranquilla is a daily occurrence. The local paper 'Al Día' features 3 to 5 murder cases every single day. Besides, this is the time of year robberies are taking off big time because the thieves need presents for their wife's and girlfriends, even for their mothers. The bastards even hold up buses and have every passenger hand over their valueables, happened here once again just a few days ago.
Last week a policeman out of uniform was held up in traffic by two guys on moto after he left the Panorama shopping center on his own moto, he had just withdrawn 2.400.000 pesos from the ATM for his daughters 15th birthday celebration, a big event in Latin American countries. Apparently he argued with the thieves and they shot him dead. A young man, mid thirties, leaving a family behind.
All I can tell you, leave your iPhone 6 in the States, get a cheap used phone that can handle WhatsApp,
if you have an iPhone 6 she wants you to buy her one too. Don't walk or be driven around with more than 200 mil pesos on your person, don't carry a wallet, an expensive watch, a passport or your drivers license on you. Leave your passport at the hotel and carry copies of important pages. Split up your bills and carry them in different pockets, no wallet! Get rid of that tourist look, look like you live here, be cool, calm and collected. If you do get robbed it's no big loss.
Almost all people here, good or bad, think a gringo is a walking money tree. The great majority of Colombian women are interested in gringos mainly for economical reasons. Your looks, manners and education come secondary. They want to improve their economic situation before anything else. Even if you find one with a good paying job, she wants to quit working of course and travel with you. Now they no longer need visas for most European countries, so a trip to Paris, Rom or London would make their dreams come true.
If you're thinking about falling in love with a young attractive chick remember it would be insane to take her to the States. You wouldn't last longer longer than a few months or she would be so conceited from all the attention she is getting that she'll turn into an unbearable monster. Best knock her up right away, it will increase your chances to hang on to her.
Also keep in mind that these chicks are very attached to their mom (most of them grew up without a dad) and little nieces and nephews so figure on several trips home for her during the year.
Women you meet under 40 either have a child or want one, be prepared for that. Her family will love you to death because they hope you'll  help them out financially. Learn to be hard-nosed; she'll respect you for that. But be very, very nice to her mom, her approval will make you or break you. Be prepared that her mom and often her best female friend will know every little detail of every argument you ever had with her.
She will spend hours and hours on the phone with them discussing every single event of the day and your name will come up in the conversation more times than you like.
These women can be very ill tempered and go into screaming fits at the drop of a hat and act an hour later like nothing happened, be prepared for that also.
Also watch out for PMS, not a good time to argue with her.

Don't concentrate on one chick exclusively, don't be a WOVO like Gato and I, or Innocent Vixen will call you an idiot, lol. Be sure you have a plan B if she turns out to be a disappointment. I can't get out of my skin, besides I don't know how I could keep several different women apart without making notes. But granted, it's not wise what I did.

Don't be too generous with your money or you create yourself a monster. These women have absolutely no conception of handling money wisely. You need to train them to avoid desaster.

The Northern barrios of Barranquilla are generally, but not always safe. The further South you go the more grief you could run into. Stay out of Soledad, 3 out of 4 murders happen there.
These criminals who may rob you are coldblooded killers and don't hesitate to pull the trigger.
Most of them have a rebel or military background and are handy with guns, don't anybody kid yourself.
I would not call them 'hijueputa' or 'malparido de una puta madre', as much as you would like to, even if it applies to them, refrain from using those words which you will learn first here on the coast, becouse you will insult their pride, just hand over your hard earned cash, your cheap phone and your Timex and be glad you are alive. Many times taxidrivers are in cohouts with robbers. They will get on the cellphone and inform their 'friends' who will suddenly enter the taxy as well and take you to the nearest ATM. Don't flag them down on the street, take registered taxis in front of shopping centers, hotels and the like.
Most crimes happen at night when the cockroaches come out. Not a good idea to walk the streets alone or with your girl at night if you are a greenhorn. Use ATM's in shopping centers, only make one withdrawal, then disappear in stores like you are spending the money. Don't leave right away for the outside. Try to blend in, Colombian men rarely wear shorts, dress like them, walk like you know where you're going, don't ever look helpless. be careful about asking Colombians for directions, they usually have no idea where places are but will give you directions anyway; it is considered rude here to say 'I don't know', so they invent something to not offend you.
If you ever end up at the beach, don't buy shrimp cocktails or the likes from the numerous vendors,
you may get very sick, happened to us once.
You are spending a huge shunk of money for this trip, hopefully you haven't paid for your entire accomodations in advance. Maybe you want to find more affordable and better accomodations after a few day's, talk to your girl about it, let her guide you in money matters. I't's also a good test to see if she is frugal or out to spend your last dime. Hopefully you haven't told her about your safety concerns and fears. Not a good idea. She knows her people better than you do and will keep an eye out for trouble and protect you, that's what they do.
 
 

 

[utopiacowboy]

Many of them had a gun stuck in their face and being robbed of their cellphone or cash at one time or another.

I had to laugh reading that. One time my wife had just left me at the airport in Medellin and was taking a bus that was hijacked by a bunch of criminals. They were busy robbing everyone while my wife was trying to find a way to get off the bus. She hears a guy telling her to sit down while banging something against her leg which turns out to be a gun. So yeah, they've seen it all. 

[benjio]

No offense young man, but Colombia is for the fearless and adventurers and the women are tough. Many of them had a gun stuck in their face and being robbed of their cellphone or cash at one time or another. They don't wear real gold jewelry out in the street either, only silver and custom jewelry. They don't really like men who have that worried look on their face and constantly look over their shoulder. So act cool at all times. You might as well know, crime, even in Barranquilla is a daily occurrence. The local paper 'Al Día' features 3 to 5 murder cases every single day. Besides, this is the time of year robberies are taking off big time because the thieves need presents for their wife's and girlfriends, even for their mothers. The bastards even hold up buses and have every passenger hand over their valueables, happened here once again just a few days ago.
Last week a policeman out of uniform was held up in traffic by two guys on moto after he left the Panorama shopping center on his own moto, he had just withdrawn 2.400.000 pesos from the ATM for his daughters 15th birthday celebration, a big event in Latin American countries. Apparently he argued with the thieves and they shot him dead. A young man, mid thirties, leaving a family behind.
All I can tell you, leave your iPhone 6 in the States, get a cheap used phone that can handle WhatsApp,
if you have an iPhone 6 she wants you to buy her one too. Don't walk or be driven around with more than 200 mil pesos on your person, don't carry a wallet, an expensive watch, a passport or your drivers license on you. Leave your passport at the hotel and carry copies of important pages. Split up your bills and carry them in different pockets, no wallet! Get rid of that tourist look, look like you live here, be cool, calm and collected. If you do get robbed it's no big loss.
Almost all people here, good or bad, think a gringo is a walking money tree. The great majority of Colombian women are interested in gringos mainly for economical reasons. Your looks, manners and education come secondary. They want to improve their economic situation before anything else. Even if you find one with a good paying job, she wants to quit working of course and travel with you. Now they no longer need visas for most European countries, so a trip to Paris, Rom or London would make their dreams come true.
If you're thinking about falling in love with a young attractive chick remember it would be insane to take her to the States. You wouldn't last longer longer than a few months or she would be so conceited from all the attention she is getting that she'll turn into an unbearable monster. Best knock her up right away, it will increase your chances to hang on to her.
Also keep in mind that these chicks are very attached to their mom (most of them grew up without a dad) and little nieces and nephews so figure on several trips home for her during the year.
Women you meet under 40 either have a child or want one, be prepared for that. Her family will love you to death because they hope you'll  help them out financially. Learn to be hard-nosed; she'll respect you for that. But be very, very nice to her mom, her approval will make you or break you. Be prepared that her mom and often her best female friend will know every little detail of every argument you ever had with her.
She will spend hours and hours on the phone with them discussing every single event of the day and your name will come up in the conversation more times than you like.
These women can be very ill tempered and go into screaming fits at the drop of a hat and act an hour later like nothing happened, be prepared for that also.
Also watch out for PMS, not a good time to argue with her.

Don't concentrate on one chick exclusively, don't be a WOVO like Gato and I, or Innocent Vixen will call you an idiot, lol. Be sure you have a plan B if she turns out to be a disappointment. I can't get out of my skin, besides I don't know how I could keep several different women apart without making notes. But granted, it's not wise what I did.

Don't be too generous with your money or you create yourself a monster. These women have absolutely no conception of handling money wisely. You need to train them to avoid desaster.

The Northern barrios of Barranquilla are generally, but not always safe. The further South you go the more grief you could run into. Stay out of Soledad, 3 out of 4 murders happen there.
These criminals who may rob you are coldblooded killers and don't hesitate to pull the trigger.
Most of them have a rebel or military background and are handy with guns, don't anybody kid yourself.
I would not call them 'hijueputa' or 'malparido de una puta madre', as much as you would like to, even if it applies to them, refrain from using those words which you will learn first here on the coast, becouse you will insult their pride, just hand over your hard earned cash, your cheap phone and your Timex and be glad you are alive. Many times taxidrivers are in cohouts with robbers. They will get on the cellphone and inform their 'friends' who will suddenly enter the taxy as well and take you to the nearest ATM. Don't flag them down on the street, take registered taxis in front of shopping centers, hotels and the like.
Most crimes happen at night when the cockroaches come out. Not a good idea to walk the streets alone or with your girl at night if you are a greenhorn. Use ATM's in shopping centers, only make one withdrawal, then disappear in stores like you are spending the money. Don't leave right away for the outside. Try to blend in, Colombian men rarely wear shorts, dress like them, walk like you know where you're going, don't ever look helpless. be careful about asking Colombians for directions, they usually have no idea where places are but will give you directions anyway; it is considered rude here to say 'I don't know', so they invent something to not offend you.
If you ever end up at the beach, don't buy shrimp cocktails or the likes from the numerous vendors,
you may get very sick, happened to us once.
You are spending a huge shunk of money for this trip, hopefully you haven't paid for your entire accomodations in advance. Maybe you want to find more affordable and better accomodations after a few day's, talk to your girl about it, let her guide you in money matters. I't's also a good test to see if she is frugal or out to spend your last dime. Hopefully you haven't told her about your safety concerns and fears. Not a good idea. She knows her people better than you do and will keep an eye out for trouble and protect you, that's what they do.

Pure scripture....read everything Vikingo wrote here at least 3 times Rschnb67!!!!!

[robert angel]

No offense young man, but Colombia is for the fearless and adventurers and the women are tough. Many of them had a gun stuck in their face and being robbed of their cellphone or cash at one time or another. They don't wear real gold jewelry out in the street either, only silver and custom jewelry. They don't really like men who have that worried look on their face and constantly look over their shoulder. So act cool at all times. You might as well know, crime, even in Barranquilla is a daily occurrence. The local paper 'Al Día' features 3 to 5 murder cases every single day. Besides, this is the time of year robberies are taking off big time because the thieves need presents for their wife's and girlfriends, even for their mothers. The bastards even hold up buses and have every passenger hand over their valueables, happened here once again just a few days ago.
Last week a policeman out of uniform was held up in traffic by two guys on moto after he left the Panorama shopping center on his own moto, he had just withdrawn 2.400.000 pesos from the ATM for his daughters 15th birthday celebration, a big event in Latin American countries. Apparently he argued with the thieves and they shot him dead. A young man, mid thirties, leaving a family behind.
All I can tell you, leave your iPhone 6 in the States, get a cheap used phone that can handle WhatsApp,
if you have an iPhone 6 she wants you to buy her one too. Don't walk or be driven around with more than 200 mil pesos on your person, don't carry a wallet, an expensive watch, a passport or your drivers license on you. Leave your passport at the hotel and carry copies of important pages. Split up your bills and carry them in different pockets, no wallet! Get rid of that tourist look, look like you live here, be cool, calm and collected. If you do get robbed it's no big loss.
Almost all people here, good or bad, think a gringo is a walking money tree. The great majority of Colombian women are interested in gringos mainly for economical reasons. Your looks, manners and education come secondary. They want to improve their economic situation before anything else. Even if you find one with a good paying job, she wants to quit working of course and travel with you. Now they no longer need visas for most European countries, so a trip to Paris, Rom or London would make their dreams come true.
If you're thinking about falling in love with a young attractive chick remember it would be insane to take her to the States. You wouldn't last longer longer than a few months or she would be so conceited from all the attention she is getting that she'll turn into an unbearable monster. Best knock her up right away, it will increase your chances to hang on to her.
Also keep in mind that these chicks are very attached to their mom (most of them grew up without a dad) and little nieces and nephews so figure on several trips home for her during the year.
Women you meet under 40 either have a child or want one, be prepared for that. Her family will love you to death because they hope you'll  help them out financially. Learn to be hard-nosed; she'll respect you for that. But be very, very nice to her mom, her approval will make you or break you. Be prepared that her mom and often her best female friend will know every little detail of every argument you ever had with her.
She will spend hours and hours on the phone with them discussing every single event of the day and your name will come up in the conversation more times than you like.
These women can be very ill tempered and go into screaming fits at the drop of a hat and act an hour later like nothing happened, be prepared for that also.
Also watch out for PMS, not a good time to argue with her.

Don't concentrate on one chick exclusively, don't be a WOVO like Gato and I, or Innocent Vixen will call you an idiot, lol. Be sure you have a plan B if she turns out to be a disappointment. I can't get out of my skin, besides I don't know how I could keep several different women apart without making notes. But granted, it's not wise what I did.

Don't be too generous with your money or you create yourself a monster. These women have absolutely no conception of handling money wisely. You need to train them to avoid desaster.

The Northern barrios of Barranquilla are generally, but not always safe. The further South you go the more grief you could run into. Stay out of Soledad, 3 out of 4 murders happen there.
These criminals who may rob you are coldblooded killers and don't hesitate to pull the trigger.
Most of them have a rebel or military background and are handy with guns, don't anybody kid yourself.
I would not call them 'hijueputa' or 'malparido de una puta madre', as much as you would like to, even if it applies to them, refrain from using those words which you will learn first here on the coast, becouse you will insult their pride, just hand over your hard earned cash, your cheap phone and your Timex and be glad you are alive. Many times taxidrivers are in cohouts with robbers. They will get on the cellphone and inform their 'friends' who will suddenly enter the taxy as well and take you to the nearest ATM. Don't flag them down on the street, take registered taxis in front of shopping centers, hotels and the like.
Most crimes happen at night when the cockroaches come out. Not a good idea to walk the streets alone or with your girl at night if you are a greenhorn. Use ATM's in shopping centers, only make one withdrawal, then disappear in stores like you are spending the money. Don't leave right away for the outside. Try to blend in, Colombian men rarely wear shorts, dress like them, walk like you know where you're going, don't ever look helpless. be careful about asking Colombians for directions, they usually have no idea where places are but will give you directions anyway; it is considered rude here to say 'I don't know', so they invent something to not offend you.
If you ever end up at the beach, don't buy shrimp cocktails or the likes from the numerous vendors,
you may get very sick, happened to us once.
You are spending a huge shunk of money for this trip, hopefully you haven't paid for your entire accomodations in advance. Maybe you want to find more affordable and better accomodations after a few day's, talk to your girl about it, let her guide you in money matters. I't's also a good test to see if she is frugal or out to spend your last dime. Hopefully you haven't told her about your safety concerns and fears. Not a good idea. She knows her people better than you do and will keep an eye out for trouble and protect you, that's what they do.

Nobody ever writes or reads anything this long! LOL---I hope some people read this one though....

[buencamino2]

Ha! We have the pot calling the kettle black.

[robert angel]

Ha! We have the pot calling the kettle black.

No doubt about!

But it really is GOOD poop that applies to an awful lot of third world places--especially cities. It could be 'Manila 101'. Fortunately, where our house is--some 7000 islands south of Manila, if they hear you committed a crime--be it theft, rape, drugs, murder etc., IF they give you warning to 'leave town or else' and you don't--not too many days pass before a motorcycle comes up aside you, and a guy riding passenger whips out a 45 and blows you away, right then and there. They never seem to catch the shooter either.

Really cuts down on repeat crime.

What's really interesting is that the guy--the Mayor--the 'cowboy' of Davao Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte is now the front runner in the national elections for President of the whole Philippines

""Duterte, who has been dubbed "The Punisher" by Time magazine,has been criticized by human rights groups and by Amnesty International for tolerating extrajudicial killings of alleged criminals allegedly by the Davao death squads.Duterte has been heavily criticised by numerous organizations for condoning and even inciting murders to take place during his leadership. In the April 2009 UN General Assembly of the Human Rights Council, the UN report (Eleventh Session Agenda item 3, par 21) said, "The Mayor of Davao City has done nothing to prevent these killings, and his public comments suggest that he is, in fact, supportive." Human Rights Watch reported that in 2001-2002, Duterte appeared on local television and radio and announced the names of "criminals", some of whom were later executed. In July 2005 at a crime summit in the Manila Hotel, the politician said, "Summary execution of criminals remains the most effective way to crush kidnapping and illegal drugs".""

In 2009 Duterte said: "If you are doing an illegal activity in my city, if you are a criminal or part of a syndicate that preys on the innocent people of the city, for as long as I am the mayor, you are a legitimate target of assassination."

Duterte responding to the reported arrest and subsequent release of a notorious drug lord in Manila is quoted as saying: "Here in Davao, you can’t go out alive. You can go out, but inside a coffin. Is that what you call extra-judicial killing? Then I will just bring a drug lord to a judge and kill him there, that will no longer be extra-judicial."

Referring to the arrest of a suspected rice smuggler, Duterte spoke out in the state senate saying, "If this guy would go to Davao and starts to unload (smuggled rice)… I will gladly kill him."""

I'm glad his family---his children are succeeding him as Davao's Mayor.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rodrigo_Duterte

[Rschnb67]

Wow just when i was feeling safe thanks alot

[vikingo]

This has to be the longest post I ever wrote and after I finished writing down my thoughts and started making some corrections I thought I'd better copy and paste it to ms-word in case power goes out and wouldn't you know, that was the moment the screen went black and the ceiling fan stopped turning.
My mate called the power company and they told her they are doing some important maintenance today until 12 midday. You'd think they let people know through the local news station...
Anyway, I was sure I lost it all, remembering a post from Expatriado how he lost everything he wrote do to power outage. We left for a shopping center, too hot to stay in the house without power and when we returned I turned on the PL forum and miraculously everything I wrote was still there.

Don't understand what's going on this year, we are almost in the middle of December and it's still 34º (93ºF) every day, feels like 44º (111ºF) the weather report says. This has been an awful hot, drawn-out   summer on the coast and not much rain either.

[Rschnb67]

 If I have Jamie s translator pick me up from the airport go to his housing and not carelessly run around town late and drunk and flashing money I don't see how bad that can be I'm only going for a few days

[whitey]

No offense young man, but Colombia is for the fearless and adventurers and the women are tough. Many of them had a gun stuck in their face and being robbed of their cellphone or cash at one time or another. They don't wear real gold jewelry out in the street either, only silver and custom jewelry. They don't really like men who have that worried look on their face and constantly look over their shoulder. So act cool at all times. You might as well know, crime, even in Barranquilla is a daily occurrence. The local paper 'Al Día' features 3 to 5 murder cases every single day. Besides, this is the time of year robberies are taking off big time because the thieves need presents for their wife's and girlfriends, even for their mothers. The bastards even hold up buses and have every passenger hand over their valueables, happened here once again just a few days ago.
Last week a policeman out of uniform was held up in traffic by two guys on moto after he left the Panorama shopping center on his own moto, he had just withdrawn 2.400.000 pesos from the ATM for his daughters 15th birthday celebration, a big event in Latin American countries. Apparently he argued with the thieves and they shot him dead. A young man, mid thirties, leaving a family behind.
All I can tell you, leave your iPhone 6 in the States, get a cheap used phone that can handle WhatsApp,
if you have an iPhone 6 she wants you to buy her one too. Don't walk or be driven around with more than 200 mil pesos on your person, don't carry a wallet, an expensive watch, a passport or your drivers license on you. Leave your passport at the hotel and carry copies of important pages. Split up your bills and carry them in different pockets, no wallet! Get rid of that tourist look, look like you live here, be cool, calm and collected. If you do get robbed it's no big loss.


Almost all people here, good or bad, think a gringo is a walking money tree. The great majority of Colombian women are interested in gringos mainly for economical reasons. Your looks, manners and education come secondary. They want to improve their economic situation before anything else.
Also keep in mind that these chicks are very attached to their mom (most of them grew up without a dad) and little nieces and nephews so figure on several trips home for her during the year.
Women you meet under 40 either have a child or want one, be prepared for that. Her family will love you to death because they hope you'll  help them out financially. Learn to be hard-nosed; she'll respect you for that. But be very, very nice to her mom, her approval will make you or break you. Be prepared that her mom and often her best female friend will know every little detail of every argument you ever had with her.


She will spend hours and hours on the phone with them discussing every single event of the day and your name will come up in the conversation more times than you like.



Don't be too generous with your money or you create yourself a monster. These women have absolutely no conception of handling money wisely. You need to train them to avoid desaster.

The Northern barrios of Barranquilla are generally, but not always safe. The further South you go the more grief you could run into. Stay out of Soledad, 3 out of 4 murders happen there.
These criminals who may rob you are coldblooded killers and don't hesitate to pull the trigger.
Most of them have a rebel or military background and are handy with guns, don't anybody kid yourself.
I would not call them 'hijueputa' or 'malparido de una puta madre', as much as you would like to, even if it applies to them, refrain from using those words which you will learn first here on the coast, becouse you will insult their pride, just hand over your hard earned cash, your cheap phone and your Timex and be glad you are alive. Many times taxidrivers are in cohouts with robbers. They will get on the cellphone and inform their 'friends' who will suddenly enter the taxy as well and take you to the nearest ATM. Don't flag them down on the street, take registered taxis in front of shopping centers, hotels and the like.
Most crimes happen at night when the cockroaches come out. Not a good idea to walk the streets alone or with your girl at night if you are a greenhorn. Use ATM's in shopping centers, only make one withdrawal, then disappear in stores like you are spending the money. Don't leave right away for the outside. Try to blend in, Colombian men rarely wear shorts, dress like them, walk like you know where you're going, don't ever look helpless. be careful about asking Colombians for directions, they usually have no idea where places are but will give you directions anyway; it is considered rude here to say 'I don't know', so they invent something to not offend you.
If you ever end up at the beach, don't buy shrimp cocktails or the likes from the numerous vendors,
you may get very sick, happened to us once.
You are spending a huge shunk of money for this trip, hopefully you haven't paid for your entire accomodations in advance. Maybe you want to find more affordable and better accomodations after a few day's, talk to your girl about it, let her guide you in money matters. I't's also a good test to see if she is frugal or out to spend your last dime. Hopefully you haven't told her about your safety concerns and fears. Not a good idea. She knows her people better than you do and will keep an eye out for trouble and protect you, that's what they do.

All of the above ... gold, pure gold!

Even if you find one with a good paying job, she wants to quit working of course and travel with you. Now they no longer need visas for most European countries, so a trip to Paris, Rom or London would make their dreams come true.

This is where I have to start offering an alternate perspective and experience ... not just my own, but what I have observed among my gringo-colombiana and colombiano-colombiana friends.

First of all, I would love to quit my job and travel too ... who wouldn't?  The working colombianas I know fully expect to work and contribute to the household ... unless there is a mutual agreement that she will focus on the kids/house. 

If you're thinking about falling in love with a young attractive chick remember it would be insane to take her to the States. You wouldn't last longer longer than a few months or she would be so conceited from all the attention she is getting that she'll turn into an unbearable monster. Best knock her up right away, it will increase your chances to hang on to her.

This is the common wisdom among many who live in Colombia ... those of us who don't and are "successful" beg to differ.  Also depends greatly on the guy (is he a bit of a loser who doesn't have much to offer besides money and a better lifestyle), his ability to select an appropriate woman, and the difference in age.  With my wife and I, the difference is 13 years ... she's a fair bit younger but still more or less similar generation.  If a guy is over 35 and messing with a woman under 25 ... well, ya takes your chances.  There are exceptions if you are a stud like Fathertime!

These women can be very ill tempered and go into screaming fits at the drop of a hat and act an hour later like nothing happened, be prepared for that also. Also watch out for PMS, not a good time to argue with her.

Please ... this is a stereotype.  Sure there are women like this ... but plenty who aren't like that.  My wife for instance is the calmest woman I know, and she is barranquillera.

Don't concentrate on one chick exclusively, don't be a WOVO like Gato and I, or Innocent Vixen will call you an idiot, lol. Be sure you have a plan B if she turns out to be a disappointment. I can't get out of my skin, besides I don't know how I could keep several different women apart without making notes. But granted, it's not wise what I did.

People here know I am an advocate of WOVO, if it suits your personality, and if you have judgement an)d common sense.


But, if you are going to be a WOVO, I agree you should have a plan B ... and that can be as simple as ... if a romantic relationship doesn't work out, at least I will meet a nice friend to share a great vacation with.


If you are sinking your entire nest egg into one trip (either money-wise, time-wise, or both), then international dating and marriage isn't for you. 

[vikingo]

Wow just when i was feeling safe thanks alot

Dating in Colombia is a learning process and Colombia is not Disneyland, it's not for the timid, you need to be prepared and know what you are getting yourself into. We just try to give you some guidance so you will stay out of trouble.
If you do like your acquaintance you emailed with you will be back or you'll meet someone else you'll fall in love with. The worst that could happen to you is not knowing the risks. What I wrote is reality but keep in mind that most daily murders here are drug related. You don't seem the type who gets involved with that scourge. An other thing that could get you into trouble is dating a woman who failed to tell you about her jealous boyfriend or ex. Stay out of local politics, keep your nose clean and don't make enemies, follow our advise and you'll be alright. Everyone on this forum has survived Colombia, well, except one, Dennis. Remember to keep your woman in Colombia but your money outside Colombia and you won't have any regrets. It's a lot more economical to travel to Colombia on a regular basis than bringing her home and be taken to the cleaners or lose her to some guy who can provide her with a better lifestyle.
Maybe you should avoid big cities and look for a woman in Bucaramanga for example. Remember wherever she is from you'll be stuck in that city because that's were her family lives.
You've been in Mexico and survived, Mexico can be mighty dangerous too if you are at the wrong place at the wrong time.

[mambocowboy]

No offense young man, but Colombia is for the fearless and adventurers and the women are tough. Many of them had a gun stuck in their face and being robbed of their cellphone or cash at one time or another. They don't wear real gold jewelry out in the street either, only silver and custom jewelry. They don't really like men who have that worried look on their face and constantly look over their shoulder. So act cool at all times. You might as well know, crime, even in Barranquilla is a daily occurrence. The local paper 'Al Día' features 3 to 5 murder cases every single day. Besides, this is the time of year robberies are taking off big time because the thieves need presents for their wife's and girlfriends, even for their mothers. The bastards even hold up buses and have every passenger hand over their valueables, happened here once again just a few days ago.
Last week a policeman out of uniform was held up in traffic by two guys on moto after he left the Panorama shopping center on his own moto, he had just withdrawn 2.400.000 pesos from the ATM for his daughters 15th birthday celebration, a big event in Latin American countries. Apparently he argued with the thieves and they shot him dead. A young man, mid thirties, leaving a family behind.
All I can tell you, leave your iPhone 6 in the States, get a cheap used phone that can handle WhatsApp,
if you have an iPhone 6 she wants you to buy her one too. Don't walk or be driven around with more than 200 mil pesos on your person, don't carry a wallet, an expensive watch, a passport or your drivers license on you. Leave your passport at the hotel and carry copies of important pages. Split up your bills and carry them in different pockets, no wallet! Get rid of that tourist look, look like you live here, be cool, calm and collected. If you do get robbed it's no big loss.
Almost all people here, good or bad, think a gringo is a walking money tree. The great majority of Colombian women are interested in gringos mainly for economical reasons. Your looks, manners and education come secondary. They want to improve their economic situation before anything else. Even if you find one with a good paying job, she wants to quit working of course and travel with you. Now they no longer need visas for most European countries, so a trip to Paris, Rom or London would make their dreams come true.
If you're thinking about falling in love with a young attractive chick remember it would be insane to take her to the States. You wouldn't last longer longer than a few months or she would be so conceited from all the attention she is getting that she'll turn into an unbearable monster. Best knock her up right away, it will increase your chances to hang on to her.
Also keep in mind that these chicks are very attached to their mom (most of them grew up without a dad) and little nieces and nephews so figure on several trips home for her during the year.
Women you meet under 40 either have a child or want one, be prepared for that. Her family will love you to death because they hope you'll  help them out financially. Learn to be hard-nosed; she'll respect you for that. But be very, very nice to her mom, her approval will make you or break you. Be prepared that her mom and often her best female friend will know every little detail of every argument you ever had with her.
She will spend hours and hours on the phone with them discussing every single event of the day and your name will come up in the conversation more times than you like.
These women can be very ill tempered and go into screaming fits at the drop of a hat and act an hour later like nothing happened, be prepared for that also.
Also watch out for PMS, not a good time to argue with her.

Don't concentrate on one chick exclusively, don't be a WOVO like Gato and I, or Innocent Vixen will call you an idiot, lol. Be sure you have a plan B if she turns out to be a disappointment. I can't get out of my skin, besides I don't know how I could keep several different women apart without making notes. But granted, it's not wise what I did.

Don't be too generous with your money or you create yourself a monster. These women have absolutely no conception of handling money wisely. You need to train them to avoid desaster.

The Northern barrios of Barranquilla are generally, but not always safe. The further South you go the more grief you could run into. Stay out of Soledad, 3 out of 4 murders happen there.
These criminals who may rob you are coldblooded killers and don't hesitate to pull the trigger.
Most of them have a rebel or military background and are handy with guns, don't anybody kid yourself.
I would not call them 'hijueputa' or 'malparido de una puta madre', as much as you would like to, even if it applies to them, refrain from using those words which you will learn first here on the coast, becouse you will insult their pride, just hand over your hard earned cash, your cheap phone and your Timex and be glad you are alive. Many times taxidrivers are in cohouts with robbers. They will get on the cellphone and inform their 'friends' who will suddenly enter the taxy as well and take you to the nearest ATM. Don't flag them down on the street, take registered taxis in front of shopping centers, hotels and the like.
Most crimes happen at night when the cockroaches come out. Not a good idea to walk the streets alone or with your girl at night if you are a greenhorn. Use ATM's in shopping centers, only make one withdrawal, then disappear in stores like you are spending the money. Don't leave right away for the outside. Try to blend in, Colombian men rarely wear shorts, dress like them, walk like you know where you're going, don't ever look helpless. be careful about asking Colombians for directions, they usually have no idea where places are but will give you directions anyway; it is considered rude here to say 'I don't know', so they invent something to not offend you.
If you ever end up at the beach, don't buy shrimp cocktails or the likes from the numerous vendors,
you may get very sick, happened to us once.
You are spending a huge shunk of money for this trip, hopefully you haven't paid for your entire accomodations in advance. Maybe you want to find more affordable and better accomodations after a few day's, talk to your girl about it, let her guide you in money matters. I't's also a good test to see if she is frugal or out to spend your last dime. Hopefully you haven't told her about your safety concerns and fears. Not a good idea. She knows her people better than you do and will keep an eye out for trouble and protect you, that's what they do.

Alot of good stuff here. I did wovo and kept my cupid account active just in case. My wife was/is better looking in person than Skype.... My wife does truly miss working. She is not lazy as some are...the part about Colombians believing all gringos are rich is true....find a woman who values and protects your money rather than spending it all. If she offers to cook for you that is a good sign. If she can't cook you will spend a fortune eating out if you bring her to the States...