After totalling 8 weeks in Colombia, I have to say this advice is entirely on point, and I always channel my inner David when I'm here. Thanks for all your help with your videos, David!
@@Robertsdogs He has no idea but he is a major reason why I decided to come here, and after watching a "year or two" of his content I came MUCH better prepared, and to be completely honest left in tears and very, very, very humbled with my experience. It took only 3 months for me to return for another two weeks and celebrated my 40th birthday with the entire city on 'Dia de las Velitas'. I am just wrapping up my first remote work month here, and already eager to come back. David - thank you, beyond words, for what you do.
As a Paisa myself I agree with every point you made in this Video. Love the respect and Love you use to talk about Colombia even with all the flaws. Big Hug
Although I am Colombian, I find this piece of advice extremely useful, I have been living abroad for a while and at times forget all those "street malicia" preventions such as not "dar papaya" with your phone, not using street ATMs, and the wearing shorts and flip-flops thing 😂 I'm from Bucaramanga, and although it's a hot city, men there won't wear shorts and flip-flops like you would normally do during the summer in Australia or the US
I been to Medellin twice and one the most interesting tip is don't ever slam the car door! Close the car door easy but don't slam the door! All the other tips you mentioned i find to be very true as well. You just have to always realize that you are in a different culture when traveling overseas and that you need and try to blend in vs sticking out like a sore thumb for people to notice and people of the wrong element noticing you. Don't be trying to stand out, blend in so people hardly notice you is always the best way to go.
Your 100% right. Love Medellin but my host family always provided a guide for me anytime I went out into the city. Never had any problems. I love how polite and formal Colombian people are, especially in Medellin. Even when they are telling each other off or in a heated argument, they are very polite and formal about it. A cab once dropped me off in the wrong neighborhood late at night and I had to walk several blocks at night to my host families house, they were horrified that I walked through those neighborhoods alone . Love Medellin, that guide that my host family provided for my safety, she is now my wife! Love Medellin!!😊❤
Your comments about hygiene and cleanliness are very true. I was STUNNED by it. It's an obsession with them. Shoes, in particular. I have been to Medellin many times and I saw that EVERYONE has absolutely spotlessly clean shoes. Name-brand knock-offs are available and cheap, so EVERYBODY has new-looking shoes. My friends there wash their shoes almost every day. I have some comfortable old shoes that are a bit tattered. I was told to get rid of them. Its a minor things but an obvious cultural fixation.
I am a gringo that owns a house in Medellin and completely agree with you. I lived in NYC before so I think the biggest thing to take away is to just be aware of your surroundings all the time. It was the same way in NYC. There are always people that want your stuff more than you do. I think the phone thing might be a little bit much but also you could just walk towards the stores and use your phone. Don't use your phone near the street at all. And I never carry my wallet any way so it eliminates that from being taken. And if you are in a busy area, walk with your hands in your pockets. It is pretty simple. But also don't be paranoid that everyone is trying to steal from you because Colombians are amazing people and I bought a house there for a reason. Like David said, just try to blend in. Also, I wear shorts all the time because it does get warm in Medellin. Not work out shorts but nicer shorts and I have never felt out of place. But almost everyone does wear pants, I just get too hot to wear pants all the time! Great video, David!
@@michaelgermanovsky1793NY city is not as bad as people make it out to be just use common sense and you will be fine..lived the 25 years and never had an issue
Great advice. I read a ton of "don't do x" before visiting Colombia and almost didn't take my real phone. After being on the ground I'll say this: better to heed this advice and move with caution rather than ignoring it. Based on what you see, you can adjust accordingly. However some advice (like walking alone in certain areas) should never be ignored.
I dressed flashy in Poblano Park one night, I was targeted and my pocket was picked. Lost my iPhone as a result. The other points made here are quite accurate and I wished I viewed this video before my trip. That said, I still had a blast and met some really cool people. I plan to return to the BEAUTIFUL city of Medellin, except this time with better street smarts.
That's because for some reason in every "rich" areas (like Poblado, Floresta, Laureles etc) you could be robbed. If you check in those places (and obviously the downtown) you see more homless people and strange guys. But if you check the south like Envigado and Itagüí is more difficult get robbed, maybe is for the hood gangs, cause gangs don't fuck with thiefs, they kill thiefs already...
Thanks man for talking about Pablo Escobar. People from medellin are not proud of his violent legacy but many foreigners think we are because they only know the side of the story that workships the narco imaginery. Another tip I would like to include, especially to foreign men is: DON'T THINK ALL LOCAL WOMEN ARE GOING TO FALL IN LOVE OF YOU, seriously, there are tons of men who wrongly assume that colombian (paisa) women are going to choose them just because they are foreigners; yes, some of them may have that interest, especially those girls who walk alone with flashy clothes in the busiest sectors of the city (parque lleras or la 70 for example), but in general aspects local women are not interested in approaching foreigners by their own initiative.
Thank you for talking about foreigners mentioning Pablo Escobar. I am Colombian, and when the first and only thing you have to say it's Pablo Escobar, you really sound ignorant and even rude. Either learn something positive about Colombia or don't say anything at all.
Thank you David. All very helpful as I will be in medellin in 5 weeks for rhe first time. Just on the escobar thing. People like myself like the history of the situation rather than glorifying it. Coming from Ireland 🇮🇪 I know all about painful history. I'm sure there is a way of doing it without offending people and making it uncomfortable. I'm sure you will agree it's all about using common sense. Keep up the good work love from Ireland 🇮🇪
I traveled like a backpacker 8 years ago.. Was in Cartagena, but besides that I spent time in mocoa and traveling Colombia by bus. Beautiful country man. Big cities didn't interest me.. the jungle down the border was awesome!
In reference to the Escobar thing, I actually managed to ruin my chances with a Colombiana when I made a joke about Escobar, completely unaware of how sensitive the topic was. Rarely have I ever seen a smile turn into a frown so fast. This happened in Canada, btw.
I was guilty of the same thing. This was around the time when they released the show Narcos on Netflix. Since the show was extremely fascinating, Escobar’s name was the first thing that came out of my mouth when I found out one of my colleagues was Colombian. I saw the look of discomfort on her face immediately (I live in Canada as well lol). I think the issue is that outside of Colombia, Escobar is a glorified character in mainstream media. It fails to acknowledge the dark period in Colombia during his reign.
Very good advice. I have been to Colombia many times, I was a sailor in the pacific fleet and married to a Russian for 20 years. Colombians are basically honest and helpful. The 10% who are bad apples cannot be ignored.
Great advice David and I like your focused videos when giving advice and educational information. Do not give up on the old school walks and talks when showing us new cities and towns !!!!!!
I guess you have never been in Latinoamérica. I guess you are accustomed to the horrendous mass killings in USA. Sorry to say but it's safe to be in USA.. too many arms and too many disturbed around you
I am from Medellin, have lived there my entire life, and I can say every single thing this man says is 100% true. Great advise. I would add one last important advice: don not take a taxi in the streets. Use uber, or if you must take a taxi, call the taxi company so that they pick you up at your hotel. As a local I do take taxis in the street, but for tourists it can be dangerous or they can overcharge you easily. Whenever you take a taxi its best to ask in advance how much will the charge you (especially in the caribean cities like cartagena, as taxis often do not have the taxmeter).
You can wear nice watches and jewelry, just like you can in the United States. The issue is people not knowing how to move when wearing things like this, and not knowing places you can and can’t go. I live in Medellin, I’m from South Central Los Angeles, so my perspective is from someone who lives in Medellin, is not a local, and occasionally wears expensive jewelry and watches. When I decide to wear stuff like that, I’m: 1. Always in large groups 2. I always have a reservation 3. I’m in and out. In other words I’m never waiting in lines, I’m never wandering around aimlessly, and I’m never standing still. My group is always moving from point A to point B, moving with a purpose. 4. I’m never in places that common sense tells me that I should not be 5. I don’t stop to talk to people, women included, and my group does not allow people to approach me without resistance 6. I’m never on Instagram live, and I’m never posting things on Instagram until AFTER I have already left. 7. If I’m in a club, I leave before the club closes. Wandering around at night with hundreds of people is silly. You leave early before everyone else in the club leaves to avoid the crowd. 8. It is possible to get a gun license in Colombia. Not as easy as in the United States, but it’s possible. Talk to your lawyer 9. There are companies that offer armed security that follow you around for 12 hours. It’s like $150 per guard. 10. Always pay for VIP in any venue you attend, always tip bouncers, always be respectful, and never be floating around in general population. Watch your drinks. If you’re from the streets, or if you’ve been living a flashy lifestyle for a while, you already know all of this stuff. If you’re not willing to undergo all of these precautions, leave your Patek at home.
@@okyouknowwhatever the great thing about life is you’re free to choose to live yours modestly if you so choose. Hopefully your modest lifestyle is by choice, and not by necessity.
@@xosupermarc As a European, I've never been to Colombia, but wouldn't mind visit. Closest I've been to culture wise/geography wise is Mexico, which had both pros and cons. I'm not super big on visiting cities though, especially not big inland cities, probably more interested in more coastal or rural places.
Thanks David, I'm living in Medellin now. I'd definitely add one to this list I learned real fast: close the taxi/uber doors as gently as possible!! I've never experienced this anywhere but the drivers are super sensitive about this, I closed the door normally on an Uber driver and I could tell the dude's blood was boiling. Some drivers won't even let a gringo close the door themselves they put their hand out to stop you. So strange but one of those things to know, close the door super quietly and gently to not offend the drivers. Also just have to say I love how Medellin people dress, so cool and fresh but not pretentious and yeah everyone's hygiene is immaculate. I've been traveling for a while and it cleaned me up real quick haha.
First time I was there I shut the door in a cab as I normally would my own car. The friends in the car were MF'ing me the driver was pissed. I was looking at them wondering what the hell happened. You only do that one time down there. 🤣😂🤣😂🤣
@@ManicMindTrickthe vehicle is a huge investment and they figure that treatment could do damage in the long term is my guess. Also it's their baby, their environment and this is viewed as inconsiderate thus disrespecting them and their livelihood. I'm surprised that you don't get it...
I just left Colombia. I totally agree with you that nobody should mention escobor. Here is the problem, in many souvenir shops you see a lot of escobor t- shirts, posters, etc. So a lot of tourists think escobar is a hero to a lot of Colombians.
I noticed that too in Medellin. It's weird that they would promote that image to tourists when as a country they're trying to distance themselves from his legacy. That was a real head scratcher for me.
Nice info David as usual. Thanks!!!! Maybe you could also do a short video of about Colombian Pesos... (kind of a quick breakdown of the "APPROXIMATE" value of each of the coins, paper notes, etc... I know that the exchange rates fluctuate, but like I said "APPROXIMATE" value of each, would be greatly appreciated.. what they look like, etc)? Either way, very informative! Thanks!!
Good about the telephone part, although useful. It's good to be aware that you make yourself "vulnerable" when taking out the telephone. Myself I actually doing the oposite thing when needing to check something. Looking for a more quiet spot (in the crowd, so not in some kind of abandoned alley) and possible put my back against a wall so nobody can approach me from the back and I can still maintain a 180 field of my surroundings when checking my phone. When I see someone comes close or in my space, I put my phone away. Although also depending on the type of person... Same with taking pictures, finding a spot with no direct people near (let's say a circle of 2 to 3m (not always possible of course). So you will notice the people who come close and still having time to scan the situation/person or put away your phone/camera.
Great advice! As for cell phone use; I always go into a store or restaurant (preferably) and order something small or coffee and do my cell phone stuff...and then head out. Cost me maybe $2.00 but a lot cheaper than a new phone.🙏🏼☮🙏🏼
Great tips as always David. Us Americans take a lot of these things for granted. But no matter where you are you need to be diligent in your surroundings.
I just got back from Medellin on Sunday. I saw a lot of people wearing shorts because for 2 days it was unusually hot and humid. The girl I was there with said it reminded her of Cali and she didn't like it. To the point this was also after normal work hours. The one day it was very brutal with heat and humidity and my shirt was stained with sweat after about an hour. A lot of people walking the dogs and things like that were wearing shorts. It was the worst couple of days I had there and thankfully it finally rained and dropped the temperature and humidity. The advice you give is good and also applies to any travel anywhere. It is all about knowing your surroundings. Keeping your cards and stuff in your front pocket and having an RFID wallet. I do that in Europe, Mexico and South America. I am surprised when I see people with the phones out all of the time. Just enjoy the moment. I know about the Escobar stuff luckily the girl that I go there for knows I am just truly interested and I only talk to her about it. I grew up when all of that was happening. I am not saying anything good or bad. She grew up in Cali we all know how that went. You would really be surprised about common sense things that nobody knows or realizes. It really doesn't matter where you go. THAT COUNTRY LAW AND LANGUAGE APPLIES.
It was driving me crazy cuz one of your videos you talked about learning Spanish, but your "American" accent is a "US Hispanic accent" & I kept second guessing myself, espeecially when you said you were from Texas. I'm glad my "accent ear" wasn't off. I *really* *really* appreciate the tips about how to use the phone & where to break your bigger bills.
I found a wife for the night at parque lleras 😂 but seriously watch out for those woman there. They will try and rob you or maybe drug you when you are in those tourist area
The reason why we don't take our shoes off is because most houses don't have carpet, so for us the floor is dirty. It really has nothing to do with being polite. We do clean the floor of course, but in our minds it is still dirty and we have the believe that you would get sick if you walk barefoot. Now if you go to a house that has carpet, I would suggest you to ask before entering the house. Just in case. Regarding the Escobar topic. This is a very delicate subject. If you are so curious that you need to ask a question, do it in a respectful manner. if you cannot do this, then forget about it and google your question instead. Very nice video.
I appreciate your advice. I have been to Medellin 11 times over 3 years for a month at a time. I've never had any trouble or felt unsafe there, however, I avoided the known unsafe areas. The central market area is considered somewhat unsafe due to the crowds there, particularly during December (La Navidad), but I have never had any issues there in many hours of walking and shopping. I love Medellin. My experiences with the people, the cab drivers, the small shops and restaurants have always been positive. It's a wonderful place. There may be a lot of petty crimes, but I have never experienced it.
@@natalyvalenciabula it must depend on the region. My family is from the Caribbean region of Colombia and people wear sandals and shorts. I mean it’s hot af in the Caribbean region, it’s ridiculous to be all covered up there. My mom always said that people from the Caribbean region can tell who’s from Bogota or Medellin because they wear closed toed shoes to the beach or sandals with socks🤣 that’s a no no for costeños. We are beach Caribbean people… that’s ridiculous.
This is a great video, I do think flipflops depends where you are and if you're a girl, when I go Colombia I always wear my chanclas or sandals and its fine, I blend in but that's also because I dress the part in blending in also. Very important!
Very good points David! I learned many of things from my ex and her friends in Bogota and some the hard way. The shoes thing okay that depends. I met many people that don't wear their shoes they wear outdoors inside, but you should have your chanclas on (flip flops) and with socks. If you are just visiting and not staying over then yeah I would leave the shoes on. This goes for Mexico too and I'm not sure but I'm going to say many latin american countries. (Somebody correct me if I'm wrong here). Regards to Pablo Escobar subject. It has come up more often than not for me in Medellin but I always let that person bring it up first and be respectful of their opinions or questions about what you know. some people still love to gossip about it but they generally have hard feelings and have family members that were victimized by the cartels back in those days. Keep up the great videos!
Even in London they steal your phone if you walk with it on your hands. In other words in Colombia and in most parts of the world you need to learn how not to give papaya.
It is interesting that even at a store in the Bogota Airport the clerk balked at me using a 50000 Peso bill, and asked me if I had something smaller. If you want to understand how much more of a depressed economy it is there, picture people thinking a $12 bill is too large to use at the airport in New York.
Colombia lifestyle is very similar to Asia. Even the buildings in major metropolitan areas have similarities to some in Asia - especially Asian areas that used to be colonized by either Portugal or Spain.
Agreed, I went to the Philippines and I felt at home, as a Colombian Livin in east Europe I felt recharged once I came back from there, people are nice as my people, the food in incredible, the cathedrals are similar, I just loved the little words in Spanish I could recognize when the locals were speaking, I felt so happy.
About the sandals, ladies wear fancy dress sandals and it is ok. To go to the corner store you can wear cheap sandals but that's it. Inside the house, if you are visiting someone you keep your shoes but if you are spending the night they either borrow you sandals or you wear your own
If you are visiting Cartagena or Barranquilla, a coastal city, it is acceptable to wear shorts. But definitely not in Medellin. Also don’t have an expensive cell phone out. Have situational awareness.
I use street ATMs all the time in Medellín without issue, but the rules I have are 1) good neighborhood 2) daytime hours, 3) other people around, and 4) preferably one that has a private lockable enclosure. Much quicker than going into a mall, especially if you're on a bike like I often am when moving around town.
i don't recommend street atms as they can easily have debit card/CC readers that steal data... you'd probably never see it unless you know what you're looking for.
I have done it too and without issue, but for a new person it's not a good idea. If you know the area and/or have someone with you that can keep watch that's always a plus and definitely scope it out first and see if anyone is kinda hanging around that looks sketchy.
Great advice! Been there 6x now. Definitely need to watch your back out there. Medellin is definitely the place to go though. Bogota is a little sketchy and Cartagena is super sketchy. Getting followed constantly out there. Colombia is an amazing place but don’t get too comfortable out there and be respectful to the locals.
You don't go down to Colombia to meet a woman from there unless you already know her well, which means getting to know her, whom she is, having something in common...etc.- Establishing all this at a distance first... That alone can take time, possibly never going beyond that... Then _IF_ you both are still interested, it's better to meet in a neutral country or place... Like you said, a Colombian woman can be dangerous if taken lightly!
Never thought about the bank advice. I have exclusively used ATMs in the street. But typically during the day when the bank is open, full of people, and there's a security guard outside of the bank. The VERY few times I used street ATMs at night was in crowded places. But I was nervous the whole time.
I would also say that I would buy a phone there also. From my safety when you go overseas, I bought a phone there. 1. If you take your personal cellphone to another country, they will know automatically they have a tourist because every cellphone has software to run under the country code. 2. The best part is that when you buy the phone there its automatically set up for their network. Just my own opinion. Great video.
In Medellin maybe, but on the coast the locals wear shorts when going out in the evening. A Colombian guy was telling me it's way more appropriate. That was in Cartagena where of course it can still be boiling hot at night. Obviously this vid is about Medallo though haha
That's one thing that was always crazy to me in Colombia. If it's hot as shit outside, why logically would you not dress as lightly as possible? I'll never understand fashion over practicality.
Yeah it's just a cultural difference. One thing david didn't mention in this video but has in others is that the shorts are for the beach. If you're in Cartagena, Santa Marta, San Andres then yeah wear those shorts, but in the city you won't see people doing that. Not only in Colombia but other latin american countries...again it's the culture. Something I wasn't used to either. I'm from the south in the US and we *always* wore shorts in the summer, so that was a big change for me as well.
David just wanted to say thanks. I am hoping to visit Medellin in Oct or Nov with the idea of seeing if this is someplace I would be willing to move to. Living in Denver my rent is more than it would cost me per month down there. Your videos have been a great help and why I just subscribed to you on Patreon.
I wear shorts and a T shirt everyday in Southern California. It depends on the area of the world you live that dictates how you dress. I travel to Mexico and wear a old pair of blue jeans and a long sleeve collar shirt and I blend in with the locals.
I have worn sandles and shorts for 4 yrs. every day. But at night I get pants on if I go out! I'm from CA and AZ and hard to drop old habits. I'm super lucky I've never had anything happen to me. I have spent most of my time in Laureles just moved to Belen last month! A little more paisa here and like it. But when I lived in Laureles I was in the heart of Avenida Jarden Restaurant area ! Pablo is an interesting topic. Some people paisas love him and some don't But why take the chance till you know where they have it! The shoes on in Medellin is a carpet thing! lol! Good tips overall! Head is on a swivel but not in an obvious way!
After totalling 8 weeks in Colombia, I have to say this advice is entirely on point, and I always channel my inner David when I'm here. Thanks for all your help with your videos, David!
I love it, channeling your "inner David"
@@Robertsdogs He has no idea but he is a major reason why I decided to come here, and after watching a "year or two" of his content I came MUCH better prepared, and to be completely honest left in tears and very, very, very humbled with my experience. It took only 3 months for me to return for another two weeks and celebrated my 40th birthday with the entire city on 'Dia de las Velitas'. I am just wrapping up my first remote work month here, and already eager to come back. David - thank you, beyond words, for what you do.
What about nice shirt and pants
As a Paisa myself I agree with every point you made in this Video. Love the respect and Love you use to talk about Colombia even with all the flaws. Big Hug
Nah hes a sex tourist no love on my end
What’s paisa?
It's a nickname for the people born in that specific region (Coffee-Mountain region)
@@3-methylindole730
Paisa is the term how we call ourselves the people of the coffee region that includes Antioquia, Caldas and Risaralda.
Although I am Colombian, I find this piece of advice extremely useful, I have been living abroad for a while and at times forget all those "street malicia" preventions such as not "dar papaya" with your phone, not using street ATMs, and the wearing shorts and flip-flops thing 😂 I'm from Bucaramanga, and although it's a hot city, men there won't wear shorts and flip-flops like you would normally do during the summer in Australia or the US
I been to Medellin twice and one the most interesting tip is don't ever slam the car door! Close the car door easy but don't slam the door! All the other tips you mentioned i find to be very true as well. You just have to always realize that you are in a different culture when traveling overseas and that you need and try to blend in vs sticking out like a sore thumb for people to notice and people of the wrong element noticing you. Don't be trying to stand out, blend in so people hardly notice you is always the best way to go.
Your 100% right. Love Medellin but my host family always provided a guide for me anytime I went out into the city. Never had any problems. I love how polite and formal Colombian people are, especially in Medellin. Even when they are telling each other off or in a heated argument, they are very polite and formal about it.
A cab once dropped me off in the wrong neighborhood late at night and I had to walk several blocks at night to my host families house, they were horrified that I walked through those neighborhoods alone . Love Medellin, that guide that my host family provided for my safety, she is now my wife! Love Medellin!!😊❤
You had a host family?
Your comments about hygiene and cleanliness are very true. I was STUNNED by it. It's an obsession with them. Shoes, in particular. I have been to Medellin many times and I saw that EVERYONE has absolutely spotlessly clean shoes. Name-brand knock-offs are available and cheap, so EVERYBODY has new-looking shoes. My friends there wash their shoes almost every day. I have some comfortable old shoes that are a bit tattered. I was told to get rid of them. Its a minor things but an obvious cultural fixation.
I am a gringo that owns a house in Medellin and completely agree with you. I lived in NYC before so I think the biggest thing to take away is to just be aware of your surroundings all the time. It was the same way in NYC. There are always people that want your stuff more than you do. I think the phone thing might be a little bit much but also you could just walk towards the stores and use your phone. Don't use your phone near the street at all. And I never carry my wallet any way so it eliminates that from being taken. And if you are in a busy area, walk with your hands in your pockets. It is pretty simple. But also don't be paranoid that everyone is trying to steal from you because Colombians are amazing people and I bought a house there for a reason. Like David said, just try to blend in. Also, I wear shorts all the time because it does get warm in Medellin. Not work out shorts but nicer shorts and I have never felt out of place. But almost everyone does wear pants, I just get too hot to wear pants all the time! Great video, David!
NYC will have to choose one day either it will arm it's residents or get stricter on security.
Its ridicule not to wear shorts T-shirt I’m disappointed
@@michaelgermanovsky1793NY city is not as bad as people make it out to be just use common sense and you will be fine..lived the 25 years and never had an issue
Great advice. I read a ton of "don't do x" before visiting Colombia and almost didn't take my real phone. After being on the ground I'll say this: better to heed this advice and move with caution rather than ignoring it.
Based on what you see, you can adjust accordingly. However some advice (like walking alone in certain areas) should never be ignored.
Another tip: Don't slam the taxi car door.
great tip! This is very true, I forgot to mention it.
Great tip and I was guilty of that during my first trip
They really don’t like that 💩😂
dude cab drivers get really mad
Facts 🤣😂🤣
I dressed flashy in Poblano Park one night, I was targeted and my pocket was picked. Lost my iPhone as a result. The other points made here are quite accurate and I wished I viewed this video before my trip. That said, I still had a blast and met some really cool people. I plan to return to the BEAUTIFUL city of Medellin, except this time with better street smarts.
That's because for some reason in every "rich" areas (like Poblado, Floresta, Laureles etc) you could be robbed. If you check in those places (and obviously the downtown) you see more homless people and strange guys. But if you check the south like Envigado and Itagüí is more difficult get robbed, maybe is for the hood gangs, cause gangs don't fuck with thiefs, they kill thiefs already...
David, like always, great advises.. we need more visitors like you in Medellin... humble, good attitude, good vibes...
Thanks man for talking about Pablo Escobar. People from medellin are not proud of his violent legacy but many foreigners think we are because they only know the side of the story that workships the narco imaginery.
Another tip I would like to include, especially to foreign men is: DON'T THINK ALL LOCAL WOMEN ARE GOING TO FALL IN LOVE OF YOU, seriously, there are tons of men who wrongly assume that colombian (paisa) women are going to choose them just because they are foreigners; yes, some of them may have that interest, especially those girls who walk alone with flashy clothes in the busiest sectors of the city (parque lleras or la 70 for example), but in general aspects local women are not interested in approaching foreigners by their own initiative.
Very true
Thank you for talking about foreigners mentioning Pablo Escobar. I am Colombian, and when the first and only thing you have to say it's Pablo Escobar, you really sound ignorant and even rude. Either learn something positive about Colombia or don't say anything at all.
I agree
i saw lot of colombian girls with Escobar tattoo ? so why foreigners are rude ??
@@ciboac not sure what kinda girls your are talking about, but most regular decent people don’t want to be associated with him.
@@Black-Circle There you go
@@Black-Circle very close to PS
Thank you David. All very helpful as I will be in medellin in 5 weeks for rhe first time. Just on the escobar thing. People like myself like the history of the situation rather than glorifying it. Coming from Ireland 🇮🇪 I know all about painful history. I'm sure there is a way of doing it without offending people and making it uncomfortable. I'm sure you will agree it's all about using common sense. Keep up the good work love from Ireland 🇮🇪
I traveled like a backpacker 8 years ago.. Was in Cartagena, but besides that I spent time in mocoa and traveling Colombia by bus. Beautiful country man. Big cities didn't interest me.. the jungle down the border was awesome!
In reference to the Escobar thing, I actually managed to ruin my chances with a Colombiana when I made a joke about Escobar, completely unaware of how sensitive the topic was. Rarely have I ever seen a smile turn into a frown so fast. This happened in Canada, btw.
I was guilty of the same thing. This was around the time when they released the show Narcos on Netflix. Since the show was extremely fascinating, Escobar’s name was the first thing that came out of my mouth when I found out one of my colleagues was Colombian. I saw the look of discomfort on her face immediately (I live in Canada as well lol).
I think the issue is that outside of Colombia, Escobar is a glorified character in mainstream media. It fails to acknowledge the dark period in Colombia during his reign.
@HISHAM931 In some Barrios that Escobar constructed its the opposite u can't speak bad on Escobar or they will hurt u
What was the joke about?
She wasn't worth it! haha
@@TimeStalling Rather someone joking about such stuff is not worth for a Colombian
Very good advice. I have been to Colombia many times, I was a sailor in the pacific fleet and married to a Russian for 20 years. Colombians are basically honest and helpful. The 10% who are bad apples cannot be ignored.
Great advice David and I like your focused videos when giving advice and educational information. Do not give up on the old school walks and talks when showing us new cities and towns !!!!!!
After watched so much your video I ll not go to Colombia. You might saved my life
I guess you have never been in Latinoamérica. I guess you are accustomed to the horrendous mass killings in USA. Sorry to say but it's safe to be in USA.. too many arms and too many disturbed around you
@@mariabaier3080 my family live in Chico Bogotá I never go out off chico and I wanted to Visit this year. I won't
I am from Medellin, have lived there my entire life, and I can say every single thing this man says is 100% true. Great advise. I would add one last important advice: don not take a taxi in the streets. Use uber, or if you must take a taxi, call the taxi company so that they pick you up at your hotel. As a local I do take taxis in the street, but for tourists it can be dangerous or they can overcharge you easily. Whenever you take a taxi its best to ask in advance how much will the charge you (especially in the caribean cities like cartagena, as taxis often do not have the taxmeter).
You can wear nice watches and jewelry, just like you can in the United States. The issue is people not knowing how to move when wearing things like this, and not knowing places you can and can’t go. I live in Medellin, I’m from South Central Los Angeles, so my perspective is from someone who lives in Medellin, is not a local, and occasionally wears expensive jewelry and watches. When I decide to wear stuff like that, I’m:
1. Always in large groups
2. I always have a reservation
3. I’m in and out. In other words I’m never waiting in lines, I’m never wandering around aimlessly, and I’m never standing still. My group is always moving from point A to point B, moving with a purpose.
4. I’m never in places that common sense tells me that I should not be
5. I don’t stop to talk to people, women included, and my group does not allow people to approach me without resistance
6. I’m never on Instagram live, and I’m never posting things on Instagram until AFTER I have already left.
7. If I’m in a club, I leave before the club closes. Wandering around at night with hundreds of people is silly. You leave early before everyone else in the club leaves to avoid the crowd.
8. It is possible to get a gun license in Colombia. Not as easy as in the United States, but it’s possible. Talk to your lawyer
9. There are companies that offer armed security that follow you around for 12 hours. It’s like $150 per guard.
10. Always pay for VIP in any venue you attend, always tip bouncers, always be respectful, and never be floating around in general population. Watch your drinks.
If you’re from the streets, or if you’ve been living a flashy lifestyle for a while, you already know all of this stuff. If you’re not willing to undergo all of these precautions, leave your Patek at home.
Literally just sums me up, excellent but logical advice bro, shame a lot of people don’t use common sense or universal laws 👍
Jesus what a long list, I fell asleep trying to read all of that. Good thing I'm a modest person who don't fancy bling bling.
@@okyouknowwhatever the great thing about life is you’re free to choose to live yours modestly if you so choose. Hopefully your modest lifestyle is by choice, and not by necessity.
@@xosupermarc As a European, I've never been to Colombia, but wouldn't mind visit. Closest I've been to culture wise/geography wise is Mexico, which had both pros and cons. I'm not super big on visiting cities though, especially not big inland cities, probably more interested in more coastal or rural places.
@@xosupermarcI’m a 🥷. If I walk around with my katakana 🗡️ and Nunchuks, will I be a target for robbery?
Thanks David, I'm living in Medellin now. I'd definitely add one to this list I learned real fast: close the taxi/uber doors as gently as possible!! I've never experienced this anywhere but the drivers are super sensitive about this, I closed the door normally on an Uber driver and I could tell the dude's blood was boiling. Some drivers won't even let a gringo close the door themselves they put their hand out to stop you. So strange but one of those things to know, close the door super quietly and gently to not offend the drivers. Also just have to say I love how Medellin people dress, so cool and fresh but not pretentious and yeah everyone's hygiene is immaculate. I've been traveling for a while and it cleaned me up real quick haha.
What's up with that? Why are they so sensitive about closing the doors hard?
First time I was there I shut the door in a cab as I normally would my own car. The friends in the car were MF'ing me the driver was pissed. I was looking at them wondering what the hell happened. You only do that one time down there. 🤣😂🤣😂🤣
@@ManicMindTrickthe vehicle is a huge investment and they figure that treatment could do damage in the long term is my guess. Also it's their baby, their environment and this is viewed as inconsiderate thus disrespecting them and their livelihood. I'm surprised that you don't get it...
@@jamespollock11 Can closing the car door fast cause damage though? And I'm not talking slamming the door shut full force but with a reasonable speed.
Was in Medellin for six weeks.
Spot On advice.
The 50 000 pesos advice is a big fact!
yeah, especially if you go somewhere early and a small mom and pop, don't expect them to have change if you only have a 50k billete.
I just left Colombia. I totally agree with you that nobody should mention escobor. Here is the problem, in many souvenir shops you see a lot of escobor t- shirts, posters, etc. So a lot of tourists think escobar is a hero to a lot of Colombians.
I noticed that too in Medellin. It's weird that they would promote that image to tourists when as a country they're trying to distance themselves from his legacy. That was a real head scratcher for me.
Your video almost made me cry! You are on point, I never want to hear Escobar or drugs. Need to share your video with every foreign I know… 🤎
Since I was a teenager living in Bogota my grandfather taught me to always be aware of my surroundings.
Nice info David as usual. Thanks!!!! Maybe you could also do a short video of about Colombian Pesos... (kind of a quick breakdown of the "APPROXIMATE" value of each of the coins, paper notes, etc... I know that the exchange rates fluctuate, but like I said "APPROXIMATE" value of each, would be greatly appreciated.. what they look like, etc)? Either way, very informative! Thanks!!
Thank you for the tips David, I'll be visiting Medellin for the first time next month. 😁
Good about the telephone part, although useful. It's good to be aware that you make yourself "vulnerable" when taking out the telephone.
Myself I actually doing the oposite thing when needing to check something. Looking for a more quiet spot (in the crowd, so not in some kind of abandoned alley) and possible put my back against a wall so nobody can approach me from the back and I can still maintain a 180 field of my surroundings when checking my phone. When I see someone comes close or in my space, I put my phone away. Although also depending on the type of person...
Same with taking pictures, finding a spot with no direct people near (let's say a circle of 2 to 3m (not always possible of course). So you will notice the people who come close and still having time to scan the situation/person or put away your phone/camera.
Thank You David for the informative, pleasant to watch and no -typical RUclips- personal show-off video.
Great video David.. good advice which actually works in pretty much all of latin america.
Great advice! As for cell phone use; I always go into a store or restaurant (preferably) and order something small or coffee and do my cell phone stuff...and then head out. Cost me maybe $2.00 but a lot cheaper than a new phone.🙏🏼☮🙏🏼
Great tips as always David. Us Americans take a lot of these things for granted. But no matter where you are you need to be diligent in your surroundings.
Super helpful! Excited to visit Medellín later this month 🤪
LoL 🤣 Pablo Escobar! If I ever visit, I'll ask if they know David from youtube .
I like seeing your background when you walk around the streets
I love to be in Colombia but the crime is a concern for me, thank you for your videos...
Usa has lots of crime
Thanks for info David
Much appreciated 🙌🏻
I just got back from Medellin on Sunday. I saw a lot of people wearing shorts because for 2 days it was unusually hot and humid. The girl I was there with said it reminded her of Cali and she didn't like it. To the point this was also after normal work hours. The one day it was very brutal with heat and humidity and my shirt was stained with sweat after about an hour. A lot of people walking the dogs and things like that were wearing shorts. It was the worst couple of days I had there and thankfully it finally rained and dropped the temperature and humidity. The advice you give is good and also applies to any travel anywhere. It is all about knowing your surroundings. Keeping your cards and stuff in your front pocket and having an RFID wallet. I do that in Europe, Mexico and South America. I am surprised when I see people with the phones out all of the time. Just enjoy the moment. I know about the Escobar stuff luckily the girl that I go there for knows I am just truly interested and I only talk to her about it. I grew up when all of that was happening. I am not saying anything good or bad. She grew up in Cali we all know how that went. You would really be surprised about common sense things that nobody knows or realizes. It really doesn't matter where you go. THAT COUNTRY LAW AND LANGUAGE APPLIES.
It was driving me crazy cuz one of your videos you talked about learning Spanish, but your "American" accent is a "US Hispanic accent" & I kept second guessing myself, espeecially when you said you were from Texas. I'm glad my "accent ear" wasn't off.
I *really* *really* appreciate the tips about how to use the phone & where to break your bigger bills.
1) Don’t go to Parque Lleras looking for a wife lmao
😅🤣
Why?
I found a wife for the night at parque lleras 😂 but seriously watch out for those woman there. They will try and rob you or maybe drug you when you are in those tourist area
@@gamesgamesvlo9744 daycare workers 🤫
I love Colombia and its people. I honestly felt so connected and at home there.
The reason why we don't take our shoes off is because most houses don't have carpet, so for us the floor is dirty. It really has nothing to do with being polite. We do clean the floor of course, but in our minds it is still dirty and we have the believe that you would get sick if you walk barefoot. Now if you go to a house that has carpet, I would suggest you to ask before entering the house. Just in case.
Regarding the Escobar topic. This is a very delicate subject. If you are so curious that you need to ask a question, do it in a respectful manner. if you cannot do this, then forget about it and google your question instead.
Very nice video.
I appreciate your advice. I have been to Medellin 11 times over 3 years for a month at a time. I've never had any trouble or felt unsafe there, however, I avoided the known unsafe areas. The central market area is considered somewhat unsafe due to the crowds there, particularly during December (La Navidad), but I have never had any issues there in many hours of walking and shopping. I love Medellin. My experiences with the people, the cab drivers, the small shops and restaurants have always been positive. It's a wonderful place. There may be a lot of petty crimes, but I have never experienced it.
So glad I found this channel
One video here is worth 1000 of the other content on RUclips
Great tips . Thank you for uploading this. Keep this good content coming . 👍🏼
I'm an Australian, we wear shorts and sandles everywhere, I felt totally comfortable there! No issues at all.
I am a colombian living in Australia and in colombia people could think you are gay if you wear shorts like Australians do
Brazilian here..wore shorts all the time too..no problems at all.
@@natalyvalenciabula it must depend on the region. My family is from the Caribbean region of Colombia and people wear sandals and shorts. I mean it’s hot af in the Caribbean region, it’s ridiculous to be all covered up there. My mom always said that people from the Caribbean region can tell who’s from Bogota or Medellin because they wear closed toed shoes to the beach or sandals with socks🤣 that’s a no no for costeños. We are beach Caribbean people… that’s ridiculous.
Colombian here, we might not point your sandals out but we're gonna think it's disrespectful
@natalyvalenciabula such an odd thing to say..
This is a great video, I do think flipflops depends where you are and if you're a girl, when I go Colombia I always wear my chanclas or sandals and its fine, I blend in but that's also because I dress the part in blending in also. Very important!
Very good points David! I learned many of things from my ex and her friends in Bogota and some the hard way. The shoes thing okay that depends. I met many people that don't wear their shoes they wear outdoors inside, but you should have your chanclas on (flip flops) and with socks. If you are just visiting and not staying over then yeah I would leave the shoes on. This goes for Mexico too and I'm not sure but I'm going to say many latin american countries. (Somebody correct me if I'm wrong here). Regards to Pablo Escobar subject. It has come up more often than not for me in Medellin but I always let that person bring it up first and be respectful of their opinions or questions about what you know. some people still love to gossip about it but they generally have hard feelings and have family members that were victimized by the cartels back in those days. Keep up the great videos!
Even in London they steal your phone if you walk with it on your hands. In other words in Colombia and in most parts of the world you need to learn how not to give papaya.
Bro I bench 225 lbs. I wish someone would try. I don't care if it's Colombia or England. You test me, you getting your ass kicked!!!
@@Bringmeoneofthosechickens in Colombia they stab you if you resist.
@@JohannaVenturoli Bro did you not read. I can bench 225 lbs!
I am from Brazil and came across your channel . Amazing videos !
I'm going to colombia next month. A little bit nervous about it, because there's an advisory right now, to reconsider travel.
Just landed in medillin.. viva colombia 🇨🇴
How did it go
It is interesting that even at a store in the Bogota Airport the clerk balked at me using a 50000 Peso bill, and asked me if I had something smaller. If you want to understand how much more of a depressed economy it is there, picture people thinking a $12 bill is too large to use at the airport in New York.
thanks for the tips, you guys live there you know best. not stepping foot in difficult country or city to be in.
Solid advice. I saw a woman on the phone with her back to the street and a dude on a Pulsar snagged it out of her hand. It happened so fast.
Love your vids bro. I use this when I’m in Medellin
Colombia lifestyle is very similar to Asia.
Even the buildings in major metropolitan areas have similarities to some in Asia - especially Asian areas that used to be colonized by either Portugal or Spain.
Maybe just the buildings, but lifestyles? Not at all.
Agreed, I went to the Philippines and I felt at home, as a Colombian Livin in east Europe I felt recharged once I came back from there, people are nice as my people, the food in incredible, the cathedrals are similar, I just loved the little words in Spanish I could recognize when the locals were speaking, I felt so happy.
I'm from South Texas (SPI/RGV) and am going to Medellin for month. It would be awesome to learn so many more things from you.
This was so helpful. Especially the ATM tip and using smaller denominations of cash.
About the sandals, ladies wear fancy dress sandals and it is ok. To go to the corner store you can wear cheap sandals but that's it. Inside the house, if you are visiting someone you keep your shoes but if you are spending the night they either borrow you sandals or you wear your own
Depends where you go. If youre gonna be at el poblado its different. Compared to iguana or strato 1 barrios😀
Good vid, I’m headed to Medellín for the first time in a couple of days. Thank you for the tips!
If you are visiting Cartagena or Barranquilla, a coastal city, it is acceptable to wear shorts. But definitely not in Medellin. Also don’t have an expensive cell phone out. Have situational awareness.
Im glad you affirmed about how I felt about sandals
South Texas here planning a trip thanks for your content
Hola David , . How are you, greetings , here from Plantation, fl
Good job 👍
Davie here buddy!
I see your getting use to living in Brazil. That colloquial way of saying good bye at the end say it.
This is a great, concise on do's and don'ts in Colombia😂
I use street ATMs all the time in Medellín without issue, but the rules I have are 1) good neighborhood 2) daytime hours, 3) other people around, and 4) preferably one that has a private lockable enclosure. Much quicker than going into a mall, especially if you're on a bike like I often am when moving around town.
i don't recommend street atms as they can easily have debit card/CC readers that steal data... you'd probably never see it unless you know what you're looking for.
I have done it too and without issue, but for a new person it's not a good idea. If you know the area and/or have someone with you that can keep watch that's always a plus and definitely scope it out first and see if anyone is kinda hanging around that looks sketchy.
In general be respectful to people and cultures.
Thanks for all the great video uploads,
I really enjoy watching all of your videos. Keep it it up and I hope you gain more subscribers.
Great advice! Been there 6x now. Definitely need to watch your back out there. Medellin is definitely the place to go though. Bogota is a little sketchy and Cartagena is super sketchy. Getting followed constantly out there. Colombia is an amazing place but don’t get too comfortable out there and be respectful to the locals.
I'm a pacific islander and tank top, shorts and flip flops are in my DNA. That's all I wear!!!
I'M A BE DOOMED when I go to Columbia 🤣🤣🤣
You don't go down to Colombia to meet a woman from there unless you already know her well, which means getting to know her, whom she is, having something in common...etc.- Establishing all this at a distance first... That alone can take time, possibly never going beyond that... Then _IF_ you both are still interested, it's better to meet in a neutral country or place... Like you said, a Colombian woman can be dangerous if taken lightly!
Damn son.
Never thought about the bank advice. I have exclusively used ATMs in the street. But typically during the day when the bank is open, full of people, and there's a security guard outside of the bank.
The VERY few times I used street ATMs at night was in crowded places. But I was nervous the whole time.
I would also say that I would buy a phone there also. From my safety when you go overseas, I bought a phone there. 1. If you take your personal cellphone to another country, they will know automatically they have a tourist because every cellphone has software to run under the country code. 2. The best part is that when you buy the phone there its automatically set up for their network. Just my own opinion. Great video.
It totally makes sense. I know ill blend in very well i dont like flashy but i dont like looking like i just did an oil change 😅
Sopranos: "the BOSS doesn't wear shorts"... That scene always stuck with me... There is no if and or buts about it.
In Medellin maybe, but on the coast the locals wear shorts when going out in the evening. A Colombian guy was telling me it's way more appropriate. That was in Cartagena where of course it can still be boiling hot at night. Obviously this vid is about Medallo though haha
@@Leonardo-1 what the locals call Medellín
Thanks man, I love colombia and definitely I want to come back, but definitely with more precautions, thanks for your advice.
That's one thing that was always crazy to me in Colombia. If it's hot as shit outside, why logically would you not dress as lightly as possible? I'll never understand fashion over practicality.
Yeah it's just a cultural difference. One thing david didn't mention in this video but has in others is that the shorts are for the beach. If you're in Cartagena, Santa Marta, San Andres then yeah wear those shorts, but in the city you won't see people doing that. Not only in Colombia but other latin american countries...again it's the culture. Something I wasn't used to either. I'm from the south in the US and we *always* wore shorts in the summer, so that was a big change for me as well.
@@robbienorton9522 any short wearing stories that changed u
In Cali and surrounding towns, people do walk around in shorts in tank tops, and they do wear sandals. It is not at all uncommon.
@@davidmanix3592 I didn't see many people in Cali wearing short, I was only there a few days though...
That’s because most of their personality revolves around how they look and little else.
Thanks for the great info! I'm headed to Medellin at the end of August for a couple weeks!
You are right about the sandals, but I see board shorts & tank tops all over Columbia & Venezuela.
Colombia
The shorts and sandals thing shocked the hell out of me
Very useful video.! I am Colombian and all this is true!
Do you know any trustworthy person that can be a driver/tour guide in Colombia?? Medellín in particular. Thanks 😊
One of the best videos I’ve seen on Medellin
Can you make a youtube live program explaining why you didnt pick Mexico to live. Thanks, gracias
This is very helpful! Thanks!
Good video. I would say almost all of these are applicable throughout Latin America (if not the world).
Great advice for a safer and more enjoyable stay in Medellin.
100% proud of you bro I hope many people learn something for be safe in Colombia
Yeah we don't take off our shoes at home but that only applies when other people visit you
Walking barefoot around your house is amazing especially with Medellin's weather, but feet are considered nasty sort of speak
The only time I almost got in a fight was with a taxi driver flipping out over the door. To be fair, the doors are super light
David just wanted to say thanks. I am hoping to visit Medellin in Oct or Nov with the idea of seeing if this is someplace I would be willing to move to. Living in Denver my rent is more than it would cost me per month down there. Your videos have been a great help and why I just subscribed to you on Patreon.
I only ever wore shorts in Colombia - it was so hot I stopped caring about sticking out 😂
Are you the hippie backpacker that smells
I appreciate you sharing this video. Thank you.
Waddup David 💪🏿
I wear shorts and a T shirt everyday in Southern California. It depends on the area of the world you live that dictates how you dress. I travel to Mexico and wear a old pair of blue jeans and a long sleeve collar shirt and I blend in with the locals.
I have worn sandles and shorts for 4 yrs. every day. But at night I get pants on if I go out! I'm from CA and AZ and hard to drop old habits. I'm super lucky I've never had anything happen to me. I have spent most of my time in Laureles just moved to Belen last month! A little more paisa here and like it. But when I lived in Laureles I was in the heart of Avenida Jarden Restaurant area ! Pablo is an interesting topic. Some people paisas love him and some don't But why take the chance till you know where they have it! The shoes on in Medellin is a carpet thing! lol! Good tips overall! Head is on a swivel but not in an obvious way!