My parents are from Colombia and you spoke with the truth talking about the poverty there. Every one there looking for handouts and yes it's indeed excruciating, too many people trying to sell you everything under the sun. I was in Pereira and Cartagena and I saw the same crap in both cities. Unfortunately you did see what poverty brings to 40% of the population...everyone trying to get ahead.
For people who are Spanish learners I can tell you that the Spanish spoken in Bogotá is really clear and easy to understand. There are many different accents across Colombia and some are hard to understand like in Barranquilla and other places on the coasts but Bogotá is really good.
I've been to Colombia a few times, but there are a few areas to avoid in Colombia, like in El Centero at Medellin especially at night. Other cities like Bogota in Santa Fe. Colombia can be fun but you have to have your head on a swivel at all times
Hello Graham, I’m Colombian and unfortunately everything you just said in the video is true. Places like Cartagena, Santa Martha, Coveñas that are in the coast and the ocean the tourism is their few sources of living and even then they are always trying to scam people. I hate it! The story about the massage happened to me also, and we had a huge argument with the girl, because I didn’t want the massage but she didn’t care and she pour her “oil” disgusting liquid on my feet, I got so angry she even insulted me. On the other hand I recommend San Andres that is an island, they do have all the beaches under restrictions as you said with the tourist, the do not approach you unless you call them, that is a plus for San Andres. On my personal experience I’m not coming back to Cartagena ever again or maybe to a resort with private beach. About going out at night, it is a different experience from other countries but I do recommend going out at night only if you know exactly where to go and take an uber there and back to the Airbnb, that will be a chance to go out and have local drink in a local lounge or bar. BTW I love your videos, I’m also an Au pair.
Hola Valeria!! Gracias por tomar el tiempo para ver mis vídeos y seguir mi contenido. I really enjoyed Colombia and definitely think I will be back in the future. Just like with everything else, you have to take the good with the bad! On the bright side, I thought that the people of Colombia were some of the nicest and most friendly people I have EVER met! Everyone was always so helpful and 99% of people just wanted to talk with me and welcome me to their country. Again, thanks for watching and follow my on Insta so we can keep up: @aupair.graham ! Un abrazo fuerte!
The only way someone could be rich in Colombia is if they are already rich in the US, the transition to pesos might seem that you are getting a lot of money but in reality your not, since everything is three times as expensive, so you would be paying around the same value you would pay in the US... so no... not everyone can be rich in Colombia, only people that already have lot of money
Thank you for all your tips!! I’m so grateful for all your practical tips and how in depth you went in this video! I’m so impressed to see you doing Spanish/English lessons- that is so cool! Has your brother spent any time in Bogotá/ have any advice for spending time there? Thanks!! Keep up the great videos!
When u say that everyone, even with a little amount of money could be a millionaire in Colombia, is actually false with all due respect. In colombia people need to pay a lot and very expensive taxes and and the more money you have, the more u need to pay... u also have to pay taxes for literally everything, for having a car, for having a house, etc. Only someone with already a lot of money could be rich in Colombia, meaning that if you are a millionare in Colombia u could be a millionare anywhere else as well, which is why most millionares in Colombia when they go to the USA they are still able to buy Mansions and fancy cars, wouldnt make sense that regular guy in the USA that lives on a normal house and has a normal life, goes to Colombia and magically becomes a millionare...
Have to mention that If u have a decent amount of money (meaning that u were already living a wealthy life outside of colombia) u could still live on a wealthy neighborhood and have a good life in Colombia... but that is far being a millionare...
Ahhh I think you misunderstood me. Even if you have a small amount of money in USD, technically in COP you could be a millionaire. Meaning, millionaire status in Colombia doesn’t mean much!
You probably stuck out because you are blonde and very light-skinned, I am as well so I know the feeling! Also, Colombia is one of the hottest tourist destinations at the moment, but it is not the US, and one of the main reasons it is unique and amazing. I live in Colombia, so I kind of disagree with a lot of what you said, but I like to see the perspective from others who are here visiting, so thank you for sharing! Definitely interesting, I hope you do give Colombia another try because it is one of the most amazing countries in the world (in my opinion obviously). If you come back feel free to reach out to me and I will give you some more local smaller pueblos places to visit for a completely different, and probably a way better experience than it seems like you had especially in Santa Marta. I make videos on Colombia, which is how I came across your video, researching for a video I am doing. (Gringa/o isn't always an insult, it started that way in the past Green-Go) but now its very common for us to be called gringo/gringa and its not meant to be an offensive term.
Hi Sara! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to write a comment. I did enjoy my time in Colombia, I just don't know that it's my vibe. I did know about the gringo expression, but in Spain and the U.S., the two places I've lived, that's a huge insult, so I nonetheless didn't appreciate it. I might give Colombia another go in the future, who knows! I'll be sure to check out some of your content. Thanks again!
There are plenty of natural blondes, blue, grey eyed Colombians in Medellin. I’m one of them. I look Nordic, and I sure am taller than most standing at 6ft, but I’ve met plenty of other Colombians who are paisas that look the same. This dude doesn’t really stand out. He probably dressed like a tourist. If you wear jeans, and sneakers you should be fine.
@@GUITARTIME2024 I’m aware that there are differences in the use of the word, but I really don’t like people shouting gringo at me as I’m on the beach or as I’m walking down the street. In a joking situation, I’m ok with it, but it wasn’t being used in a friendly manner…
So sad about they kicking you sand experience, I should say that it's very strange that people be so rude. Even for us, the local tourist is annoying saying "no, thanks" several times when we travel to Cartagena, Santa Martha and San Andres. Definitely the trick is saying "no, thanks" and ignoring them until they leave
Very good and informative video. About the word Gringo at last someone is mean will be an insult 😒 Otherwise Gringo is just a word to discribe foreigners. The truth also is that good educated people will not use it or if they do it will be on a joking situation. Yes, you need thick skin for some areas of the country and some people, specially if you are a non spendthrift. The most "uppery class" people have the tendency to not have any care for savings in the name of living the moment. My experience.
Thanks so much for taking the time to watch and comment. I really appreciate it! I’m definitely on the cheaper side of the price spectrum, and my brother and I always try to insert ourselves into “local” places, so we don’t stay at a super pricey hotel, but rather rent an Airbnb in a central part of town. I think Santa Marta was a bit more of a working class city and not entirely used to seeing foreigners, but still not acceptable behavior.
Okay, I have to say this isn't definitely a place for you. You're saying few things that aren't true and sorry if you didn't feel that good here. I disagree with you so every people who visit a country needs to know and get informed what place to visit...and it happens around the world even in Europe so even some people don't tell the real facts of traveling in Europe also there are some places in which you can get stolen it's not just here... it's everywhere and I prefer nicer people than cold people who even ignore you....so it's a point of view that I have and I respect yours. Maybe you'll feel better visiting other countries..
What things did I say that you can disprove? I specifically said in the video that this is my OPINION, not fact. I lived in Spain for a year and a half, and now I live in Germany, so I know Europe quite well. In my collective almost 2 years living in Europe, I have NEVER felt scared to walk around at night or worried that someone would take my phone if I used it in public. Yes, it happens, but statistically, not nearly as often as in Colombia.
@@grahamcargle okay I'm not disapproving anything you said I was just giving my point of view as well...and everyone is free to express how they felt, and everyone has his/her own experience...so it can be true that maybe here we cannot feel as safe as in Europe even I feel scared sometimes in some areas but I love this country because first is mine and some people instentions here are good so everyone is not that bad and aggressive as you said I felt you were saying as in general, furthermore they want just to make you feel welcome ...and it's ok if you didn't feel that good here...when going to different places people can say if they felt well or not..so it was just my opinion as it was yours...so thank for providing yours and that's it.
My parents are from Colombia and you spoke with the truth talking about the poverty there. Every one there looking for handouts and yes it's indeed excruciating, too many people trying to sell you everything under the sun. I was in Pereira and Cartagena and I saw the same crap in both cities. Unfortunately you did see what poverty brings to 40% of the population...everyone trying to get ahead.
The level of poverty was very very sad. It’s a shame to see such a beautiful country plagued by such major issues.
Thanks for all your advice graham! , My Spanish is about a B1 so I think i'll get around daily conversation's just fine . Thanks for all the advice !!
Hi! I don't think you'll have any issues at all! Enjoy your time time and thanks so much for watching :)
For people who are Spanish learners I can tell you that the Spanish spoken in Bogotá is really clear and easy to understand. There are many different accents across Colombia and some are hard to understand like in Barranquilla and other places on the coasts but Bogotá is really good.
I think you would be happier vacationing in San Diego.
I haven't made it to the West Coast yet, but it's on my bucket list! Thanks for watching and I hope you subscribe!
Good video. Very helpful points
Thanks so much, I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I hope you subscribe!
You are so cute and well spoken. Good channel, Keep doing like that. Cheers from a Colombian
Muchísimas gracias amigo! Cheers!
I've been to Colombia a few times, but there are a few areas to avoid in Colombia, like in El Centero at Medellin especially at night. Other cities like Bogota in Santa Fe. Colombia can be fun but you have to have your head on a swivel at all times
Hello Graham, I’m Colombian and unfortunately everything you just said in the video is true. Places like Cartagena, Santa Martha, Coveñas that are in the coast and the ocean the tourism is their few sources of living and even then they are always trying to scam people. I hate it! The story about the massage happened to me also, and we had a huge argument with the girl, because I didn’t want the massage but she didn’t care and she pour her “oil” disgusting liquid on my feet, I got so angry she even insulted me. On the other hand I recommend San Andres that is an island, they do have all the beaches under restrictions as you said with the tourist, the do not approach you unless you call them, that is a plus for San Andres. On my personal experience I’m not coming back to Cartagena ever again or maybe to a resort with private beach. About going out at night, it is a different experience from other countries but I do recommend going out at night only if you know exactly where to go and take an uber there and back to the Airbnb, that will be a chance to go out and have local drink in a local lounge or bar. BTW I love your videos, I’m also an Au pair.
Hola Valeria!! Gracias por tomar el tiempo para ver mis vídeos y seguir mi contenido.
I really enjoyed Colombia and definitely think I will be back in the future. Just like with everything else, you have to take the good with the bad! On the bright side, I thought that the people of Colombia were some of the nicest and most friendly people I have EVER met! Everyone was always so helpful and 99% of people just wanted to talk with me and welcome me to their country.
Again, thanks for watching and follow my on Insta so we can keep up: @aupair.graham ! Un abrazo fuerte!
The only way someone could be rich in Colombia is if they are already rich in the US, the transition to pesos might seem that you are getting a lot of money but in reality your not, since everything is three times as expensive, so you would be paying around the same value you would pay in the US... so no... not everyone can be rich in Colombia, only people that already have lot of money
Yeah, I found that to be really sad about Colombia! The people were sooooo kind and generous, yet in general very poor.
How much safe is make a road trip with “rent a car” from Bogota to Salento and guatepe route?? and roadt trips towards cartagenta overall
Thank you for all your tips!! I’m so grateful for all your practical tips and how in depth you went in this video! I’m so impressed to see you doing Spanish/English lessons- that is so cool! Has your brother spent any time in Bogotá/ have any advice for spending time there? Thanks!! Keep up the great videos!
When u say that everyone, even with a little amount of money could be a millionaire in Colombia, is actually false with all due respect. In colombia people need to pay a lot and very expensive taxes and and the more money you have, the more u need to pay... u also have to pay taxes for literally everything, for having a car, for having a house, etc. Only someone with already a lot of money could be rich in Colombia, meaning that if you are a millionare in Colombia u could be a millionare anywhere else as well, which is why most millionares in Colombia when they go to the USA they are still able to buy Mansions and fancy cars, wouldnt make sense that regular guy in the USA that lives on a normal house and has a normal life, goes to Colombia and magically becomes a millionare...
Have to mention that If u have a decent amount of money (meaning that u were already living a wealthy life outside of colombia) u could still live on a wealthy neighborhood and have a good life in Colombia... but that is far being a millionare...
Ahhh I think you misunderstood me. Even if you have a small amount of money in USD, technically in COP you could be a millionaire. Meaning, millionaire status in Colombia doesn’t mean much!
You probably stuck out because you are blonde and very light-skinned, I am as well so I know the feeling! Also, Colombia is one of the hottest tourist destinations at the moment, but it is not the US, and one of the main reasons it is unique and amazing. I live in Colombia, so I kind of disagree with a lot of what you said, but I like to see the perspective from others who are here visiting, so thank you for sharing! Definitely interesting, I hope you do give Colombia another try because it is one of the most amazing countries in the world (in my opinion obviously). If you come back feel free to reach out to me and I will give you some more local smaller pueblos places to visit for a completely different, and probably a way better experience than it seems like you had especially in Santa Marta. I make videos on Colombia, which is how I came across your video, researching for a video I am doing. (Gringa/o isn't always an insult, it started that way in the past Green-Go) but now its very common for us to be called gringo/gringa and its not meant to be an offensive term.
Hi Sara! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to write a comment. I did enjoy my time in Colombia, I just don't know that it's my vibe.
I did know about the gringo expression, but in Spain and the U.S., the two places I've lived, that's a huge insult, so I nonetheless didn't appreciate it.
I might give Colombia another go in the future, who knows! I'll be sure to check out some of your content. Thanks again!
There are plenty of natural blondes, blue, grey eyed Colombians in Medellin. I’m one of them. I look Nordic, and I sure am taller than most standing at 6ft, but I’ve met plenty of other Colombians who are paisas that look the same. This dude doesn’t really stand out. He probably dressed like a tourist. If you wear jeans, and sneakers you should be fine.
@@grahamcargle Gringo is not necessarily an insult in America. It depends on the way its said.
@@GUITARTIME2024 I’m aware that there are differences in the use of the word, but I really don’t like people shouting gringo at me as I’m on the beach or as I’m walking down the street. In a joking situation, I’m ok with it, but it wasn’t being used in a friendly manner…
@@grahamcargle oh, I understand. Cool.
Great work on the video 📹 👏
Thanks so much!
So sad about they kicking you sand experience, I should say that it's very strange that people be so rude. Even for us, the local tourist is annoying saying "no, thanks" several times when we travel to Cartagena, Santa Martha and San Andres. Definitely the trick is saying "no, thanks" and ignoring them until they leave
It definitely wasn’t my most fun moment in Colombia, hahaha. All good though. Jerks are jerks, regardless of the country they’re from!
Very good and informative video. About the word Gringo at last someone is mean will be an insult 😒 Otherwise Gringo is just a word to discribe foreigners. The truth also is that good educated people will not use it or if they do it will be on a joking situation. Yes, you need thick skin for some areas of the country and some people, specially if you are a non spendthrift. The most "uppery class" people have the tendency to not have any care for savings in the name of living the moment. My experience.
Thanks so much for taking the time to watch and comment. I really appreciate it!
I’m definitely on the cheaper side of the price spectrum, and my brother and I always try to insert ourselves into “local” places, so we don’t stay at a super pricey hotel, but rather rent an Airbnb in a central part of town.
I think Santa Marta was a bit more of a working class city and not entirely used to seeing foreigners, but still not acceptable behavior.
bring more money than this guy is saying for a normal tourist they spend more
“This guy” is definitely a budget traveler, so it’s not a bad idea to bring more if you plan to spend more!
Who told you “Gringo” was an insult? Hahaha it isn’t
I said in the video that I know that it’s not an insult in Colombia, but it doesn’t come with a good insinuation either.
Okay, I have to say this isn't definitely a place for you. You're saying few things that aren't true and sorry if you didn't feel that good here. I disagree with you so every people who visit a country needs to know and get informed what place to visit...and it happens around the world even in Europe so even some people don't tell the real facts of traveling in Europe also there are some places in which you can get stolen it's not just here... it's everywhere and I prefer nicer people than cold people who even ignore you....so it's a point of view that I have and I respect yours. Maybe you'll feel better visiting other countries..
What things did I say that you can disprove? I specifically said in the video that this is my OPINION, not fact.
I lived in Spain for a year and a half, and now I live in Germany, so I know Europe quite well. In my collective almost 2 years living in Europe, I have NEVER felt scared to walk around at night or worried that someone would take my phone if I used it in public. Yes, it happens, but statistically, not nearly as often as in Colombia.
@@grahamcargle okay I'm not disapproving anything you said I was just giving my point of view as well...and everyone is free to express how they felt, and everyone has his/her own experience...so it can be true that maybe here we cannot feel as safe as in Europe even I feel scared sometimes in some areas but I love this country because first is mine and some people instentions here are good so everyone is not that bad and aggressive as you said I felt you were saying as in general, furthermore they want just to make you feel welcome ...and it's ok if you didn't feel that good here...when going to different places people can say if they felt well or not..so it was just my opinion as it was yours...so thank for providing yours and that's it.
Thank you for tips
I sent you a message on IG.💯
Thanks so much for watching! I think I responded to your message, but I'll check again.