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Andrew, quite coincidentally, the only time someone tried to rob me was when I was TIGHTLY holding my phone on a bus - too tightly for him to snatch it - here in Manila. That doesn't mean I have not had OTHER unfortunate experiences residing in Philippines, but that is another story.
I am a well travelled (65 countries) single woman. I stayed in Colombia and absolutely loved the country and people. I however, did not feel entirely safe there. It would not stop me going there again but it is one of only a handful of places I've been where my senses were on constant alert.
It's liked that in too many places; Rio de Janeiro, Miami, Arizona, Washington DC and some areas in, Georgia Estate, USA. L.A., S.F.. N.Y. C.🎉 THE WHOLE SOUTHERN STATES😅😊🎉
As a retired Gringo (Foreigner) living in Colombia for over 5 years in and outside Bogota, I have not had any issues with other people, homeless people or other tourists.... And I have worked and lived in the UAE, UK, Europe, Asia and the USA. A happy man.
Good for you and I'm glad you enjoy Colombia, but I have to say the UAE is the country I experienced as the safest during my time there. No homeless people, no fentanyl heads, high standard of living, and lots of friendly people.
@@ReverendDr.Thomaswhy are you shocked? I lived in KSA some years ago and I was feeling so safe and respected... They guys aren't event looking into women's eyes! I agree with the person above, the safest countries I have visited were the Arab ones.
Bogota is one of my favorite cities in the world...and I've been to hundreds in 40 countries on 6 continents. It is so beautiful and the people are incredibly kind. "Don't dangle a papaya!"
Having visited since 1990s, lived there since 2010s and married to Colombiana, Let me simplify. It is a class system with zones of safe and unsafe within city. The wealthy have security, servants, private schools, private doctors, delivery, and stay in safe zones. The middle class are DIY on social healthcare system, and are both in safe and unsafe zones. The vast majority, the poor, live day to day to survive, high crime, and stay in unsafe zones and barrios. My middle class degreed wife experienced lots of theft and physical assault using public areas during day before we met. She always warned not to look rich or show expensive electronics or jewelry in unsafe zones (public areas). The constant lying and cheating of some was tiresome. Never could let your guard down. To escape crime, we had to buy a home in upscale bubble safe zone and primarily stay in that area until her death. Gates and window bars on ground floor. There were a few attempted break-ins while we traveled. We did not have cameras, security or servants. I always carried weapons in public. I have not visited Colombia since her death in 2017. It is safer and more expensive today than 1990s for sure. My experience was there were cheaper and safer areas overall than Bogota in Colombia and the world. Every country has bad areas some more, some less.
I have been almost everywhere in the world including Syria (before the civil war) and Colombia, and the city I felt most unsafe in was central Washington D.C (suburbs are not too bad). Have not been to San Fransisco and these days have no desire to. Thanks for educating people about the world.
I have a buddy living in bogota right now. His only complaint is that they are doing rolling water shut offs every ten days. So every ten days you will have no water for 24 hours. Other wise he feels safe, but he doesn’t drink, occasionally goes dancing and not getting any hookers, lol. He has been on dates with one or two women who have him weird vibes, but nothing other than that. He’s also built a great social circle in a couple months of being there.
The perception that foreigners have of Colombia is based on Netflix series, I have seen more foreigners obsessed with Escobar, Colombians no longer care, there are more cities to go to, Bucaramanga, Pereira, Ibagué, Armenia which in 1999 suffered an earthquake that completely devastated it and now it has recovered are undervalued destinations
I don't think that Netflix are responsible for that perception. When Colombia is showed in the news outside of the country, mainly your find notes about the "civil war", or drug gangs or things like that. But we the colombians are working to improve the image, inside and outside the country.
In fact, the image that foreigners have of all of Latin America is based on films, Netflix series and propaganda against the continent made by Hollywood. I did research at the University on this topic. What the research showed is that those who have the truest image of Latin America are Europeans, although some still have an image based on films. Americans are the opposite, very few Americans have a real idea about the continent because they have traveled to several countries and learned good things about it, but most Americans base it on films because they have never been there. What the research also showed is that the USA is afraid that its citizens will really get to know Latin America, that each country has its own culture, its own history, its gastronomy, its music, and that Americans prefer to live in one of these countries like Colombia for example than the USA. That's why Netflix and Hollywood need to make films and series defaming Latin America with super stereotypical content to prevent Americans from traveling to these countries, creating a fear that sometimes doesn't make sense.
@@MrFtriana Colombia has good things too. I'm Brazilian but I've never visited Colombia and I know that the country has many incredible things. This happens in my country too and throughout Latin America. Newspapers from abroad will always prefer to talk about the bad things about our countries, "forgetting" or omitting the good things. This is propaganda as I said in the comment, this is on purpose. Whenever newspapers abroad talk about Brazil (my country) it is always about deforestation in the Amazon, crime, drugs and murder. This year we have already reduced deforestation in the Amazon by more than 60%, and I haven't seen any newspaper from abroad talking about it. The government has a project to reforest deforested areas and some of these areas have already been planted with new trees, and I haven't seen any newspapers from abroad talking about this project. Murders dropped by half and no foreign newspaper spoke either, they all omitted this news. The same strategy applies to Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Paraguay, etc.
@@lumesquita5524 yeah, i hear about that. Is more like the Usa people still have the same perception about hispanic America since the 80's, maybe ignoring all the struggle that we have to do to improve our own situation. I don't blame them, but really they have to see beyond the news and the streaming. They need to know the real Hispanic América, beyond the crime and all the bad things.
Rule #1: No dar papaya Rule # 2: Be distrustful of strangers talking to you in the street, even if their apperance looks harmless (if you're going to interact, keep some distance) Rule #3: Dont go to places you shouldnt go, especially at night. Otherwise, you're fine, just ask the locals about the dos and donts This advice is valid for everywhere in public, although the nicer the neigbourhood the less you have to worry about it. I'll elaborate a bit with what I've learned living here my whole life, it might be interesting for some of you: Thugs, or the people who would mugg you, live in a different reality than most watching this video. They are incredibly streetwise and are atuned to things we are not. Their world paradigm is very survival-centric, which means they think in terms of prey and predator (literally). This means that they are sensitive to particular behaviours that would indicate someone would be an easy prey with minimal risk to themselves (they are very risk averse ironically). Their sense of morality works somehow like - if you gave me a reason to mugg you then its youre own fault, not mine. Practically, this boils down to walking down a street with body language that is too distracted, not aware of the surroundings, showing an item of value, lost, etc... If you walk with purpose and are generally aware of whats going on around you, you reduce the probability of catching their attention significantly. If anyone wierd talks to you, don't be overly friendly or hostile - be quick, direct, to the point, and get on with it. Don't show fear. In fact, ignore if you can, dont engage/open a communication channel in the first place. Now, if a thuggish looking person asks you for the time... hahah game over its very likely that youre about to get mugged, thats like their move. If youre going to get mugged, just comply, dont make a scene, give them youre phone or watch (which is what they usually ask), and even if this sounds horrible, try to be friendly about it. Its better than getting stabbed. This is incredibly rare though, you have to be hanging out somewhere you shouldnt be hanging out in the first place and then making a scene. Hope this was interesting!
You're on point. But the Bogota's come back home alive instructions manual is a lot bigger than this. Like, don't talk money in front of the cleaning lady, you will kidnapped. Keep the porteros happy (they know your daily schedule) Never ever take a cab (you will be kidnapped Paseo Millonario style) Don't talk to hot ladies (yes.. you guessed that, you will be kidnapped, or drugged, prob. both) Never ever hand over your credit card to anyone (it will be cloned) Check you're not being followed after withdrawing cash from the bank, you'll be "fleteado" and a looooooong etc. Be ready for a lot of learning folks. hahaha
My first trip to Bogota was completely by chance. I was on a business trip for my government employer to another country and a coworker tasked to Bogota got sick and I had to take over. I loved the place. It was nothing what the old timers said. I later was told that they made a mistake sending me because too many young people realize that their are other options. I am going to check it out more and might move. I saw a nascent tech scene and see some opportunity. I live in Baltimore and I can say I felt safer in Afghanistan.
Never been robbed in Central Am, MX, China, US, UK, but was robbed in Mongolia at an outdoor swap n shop. Ironic thing is the Mongolians are some of the sweetest people I have met anywhere, MX close second.
I worked for the federal government for over 20 years and spent about 15 of those in Colombia. All over the country--nice parts and the....not-so-nice parts. This video is a very good, balanced and accurate depiction of what Bogotá is today. I LOVE the city. To me, it is far better than a city like Chicago, or someplace like that. The good far overrides the bad in Bogotá. By a long shot! Unlike so many cities in the world, Bogotá is getting BETTER. You can't say that in many places in the U.S.
I have been living in La Candelaria, Bogota since 2015. I drive all around the country, I take public transportation everywhere and I also film with expensive equipment and I also use my phone on the street. This is my personal experience, but I never had one single issue. We will start publishing videos in July again and I will also publish a video about safety in Colombia (not only Bogota). cheers frank
Hello Frank! I've never had any issues in Colombia either. Just use common sense. Btw, I really miss your videos...they're actually the best of Colombia. Thanks for sharing!
I lived in the wealthy part of Bogota for a month and felt super safe. However the day I left someone got shot dead a few meters away from where I always had my coffee.
I dont know... I live in in Spain where there are lots of Colombians, and they moved because they don't feel safe there. It is also to this day, complicit some of the most dire narco-traffic
Los colombianos que se van son los que no tienen nada aca, como casa o empleo, la mayoria por ganar supuestamente mejor, pero a cambio de estar lejos de la familia. Si claro tenemos violencia pero no como hace muchos años, los que se van, es porque quieren ganar mas dinero. algunos son solteros otros con familia. Pero muy pocos por la supuesta violencia. Si existen bandas criminales pero estan en el negocio de la drogas pero ellos siempre estan bien camuflados haciendo sus negocios , y los robos de telefonos es lo mas comun. Tengo casi 30 años que no veo un robo y que me roben.
Usually they are from Cali or poorer areas, if you find bogotans for example they will mostly studying or working legally abroad. The ones you're seeing are a particular group of people who instead of trying another city went to Spain where they can work in jobs and receive a better salary compared to the same job in Colombia
I been talking about this with one of my buddies over the last week. Safety in Georgia vs Colombia. I tell him, yes, there are certain parts of Colombia that may dangerous to be in but I'm not in those areas and have no reason to be. I've spent a lot of time in Colombia and never once did I feel uncomfortable in any city I was in except for Barranquilla. From certain parts I saw in Barranquilla. But I was only there for 3 days. But besides that, I've been all over Colombia. From the northern coast (Cartagena to Santa Marta, Rioacha, Cabo de la Vela) to Medellín to Bogotá to Bucaramanga to Cali and Popayan in the south and have always felt safe. Use your common sense wherever you go. Ironic but the third week of being here in Tbilisi I was assaulted while going down the escalator at one of the metro stations. And Georgia is considered one of the safest countries in the world. It shocked the heck out of me that that happened. Never would have thought that would happen here.
You have several homes in nice, safe, comfortable homes in neighborhoods around the world. I want ONE. I am putting all my efforts into this endeavor. I now live in a small well off town in Ecuador. I do worry about the country in the case of a great crisis in the future, but for me it is the best I can find. In a world crisis Ecuador is a pretty good place in the grand scheme of things. I did visit Colombia, Ecuadors neighbor, and it was inherently more dangerous than Ecuador.
I know it's popular to say Colombia is perfectly safe, but in reality it can be a bit dangerous. To start, Colombia is one of my favorite Latin American countries... I lived in Medellin for a year, and go back somewhat frequently. I've travelled around the country and speak decent Spanish. I would say that one definitely has to exercise more caution in Colombia than many other countries I've travelled. Most Colombians I know also will express that they feel Colombia is a somewhat dangerous place overall. But again, it's a great country.
the reality is that cities like Berlin, Vienna, Prague, Warsaw, Dubai, Singapore, Shanghai, Tokyo are much safer than Bogota while Bogota is still a lot safer than many other cities in Central- or South America or South Africa/Africa ...
I have been robbed in Houston at gunpoint, pickpocketed in Paris and luggage stolen in Brazil...but no issues in Colombia. Yes, crime does exist...however, people tend to exaggerate because they like to play the victim.
@@HoustonGuy how long did you live in Houston? In Bogota? In Paris etc.? How different was your behavior? There are many criterion which people with their 'personal experience' often forget to take into the account. It is already not the same if one has in one country to take care not to show the smartphone in public while you can do that in most parts of Europe without any problem (or even think about that). If one already thinks about that as safety procedure (confirmed by official advice) and/or one lives mostly within a few kind of gated bubbles then thats already a sign of a limited life quality and worthless 'experiences', because thats not comparable (it is actually a bad choice to live in such an environment when you could change that)
Spot on. I've only had trouble once in years in Bogota. And it was an unlucky situation - just pure chance. Bogotá is greater than Medellin. But Lima beats Bogota for safety. Plus, the foods better in Peru.
Colombia beats Peru on almost everything. Colombian food is delicious too. I don't see anything special about Peruvian food, except the ceviche. Colombia is like 10 countries in one. Each Department (States) offers a different gastronomy. A very rich and diverse culture. And let's talk about women, the most beautiful in the world. And the list goes on and on.
@@inolvidable. Colombia wins on women and coffee, I'll give you that. It's why both my Colombian roast and my girlfriend are imports. But food? Nope. Regional gastronomy is a thing in Peru too. And Peru smokes Colombia for gastronomy. The food in Peru is lightyears ahead of Colombia. As are the cocktails!
White girls travelling alone have very real challenges. Women in general but white women are especially at risk in non-white nations. As a seasoned traveller, people don’t talk about this taboo subject.
You don't even look white, but more Indian. You can even pass as a Colombian. And Colombia has the most beautiful women in the world. So, if it s about beauty, they won't even notice you.
I went to Bogota from 5th of June to the 13th and I walked over 40km + used a city bike thru the week, I had my cellphone out most of the time and never felt like someone was gonna grab it or steal from me. I'm from Montreal in Quebec and I can say where I visited was much safer than downtown Montreal lol, Colombia has very safe parks and places thru the day and are very calm areas at night as well. 😀😀
Lol. I am from Colombia and i have lived in Bogotá 4 years and have spent there months in Montreal. You could not be more mistaken. I am glad you had a good time in Bogotá, but they mug people lot in Bogotá. This dude is just rich and walks around nice neighborhoods but I lived 20 block from him and was mugged about four times in 4 years, just going out to take the bus and shit. It's not like a had a "risky" lifestyle. when you don't spend everyday in a place or you don't have to be in places you don't want and you have money for drivers in case you have to go to an area you don't know, then I bet most cities in the world are as safe as Montreal. I mean I heard there were crazy persons in the Montreal metro taking their dicks out to girls and shit, but in the buses of bogotá they have killed people and even bus drivers
Bogotá is the best choice. Is you are living in a nice neigboorhood, you are living in a so nice place in the world, Bogotá by climate, bussiness, elegance (it is like London tendency), bike city, parks, arts (a lot of cultural movement, I recommend the affordable concerts of classical music of Filarmónica of Bogotá) and safe. Bogotá only missing the subway but it is in construction.
I feel pretty safe in the coffee region. I can't say that about Bogota however. I was robbed in the BOG airport last year - took my eye off my cart for a few seconds. Lucky the small bag I had did not have anything really important in it. They should lock down that airport like they do in the Philippines. Only let people in with tickets.
As someone that has lived in Bogota my whole life, I agree 100% with your opinion. If you have enough means and are willing to take safety measures, you can build a very safe lifestyle in Bogota, even as a permanent resident. It probably holds true for other cities, but it's a bit of a stretch to generalize. I suggest changing the title to Bogota instead of Colombia in general. In spite of that, thank you for debunking myths about this city I love so much.
Currently in Medellín buying property, with every city in the world there are safe areas and dangerous areas. On this trip I've seen people leave backpacks with laptops unattended for hours in a busy cafe in the middle of the city with no one touching them. I've also seen local women leave their purses at the dinner table at touristy restaurants for well over 30 minutes while they were taking scenic pictures, again no one touched them. There's of course pickpockets and petty thieves on the streets but if you're aware of your surroundings you typically won't have a bad time. The people here are super friendly and even if you don't speak Spanish are very accommodating.
no, not every city has dangerous areas. already that you believe this bullshit shows that you have no clue about the world. many ppl also in safe cities consider some neighborhoods as bad but there is a difference between really dangerous neighborhoods and just psychological 'feeling a bit more unsafe if walking at night' (or even dont care about because the entire city is so safe that it is just a 'bad habit' from higher crime cities/cultures - or entirely psychological imaginations due to some media/movies)
Hi 👋 Very much enjoying your videos! Thanks. Just wanted to point out that Dubai is ranked below cities like San Francisco simply because the majority of inhabitants of Dubai are low skilled migrant workers who make services and construction possible. They have to face all kinds of abuse, including criminal deaths due to the corruption and control of the state.
Great Video. Yes, the biggest problem is the motorcycle thieves and they can strike anywhere! Always roll up your windows at stop lights is what my wife reminds me! You also have to be very careful to not run motorcycles over, it is almost like they have a death wish! My first trip to Colombia was in 2004 and I heard the same comments below as I do today. Been to every major Colombian city with no problems. Nothing has changed with people's perception of the place, because that is what they have seen on their TV shows and in the movies. People will believe what they want to believe. I never found trouble then and the same for now. LOL, I currently have been living in a Bogota gated community for the past 3 years with no problems. The trick is to blend in with the average well-off person and let other people show off their wealth (or debt) with their fancy cars and be the targets. Recently got my Colombian drivers license and even drive with the windows down (I roll up windows at stop lights in iffy areas) with no problems. My worst run-in was with a pillar in my parking garage at my apartment complex, yes my poor car has a nice scratch now. I recently returned to my home city in the midwest states and did not feel safe. I could not wait to get back home to Bogota where I feel safe. You should buy the Nomad Capitalist book and start there if you are even thinking about “going to where you are treated best”. Lots of good stuff for rookies with no experience.
My problem would be the leftist (crime tolerant) current president of Colombia. While at the moment Bogotá is not much worse than many big cities, the incentives for an increasing wave of crime are aligning.
Bogota sorprende , una movida cultural interesante, gente y lugares cheveres A mejorar infraestructura de movilidad Sentido de pertenencia por los nacidos y no nacidos en Bogota Seguridad , orden y aseo .. Por lo demás y su sabana o alrededores de Bogota son bellos. 👌💯🇨🇴
Me alegra que te haya gustado Bogotá y que la hayas considerado segura, pero una cosa es bien cierta, eso depende de los sitios por dónde transitas. No es lo mismo que vivas y hagas negocios en el norte de la ciudad que en el sur o en otras localidades. Si bien es cierto que la seguridad es relativa, debes siempre estar alerta. Pero por supuesto, valoro tu positivismo, gracias por compartir tus experiencias en mi país.
Como colombiana, aunque vivo en Estados Unidos, crecí en mi ciudad y tengo una buena idea de cómo es, ya que voy cada año y me quedo tres y cuatro meses. Es una ciudad grande y hay gente por todos lados, no importa la vecindad, pobre o rica, ladrones hay por todas partes, una situación agravada por la inmigración de los últimos años, pero no se puede decir que es una ciudad imposible de vivir.
You need to be careful when you take ubers, indrivers, cabify's and also please never take a taxi in the street and always call the taxis and send the location to a friend and the details of the car that is going to pick you up. Don't walk in the street with your phone in the hands and be attentive to your surroundings.
@@mep593 have you been walking around with your iphone out? If so you just got lucky...nothing to do with being beta/alpha (and you probably aren't alpha btw)
@@mep593 I never have any issues. The idea that I would not take out my phone seems silly to me. If I would perceive an area to be so unsafe that that would be necessary I would not go there, but so far that has never happened. Have never been in Bogotá (besides transferring at the airport there) but I have been to Acapulco twice and had no problems there.
Every large city has it issues. I have lived in New York City, Pittsburgh and Atlanta in U.S. problems. Rio de Janeiro no real problems, but you have to stay out of areas. And you have to beware of your surroundings. My current city is smaller, but is very safe .
La ultima vez que me robaron fue como en el año 1999. Iba en transporte publico y nos asaltaron, hace mucho no vivo eso, pero es mucha suerte, actualmente en cualquier lugar del mundo te pueden robar. Aunque desde hace mucho no me roban ni veo robar.
I have a few comments on this topic since I've been to Colombia several times, I speak Spanish fluently and I mingled with locals amd ex-pats who are not millionaires in that country. Firstly, it's true that Colombia is a pretty safe country overall, especially if you compare it to historical standards. One of my hosts in Colombia was in the air force in the 80's and 90's, and he gave an honest breakdown of the security standards for civilians. Essentially, things have dramatically improved, even between 2005 and 2015, which is great. However, there are still security concerns in Colombia, as Andrew alluded to. You can find articles about how American men get drugged and robbed by women they meet on dating apps, and they generally do this while meeting in private on a first date. Also, pickpocketing is a fairly common occurence, so locals will tell you to not wear flashy watches or attract attention in other ways. If you have security, obviously that's less of a concern, but most people don't. I personally feel safe enough in Colombia that I will spend a few months there next year, but I would warn others to not participate in the nightlife and get involved with drugs or prostitutes. I have no interest in that, but I know some people do. I would add that Colombian politicians are aware that crime is a problem, and they do address it in their discourse. For example, there's been a big crackdown on human trafficking (thankfully), and I expect things to continue trending in the right direction. Of course, wealth gaps between the rich and the poor contribute to these problems, but the middle class is growing in the country. I love Colombia and I'm optimistic for the future, although I still have some security concerns at the moment. Best of luck, and subscribe to my channel @philsidock. 😂
There really is something about Bogotá. I really love its setting; high altitude tropical setting amidst the backdrop of brick buildings and lush mountains. What every person forgets is that they will always have areas in the cities they live in that they wouldn't want to go. We all create our bubbles. I wonder however if it is it easier to create your bubble in Bogotá or São Paulo...
what every person like you forget is that there are in difference to your nonsense of course cities (prague, vienna, munich, dubai, singapore etc.) where you dont have to care where you go. you really have to LEARN what really safer places are and why. you find in almost all cities ppl who talk about bad neighborhoods. but there is a difference between a so called 'bad neighborhood' in Berlin, Hamburg or Warsaw and one in Bogota or Johannisburg.
I live in Metro Manila, so I'd like to think I'm not too out of touch with reality. I earn well enough and I do not live in Makati or BGC. I have found a place where I can get good affordable food, entertainment and services. For a wealthy potential resident, I think the same can be done in Bogotá. I generally do not prioritize having safety as a pedestrian THROUGHOUT the whole city since I will never go to every part of the city (Metro Manila is a cluster of cities). I think most city dwellers are the same; you'll never want to visit every single part of your city. You only need your bubble.
We are in Quetzaltenango, the 2nd largest city in Guatemala, and feel very safe. We have never spent time in Guatemala City and hear it is dangerous unless you are in certain neighborhoods. ( we have also lived in Costa Rica and Nicaragua and Guatemala is by far our favorite). We have been to Bogota and liked it very much, BUT, I'm curious why someone might pick Bogota over Buenas Aires, if looking for a great south American city.
As a Colombian that has lived in Bogotá most of my time, Bogotá is NOT safe or a good city, BUT if you are rich you will always can use your money to live in a bubble and be happy and also travel, that's what he does. Nowadays Bogotá is way worst because of the millions of venezuelan homeless on top of the already big misery of Colombians. BUT again if you have money is not that bad as extremely poor countries like Haiti, I think if you are rich even in Haiti you could build your Buble and live happy.
That's if you can really look the other side in presence of extreme misery. The funny thing is, every little piece of mercy and sympathy left on you will be exploited and used against you till you become cynical. That's what Bogota society is made of. Don't blame them, it's survival instinct.
Sadly, you're one of those negative Colombians that trashes his own country. Saying Bogota is not a "good" city speaks volumes about your negative attitude/energy. Yes, the influx of 4 MILLION Venezuelans has increased crime but Colombia continues to be beautiful. And regardless of wealth/income, we ALL live in a bubble here in the US, France, etc. You must live in southern Bogota.
I don't know why I am following your videos because I have no capital nor am I a nomad. What I am is Colombian. And also an occasional traveler. And also a sometimes impractical philosopher. I have come to a simple conclusion: in life, you don't want to be too comfortable or too stressed. I think going where you are best treated is sound advise, but if you are treated too well, you might get bored. And boredom is a terrible sin. :)
That's right. The city, which I came to call home, Panama City, is the safest metropolitan one in the larger area. It depends on the barrio, but mostly all people walk around with their eyes on the phone. That even gets annoying, when you are always the one taking care for both people to not bump into each other. But I enjoy the safety.
You can easily walk around most areas of San Francisco and DC with a 50k watch and handbag with your phone out and you’ll have a higher chance of getting hit by a car (or lightning) than being robbed. This is why I always shake my head when I hear people trying to say Bogota, São Paulo, etc are “safer” than a lot of other Western cities up north and in Europe. There are neighborhoods in every city on earth that are bad, but if I can’t casually text while walking down the sidewalk in the center of town, it’s not safe. Another aspect to consider is police presence. Some of the most trafficked and crowded areas of LatAm cities lack basic police presence, even government areas where you would assume to feel the safest. Finally, this makes Mexico City look great if you ignore the water issues. You *can* causally walk through most central and even secondary neighborhoods with nice items and your phone out without worrying about being robbed. Even Centro, which can get extremely crowded, at least has heavy policy presence.
I've got a couple of gringo friends who were wondering, what if we go back to the States, they were a bit tired of the Colombian chaos. It took them a month to come back. Apparently, the US is not what it used to be. So they say. They feel safer in Bogotá than in NY, they got mugged in Central park.
Good day sir. My name is Cesar Alvarez and for a while I’ve been watching your videos and have been trying to use them to educate my self and learn more of how to grow as an investor. I would love to know if there is such a course or program that you provide for young mates as my self to help me grow and if there is how can I arrange to purchase it. Best regards
Some USA folks throwing some bad vibes about Colombia when cities such a Baltimore, St Louis and Philadelphia aren't that safe. If you get lost in the wrong neighborhood you will get in trouble. Colombia is a dangerous country but if you are the type of dude who came here to find working girls and get wild with crazy parties then you might get hurt. There are mnuseums, historical places and nice libraries to boost your intelligence but I know some guys specially youngters aren't into that. Stay safe in your countries fellows..
Yeah i've heard way too many horror stories about people getting drugged off scopolamine and taken for all their valuable possessions. You can search on TH-cam and see how many people have been robbed. So i'm skipping Colombia and going to Buenos Aires Argentina myself.
Interesting video! I served in the military and spent a lot of time in Columbia. The first time I went there was in 2004. While we were in Bogota, we had to travel in armored non-tactical vehicles (like the MB you were riding in). There were still local factions like the FARC that were in the narco trade as well as kidnapping high profile and business people to fund their operations. The Alvaro Uribe administration did a lot of work to reform older policies and "clean up" Columbia. The FARC signed the peace treaty in 2016. The last time I was in Bogota was in 2017. We no longer travelled around in armorered vehicles and could travel anywhere we wanted. Ironically, I was still in the military and stationed in the North Bay area of California (between San Francisco and Sacramento). I found that Bogota was MUCH nicer and safer than San Francisco. As you said, the climate is much cooler than the rest of Columbia. The city is designed more like a European city than a LATAM one. The Columbian people are very friendly and I found that Bogota has many highly-skilled professionals and a great quality of life there. The only barrier for me is that I don't speak Spanish that well, but I now live in the DFW area, so I'm dealing with spanish just as much here. Right now, Columbia is much more attractive than many places in America. This is coming from someone who is pretty patriotic. Facts are facts though.
I wouldn't call a place where you can't get your phone out on the street for fear of getting robbed safe at all. Those people that would rob you for a phone - some of them would hurt you for no reason at all, because it's their idea of having fun. That's how a lot of criminals think. From personal experience, I can tell you that there are countries where people are just generally aggressive, and those where they aren't. I was born and lived most of my life in a former, in a good and well-off family, nowhere near any disturbed areas or crime. Yet, almost all of my friends, who were from similar families, experienced robbery, some at knifepoint, some were maimed, I know of a rape and a couple rape attempts, etc., etc.... Personally, I was tracked a few times by would-be robbers as a kid, as an adult attacked by an angry mob at the city center without any provocation whatsoever, witnessed quite a bunch of vicious fights, had to use pepper spray on people, had to threaten people with knives and bats, and that's not taking into account quite a bunch of occasions when some no-do-goods were obviously sizing me up, but decided to look for someone else. All of this happened in the center or some other very good neighborhood of a large city that wasn't supposed to be quite dangerous to begin with. I've been living in a smaller town of a generally peaceful country for a couple years now, and I can tell you: the difference is immense. It's not about crime, really: as you grow up in that "aggressive" place, you learn that people in general don't wish you any good, that many of them will hurt you, given an opportunity, just because it's how they are. When you move to a "peaceful" country, you immediately know the difference. I go whenever I want, wherever I want, and there was not a single occasion when I had an urge to reach for a weapon and grab it in my pocket. I used to do this a few times a year in previous life. Even dogs are friendlier here - and I'm not the only guy from my old country that noticed that.
All the people saying they never had safety issue must lear to read and study, read statistics. I never had issues where I have been, although people complain of being unsafe. Bogotá has a high murder number, it's unsafe. There might be safe areas, but it's a a lot unsafer than Europe or North America.
Having to hide your stuffs to feel "safe" is not what I say... I feel safe. I never had to hide my phone in USA or Tokyo... I dont think you have to do that in Netherland, Switzerland o Sweden... I am from Argentina I know what is walk with fear at night or you dont feel safe every time you heard a motorcycle ... Good channel btw
Well, in the meantime Germany,France and England is more dangerous. There you can get stabbed for nothing. (European expat here, living 25 years in Bogotá). But you have to say, that the crime rate in Bogotá is increasing. And not because of Colombians, its because of the migrants (from Venezuela).
What is the deal with phones? In the has-been unsafe USA, we do not feel that people want to steal out phones. People have their phones out on their table or adjacent seat. Nobody seems to want to take our phone. Is it a costly iPhone thing?
Andrew talk about saudi arabia not renewing its oil sale contract in dollars, how does that affect the dollar as strong currency for use overseas in your opinion?
"no dar papaya" folks just follow what the locals do an you will be fine. I've lived in Colombia for 4 years and never been robbed or scammed. It's a matter of having your head out of your ass which sadly most Americans don't
You feel safe in Columbia because you are always in your luxurious cocoon. Why don't you try walking outside of your shell and see how dangerous it actually is. People are being kidnapped, robbed everyday..
Bogotá is comparably as unsafe as an average American metropoli, the thing is almost all the criminas never go to jail even if they go to court, so the number of criminals may not increase a lot but will never decrease a bit
Tbh, a lot of tourists come to Colombia looking for parties, drugs and sex. They find themselves with a very big advantage in exchange rates and this drives them to flaunt their money by flashing luxury in public. I wonder why they find themselves being robbed and/or scammed? Colombia is still a very unequal country and people resent the fear rich people show towards the rest of the population. As long as you don’t behave like a naive wannabe narco, try to stay on the legal side of society and take basic precautions, you should be ok.
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Colombia is definitely safe compared to NYC.
Andrew, quite coincidentally, the only time someone tried to rob me was when I was TIGHTLY holding my phone on a bus - too tightly for him to snatch it - here in Manila.
That doesn't mean I have not had OTHER unfortunate experiences residing in Philippines, but that is another story.
I am a well travelled (65 countries) single woman. I stayed in Colombia and absolutely loved the country and people. I however, did not feel entirely safe there. It would not stop me going there again but it is one of only a handful of places I've been where my senses were on constant alert.
It's liked that in too many places; Rio de Janeiro, Miami, Arizona, Washington DC and some areas in, Georgia Estate, USA. L.A., S.F.. N.Y. C.🎉
THE WHOLE SOUTHERN STATES😅😊🎉
I felt safer in Bogota than I did in Manhattan, and I was born and grew up in NYC.
Feel the same and you must have all senses working all the time
Just by curiosity, in which places have you feel safe?
As a retired Gringo (Foreigner) living in Colombia for over 5 years in and outside Bogota, I have not had any issues with other people, homeless people or other tourists.... And I have worked and lived in the UAE, UK, Europe, Asia and the USA. A happy man.
ok, well a lot of other people have had troubles. And you can search on TH-cam to see for yourself.
Good for you and I'm glad you enjoy Colombia, but I have to say the UAE is the country I experienced as the safest during my time there. No homeless people, no fentanyl heads, high standard of living, and lots of friendly people.
@@helenefalk500, you mean Arabic men were friendly towards a WESTERN WOMAN?
|
am
shocked!
@@ReverendDr.Thomas Yes, friendly and courteous.
@@ReverendDr.Thomaswhy are you shocked? I lived in KSA some years ago and I was feeling so safe and respected... They guys aren't event looking into women's eyes!
I agree with the person above, the safest countries I have visited were the Arab ones.
Bogota is one of my favorite cities in the world...and I've been to hundreds in 40 countries on 6 continents. It is so beautiful and the people are incredibly kind. "Don't dangle a papaya!"
5 continents*
@@sanexpreso2944 Antartica?
Having visited since 1990s, lived there since 2010s and married to Colombiana, Let me simplify. It is a class system with zones of safe and unsafe within city. The wealthy have security, servants, private schools, private doctors, delivery, and stay in safe zones. The middle class are DIY on social healthcare system, and are both in safe and unsafe zones. The vast majority, the poor, live day to day to survive, high crime, and stay in unsafe zones and barrios. My middle class degreed wife experienced lots of theft and physical assault using public areas during day before we met. She always warned not to look rich or show expensive electronics or jewelry in unsafe zones (public areas). The constant lying and cheating of some was tiresome. Never could let your guard down. To escape crime, we had to buy a home in upscale bubble safe zone and primarily stay in that area until her death. Gates and window bars on ground floor. There were a few attempted break-ins while we traveled. We did not have cameras, security or servants. I always carried weapons in public. I have not visited Colombia since her death in 2017. It is safer and more expensive today than 1990s for sure. My experience was there were cheaper and safer areas overall than Bogota in Colombia and the world. Every country has bad areas some more, some less.
Pretty accurate description.
"Luck is where preparation meets opportunity." I like that.
I wrote it down actually 😅
There are many places with opportunity right now: th-cam.com/video/1p-pC_j4TEo/w-d-xo.html
Yeah, great bit of wisdom.... I've heard it many times over the years.
I have been almost everywhere in the world including Syria (before the civil war) and Colombia, and the city I felt most unsafe in was central Washington D.C (suburbs are not too bad). Have not been to San Fransisco and these days have no desire to. Thanks for educating people about the world.
Thanks for sharing your experience!
I have a buddy living in bogota right now. His only complaint is that they are doing rolling water shut offs every ten days. So every ten days you will have no water for 24 hours. Other wise he feels safe, but he doesn’t drink, occasionally goes dancing and not getting any hookers, lol. He has been on dates with one or two women who have him weird vibes, but nothing other than that. He’s also built a great social circle in a couple months of being there.
One or two women? That's tough 😅
Getting hookers can be done safely, but you need to do some research on the internet forums before.
The "mangitos" vs "paypays" let the games begin!
The perception that foreigners have of Colombia is based on Netflix series, I have seen more foreigners obsessed with Escobar, Colombians no longer care, there are more cities to go to, Bucaramanga, Pereira, Ibagué, Armenia which in 1999 suffered an earthquake that completely devastated it and now it has recovered are undervalued destinations
I don't think that Netflix are responsible for that perception. When Colombia is showed in the news outside of the country, mainly your find notes about the "civil war", or drug gangs or things like that. But we the colombians are working to improve the image, inside and outside the country.
In fact, the image that foreigners have of all of Latin America is based on films, Netflix series and propaganda against the continent made by Hollywood. I did research at the University on this topic. What the research showed is that those who have the truest image of Latin America are Europeans, although some still have an image based on films. Americans are the opposite, very few Americans have a real idea about the continent because they have traveled to several countries and learned good things about it, but most Americans base it on films because they have never been there.
What the research also showed is that the USA is afraid that its citizens will really get to know Latin America, that each country has its own culture, its own history, its gastronomy, its music, and that Americans prefer to live in one of these countries like Colombia for example than the USA. That's why Netflix and Hollywood need to make films and series defaming Latin America with super stereotypical content to prevent Americans from traveling to these countries, creating a fear that sometimes doesn't make sense.
@@MrFtriana Colombia has good things too. I'm Brazilian but I've never visited Colombia and I know that the country has many incredible things. This happens in my country too and throughout Latin America. Newspapers from abroad will always prefer to talk about the bad things about our countries, "forgetting" or omitting the good things. This is propaganda as I said in the comment, this is on purpose. Whenever newspapers abroad talk about Brazil (my country) it is always about deforestation in the Amazon, crime, drugs and murder. This year we have already reduced deforestation in the Amazon by more than 60%, and I haven't seen any newspaper from abroad talking about it. The government has a project to reforest deforested areas and some of these areas have already been planted with new trees, and I haven't seen any newspapers from abroad talking about this project. Murders dropped by half and no foreign newspaper spoke either, they all omitted this news. The same strategy applies to Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Paraguay, etc.
@@lumesquita5524 yeah, i hear about that. Is more like the Usa people still have the same perception about hispanic America since the 80's, maybe ignoring all the struggle that we have to do to improve our own situation. I don't blame them, but really they have to see beyond the news and the streaming. They need to know the real Hispanic América, beyond the crime and all the bad things.
Rule #1: No dar papaya
Rule # 2: Be distrustful of strangers talking to you in the street, even if their apperance looks harmless (if you're going to interact, keep some distance)
Rule #3: Dont go to places you shouldnt go, especially at night.
Otherwise, you're fine, just ask the locals about the dos and donts
This advice is valid for everywhere in public, although the nicer the neigbourhood the less you have to worry about it.
I'll elaborate a bit with what I've learned living here my whole life, it might be interesting for some of you:
Thugs, or the people who would mugg you, live in a different reality than most watching this video. They are incredibly streetwise and are atuned to things we are not. Their world paradigm is very survival-centric, which means they think in terms of prey and predator (literally). This means that they are sensitive to particular behaviours that would indicate someone would be an easy prey with minimal risk to themselves (they are very risk averse ironically). Their sense of morality works somehow like - if you gave me a reason to mugg you then its youre own fault, not mine.
Practically, this boils down to walking down a street with body language that is too distracted, not aware of the surroundings, showing an item of value, lost, etc... If you walk with purpose and are generally aware of whats going on around you, you reduce the probability of catching their attention significantly. If anyone wierd talks to you, don't be overly friendly or hostile - be quick, direct, to the point, and get on with it. Don't show fear. In fact, ignore if you can, dont engage/open a communication channel in the first place. Now, if a thuggish looking person asks you for the time... hahah game over its very likely that youre about to get mugged, thats like their move.
If youre going to get mugged, just comply, dont make a scene, give them youre phone or watch (which is what they usually ask), and even if this sounds horrible, try to be friendly about it. Its better than getting stabbed. This is incredibly rare though, you have to be hanging out somewhere you shouldnt be hanging out in the first place and then making a scene.
Hope this was interesting!
Lol Bogota sucks
You're on point. But the Bogota's come back home alive instructions manual is a lot bigger than this.
Like, don't talk money in front of the cleaning lady, you will kidnapped.
Keep the porteros happy (they know your daily schedule)
Never ever take a cab (you will be kidnapped Paseo Millonario style)
Don't talk to hot ladies (yes.. you guessed that, you will be kidnapped, or drugged, prob. both)
Never ever hand over your credit card to anyone (it will be cloned)
Check you're not being followed after withdrawing cash from the bank, you'll be "fleteado"
and a looooooong etc.
Be ready for a lot of learning folks. hahaha
@@aglitchinthematrix157
@@aglitchinthematrix157: The channel "Life with David" goes over everything you said here in detail".
Good advice, even in San Francisco.
My first trip to Bogota was completely by chance. I was on a business trip for my government employer to another country and a coworker tasked to Bogota got sick and I had to take over. I loved the place. It was nothing what the old timers said. I later was told that they made a mistake sending me because too many young people realize that their are other options. I am going to check it out more and might move. I saw a nascent tech scene and see some opportunity.
I live in Baltimore and I can say I felt safer in Afghanistan.
Thank you for sharing your experience! It's great to hear about your positive impressions of Bogota.
Never been robbed in Central Am, MX, China, US, UK, but was robbed in Mongolia at an outdoor swap n shop. Ironic thing is the Mongolians are some of the sweetest people I have met anywhere, MX close second.
I worked for the federal government for over 20 years and spent about 15 of those in Colombia. All over the country--nice parts and the....not-so-nice parts. This video is a very good, balanced and accurate depiction of what Bogotá is today. I LOVE the city. To me, it is far better than a city like Chicago, or someplace like that. The good far overrides the bad in Bogotá. By a long shot! Unlike so many cities in the world, Bogotá is getting BETTER. You can't say that in many places in the U.S.
I live in the Netherlands adjacent to a bad neighbourhood and there's sirens and police helicopters zooming over my house on the daily.
Wow where in the netherlands do you live if you feel comfortable sharing?
The worst neighborhood in the Netherlands is still equivalent to a cottage in candyland. Relax.
Good, I guess you are ready to move to Soacha. You'll be the bad boy there for sure. XD
I have been living in La Candelaria, Bogota since 2015. I drive all around the country, I take public transportation everywhere and I also film with expensive equipment and I also use my phone on the street. This is my personal experience, but I never had one single issue.
We will start publishing videos in July again and I will also publish a video about safety in Colombia (not only Bogota).
cheers
frank
Hi Frank. Hope all is well.
Hello Frank! I've never had any issues in Colombia either. Just use common sense. Btw, I really miss your videos...they're actually the best of Colombia. Thanks for sharing!
@@HoustonGuy Thx, next week we will start publishing again
@@COLOMBIAFRANK I am Bogotan and you are a bit crazy, don't give Papaya haha, but I am very gald to hear your stay in Colombia has been nice
You've been lucky, that doesn´t mean is a good idea to pull out a cell phone on this country streets... Take care.
I lived in the wealthy part of Bogota for a month and felt super safe. However the day I left someone got shot dead a few meters away from where I always had my coffee.
Usaquen?
Is that why you left? ;)
@@PatNeedhamUSA El Chico
@@MrHarumakiSensei Nope, flight home was already booked. And I'm sure my home destination is probably unsafer than Bogota aside from phone theft.
Sadly that can happen anywhere.
I dont know... I live in in Spain where there are lots of Colombians, and they moved because they don't feel safe there. It is also to this day, complicit some of the most dire narco-traffic
Most of those colombians come from hell a.k.a any Estrato under 4. Wealthy colombians don't send their kids to EspAngola, but the US.
What part of Spain has lots of Colombians?
I keep seeing videos about "carteristas" in Barcelona, Madrid, and so many other places in Spain. It is becoming very unsafe.
Los colombianos que se van son los que no tienen nada aca, como casa o empleo, la mayoria por ganar supuestamente mejor, pero a cambio de estar lejos de la familia.
Si claro tenemos violencia pero no como hace muchos años, los que se van, es porque quieren ganar mas dinero. algunos son solteros otros con familia. Pero muy pocos por la supuesta violencia.
Si existen bandas criminales pero estan en el negocio de la drogas pero ellos siempre estan bien camuflados haciendo sus negocios , y los robos de telefonos es lo mas comun. Tengo casi 30 años que no veo un robo y que me roben.
Usually they are from Cali or poorer areas, if you find bogotans for example they will mostly studying or working legally abroad. The ones you're seeing are a particular group of people who instead of trying another city went to Spain where they can work in jobs and receive a better salary compared to the same job in Colombia
Went to Cartagena last year in September. Never felt unsafe.
I been talking about this with one of my buddies over the last week. Safety in Georgia vs Colombia. I tell him, yes, there are certain parts of Colombia that may dangerous to be in but I'm not in those areas and have no reason to be. I've spent a lot of time in Colombia and never once did I feel uncomfortable in any city I was in except for Barranquilla. From certain parts I saw in Barranquilla. But I was only there for 3 days. But besides that, I've been all over Colombia. From the northern coast (Cartagena to Santa Marta, Rioacha, Cabo de la Vela) to Medellín to Bogotá to Bucaramanga to Cali and Popayan in the south and have always felt safe. Use your common sense wherever you go. Ironic but the third week of being here in Tbilisi I was assaulted while going down the escalator at one of the metro stations. And Georgia is considered one of the safest countries in the world. It shocked the heck out of me that that happened. Never would have thought that would happen here.
Did you report the theft? Maybe then the "safest" rating would be brought down a notch to reflect accuracy...
@@Omar_Facio My response disappeared.
‘Husband got his wallet stolen yesterday in the good ol’ US of A.
Y tienes buenos amigos que te cuidan.
Based on my personal experience....the crazy stories are from people who do not follow the basic protocols while in Colombia.
You have several homes in nice, safe, comfortable homes in neighborhoods around the world. I want ONE. I am putting all my efforts into this endeavor. I now live in a small well off town in Ecuador. I do worry about the country in the case of a great crisis in the future, but for me it is the best I can find. In a world crisis Ecuador is a pretty good place in the grand scheme of things. I did visit Colombia, Ecuadors neighbor, and it was inherently more dangerous than Ecuador.
Isn't Ecuador starting to struggle very hard with cartels?
I know it's popular to say Colombia is perfectly safe, but in reality it can be a bit dangerous. To start, Colombia is one of my favorite Latin American countries... I lived in Medellin for a year, and go back somewhat frequently. I've travelled around the country and speak decent Spanish. I would say that one definitely has to exercise more caution in Colombia than many other countries I've travelled. Most Colombians I know also will express that they feel Colombia is a somewhat dangerous place overall. But again, it's a great country.
the reality is that cities like Berlin, Vienna, Prague, Warsaw, Dubai, Singapore, Shanghai, Tokyo are much safer than Bogota while Bogota is still a lot safer than many other cities in Central- or South America or South Africa/Africa ...
I live in Medellin for 7 years now. I have been robbed at gunpoint once and pickpocketed once. Don't leave the house with anything you can't lose. 🤨
I have been robbed in Houston at gunpoint, pickpocketed in Paris and luggage stolen in Brazil...but no issues in Colombia. Yes, crime does exist...however, people tend to exaggerate because they like to play the victim.
@@HoustonGuy how long did you live in Houston? In Bogota? In Paris etc.? How different was your behavior? There are many criterion which people with their 'personal experience' often forget to take into the account. It is already not the same if one has in one country to take care not to show the smartphone in public while you can do that in most parts of Europe without any problem (or even think about that). If one already thinks about that as safety procedure (confirmed by official advice) and/or one lives mostly within a few kind of gated bubbles then thats already a sign of a limited life quality and worthless 'experiences', because thats not comparable (it is actually a bad choice to live in such an environment when you could change that)
Medellín doesn't represent us Colombians far more than having beautiful women, other than that they are a war zone
Spot on. I've only had trouble once in years in Bogota. And it was an unlucky situation - just pure chance. Bogotá is greater than Medellin. But Lima beats Bogota for safety. Plus, the foods better in Peru.
Colombia beats Peru on almost everything. Colombian food is delicious too. I don't see anything special about Peruvian food, except the ceviche. Colombia is like 10 countries in one. Each Department (States) offers a different gastronomy. A very rich and diverse culture. And let's talk about women, the most beautiful in the world. And the list goes on and on.
@@inolvidable. Colombia wins on women and coffee, I'll give you that. It's why both my Colombian roast and my girlfriend are imports.
But food? Nope. Regional gastronomy is a thing in Peru too. And Peru smokes Colombia for gastronomy. The food in Peru is lightyears ahead of Colombia. As are the cocktails!
White girls travelling alone have very real challenges. Women in general but white women are especially at risk in non-white nations. As a seasoned traveller, people don’t talk about this taboo subject.
Especially solo white women who are attractive
There is no special associated with being white as a woman, at least in Colombia. It is dangerous for alll of them
You don't even look white, but more Indian. You can even pass as a Colombian. And Colombia has the most beautiful women in the world. So, if it s about beauty, they won't even notice you.
very interesting for me the most important is dont show your phone in the street and maybe walk a little fast when you are in place that you dont know
I went to Bogota from 5th of June to the 13th and I walked over 40km + used a city bike thru the week, I had my cellphone out most of the time and never felt like someone was gonna grab it or steal from me. I'm from Montreal in Quebec and I can say where I visited was much safer than downtown Montreal lol, Colombia has very safe parks and places thru the day and are very calm areas at night as well. 😀😀
Lol. I am from Colombia and i have lived in Bogotá 4 years and have spent there months in Montreal. You could not be more mistaken. I am glad you had a good time in Bogotá, but they mug people lot in Bogotá. This dude is just rich and walks around nice neighborhoods but I lived 20 block from him and was mugged about four times in 4 years, just going out to take the bus and shit. It's not like a had a "risky" lifestyle.
when you don't spend everyday in a place or you don't have to be in places you don't want and you have money for drivers in case you have to go to an area you don't know, then I bet most cities in the world are as safe as Montreal.
I mean I heard there were crazy persons in the Montreal metro taking their dicks out to girls and shit, but in the buses of bogotá they have killed people and even bus drivers
"I live in the reality I've created and I think that you can create that as well"
I'm a full time digital nomad capitalist, love to see these videos!
Bogotá is the best choice. Is you are living in a nice neigboorhood, you are living in a so nice place in the world, Bogotá by climate, bussiness, elegance (it is like London tendency), bike city, parks, arts (a lot of cultural movement, I recommend the affordable concerts of classical music of Filarmónica of Bogotá) and safe. Bogotá only missing the subway but it is in construction.
Thanks for coming you're very welcome here
Thank you!
Bogota es como la Londres de suramerica. muy linda ciudad. y elegante.
My cousin owns a film production company in Detroit and has to have 3 armed security guards
Wow, that's unexpected, why is that? 🤔
@@Johnnie-d9b you seem miserable. Hopefully life gets better for you.
Key word: Reality you have created!!! 👑
I feel pretty safe in the coffee region. I can't say that about Bogota however. I was robbed in the BOG airport last year - took my eye off my cart for a few seconds. Lucky the small bag I had did not have anything really important in it. They should lock down that airport like they do in the Philippines. Only let people in with tickets.
As someone that has lived in Bogota my whole life, I agree 100% with your opinion. If you have enough means and are willing to take safety measures, you can build a very safe lifestyle in Bogota, even as a permanent resident.
It probably holds true for other cities, but it's a bit of a stretch to generalize. I suggest changing the title to Bogota instead of Colombia in general.
In spite of that, thank you for debunking myths about this city I love so much.
Currently in Medellín buying property, with every city in the world there are safe areas and dangerous areas. On this trip I've seen people leave backpacks with laptops unattended for hours in a busy cafe in the middle of the city with no one touching them. I've also seen local women leave their purses at the dinner table at touristy restaurants for well over 30 minutes while they were taking scenic pictures, again no one touched them. There's of course pickpockets and petty thieves on the streets but if you're aware of your surroundings you typically won't have a bad time. The people here are super friendly and even if you don't speak Spanish are very accommodating.
no, not every city has dangerous areas. already that you believe this bullshit shows that you have no clue about the world. many ppl also in safe cities consider some neighborhoods as bad but there is a difference between really dangerous neighborhoods and just psychological 'feeling a bit more unsafe if walking at night' (or even dont care about because the entire city is so safe that it is just a 'bad habit' from higher crime cities/cultures - or entirely psychological imaginations due to some media/movies)
Hi 👋 Very much enjoying your videos! Thanks. Just wanted to point out that Dubai is ranked below cities like San Francisco simply because the majority of inhabitants of Dubai are low skilled migrant workers who make services and construction possible. They have to face all kinds of abuse, including criminal deaths due to the corruption and control of the state.
Great Video. Yes, the biggest problem is the motorcycle thieves and they can strike anywhere! Always roll up your windows at stop lights is what my wife reminds me! You also have to be very careful to not run motorcycles over, it is almost like they have a death wish! My first trip to Colombia was in 2004 and I heard the same comments below as I do today. Been to every major Colombian city with no problems. Nothing has changed with people's perception of the place, because that is what they have seen on their TV shows and in the movies. People will believe what they want to believe. I never found trouble then and the same for now. LOL, I currently have been living in a Bogota gated community for the past 3 years with no problems. The trick is to blend in with the average well-off person and let other people show off their wealth (or debt) with their fancy cars and be the targets. Recently got my Colombian drivers license and even drive with the windows down (I roll up windows at stop lights in iffy areas) with no problems. My worst run-in was with a pillar in my parking garage at my apartment complex, yes my poor car has a nice scratch now. I recently returned to my home city in the midwest states and did not feel safe. I could not wait to get back home to Bogota where I feel safe. You should buy the Nomad Capitalist book and start there if you are even thinking about “going to where you are treated best”. Lots of good stuff for rookies with no experience.
Been to Cartagena, been to places in the Philippines. Felt safe in both places.
Nice video and appreciate you sharing good experiences about Colombia
My problem would be the leftist (crime tolerant) current president of Colombia. While at the moment Bogotá is not much worse than many big cities, the incentives for an increasing wave of crime are aligning.
Bogota sorprende , una movida cultural interesante, gente y lugares cheveres
A mejorar infraestructura de movilidad
Sentido de pertenencia por los nacidos y no nacidos en Bogota
Seguridad , orden y aseo ..
Por lo demás y su sabana o alrededores de Bogota son bellos.
👌💯🇨🇴
Tucker laugh HAH …. Andrew’s sense of humor and delivery is awesome… he will be matter-of fact for a few minutes and then drop a sly remark
can you conceal carry there? the tucker laugh 😂
No.
Cooking a better Colombia open to the world, new opportunities with a new think
Me alegra que te haya gustado Bogotá y que la hayas considerado segura, pero una cosa es bien cierta, eso depende de los sitios por dónde transitas. No es lo mismo que vivas y hagas negocios en el norte de la ciudad que en el sur o en otras localidades. Si bien es cierto que la seguridad es relativa, debes siempre estar alerta. Pero por supuesto, valoro tu positivismo, gracias por compartir tus experiencias en mi país.
Como colombiana, aunque vivo en Estados Unidos, crecí en mi ciudad y tengo una buena idea de cómo es, ya que voy cada año y me quedo tres y cuatro meses. Es una ciudad grande y hay gente por todos lados, no importa la vecindad, pobre o rica, ladrones hay por todas partes, una situación agravada por la inmigración de los últimos años, pero no se puede decir que es una ciudad imposible de vivir.
You need to be careful when you take ubers, indrivers, cabify's and also please never take a taxi in the street and always call the taxis and send the location to a friend and the details of the car that is going to pick you up. Don't walk in the street with your phone in the hands and be attentive to your surroundings.
If you can't use your phone while walking outside, it's not safe.
Just don’t be a weak beta and you’ll have no issue. I walked around all over outside the nice areas and no one tried me.
@@mep593 have you been walking around with your iphone out? If so you just got lucky...nothing to do with being beta/alpha (and you probably aren't alpha btw)
@filmbuff4 It highly depends on the area where you are, I live in Bogota, and it's in public transportation where there is a real risk.
Then Guadalajara isn't safe either, based on this statement.
@@mep593 I never have any issues. The idea that I would not take out my phone seems silly to me. If I would perceive an area to be so unsafe that that would be necessary I would not go there, but so far that has never happened. Have never been in Bogotá (besides transferring at the airport there) but I have been to Acapulco twice and had no problems there.
Every large city has it issues. I have lived in New York City, Pittsburgh and Atlanta in U.S. problems. Rio de Janeiro no real problems, but you have to stay out of areas. And you have to beware of your surroundings. My current city is smaller, but is very safe .
La ultima vez que me robaron fue como en el año 1999. Iba en transporte publico y nos asaltaron, hace mucho no vivo eso, pero es mucha suerte, actualmente en cualquier lugar del mundo te pueden robar. Aunque desde hace mucho no me roban ni veo robar.
I have a few comments on this topic since I've been to Colombia several times, I speak Spanish fluently and I mingled with locals amd ex-pats who are not millionaires in that country.
Firstly, it's true that Colombia is a pretty safe country overall, especially if you compare it to historical standards. One of my hosts in Colombia was in the air force in the 80's and 90's, and he gave an honest breakdown of the security standards for civilians. Essentially, things have dramatically improved, even between 2005 and 2015, which is great.
However, there are still security concerns in Colombia, as Andrew alluded to. You can find articles about how American men get drugged and robbed by women they meet on dating apps, and they generally do this while meeting in private on a first date. Also, pickpocketing is a fairly common occurence, so locals will tell you to not wear flashy watches or attract attention in other ways. If you have security, obviously that's less of a concern, but most people don't.
I personally feel safe enough in Colombia that I will spend a few months there next year, but I would warn others to not participate in the nightlife and get involved with drugs or prostitutes. I have no interest in that, but I know some people do.
I would add that Colombian politicians are aware that crime is a problem, and they do address it in their discourse. For example, there's been a big crackdown on human trafficking (thankfully), and I expect things to continue trending in the right direction.
Of course, wealth gaps between the rich and the poor contribute to these problems, but the middle class is growing in the country. I love Colombia and I'm optimistic for the future, although I still have some security concerns at the moment.
Best of luck, and subscribe to my channel @philsidock. 😂
There really is something about Bogotá. I really love its setting; high altitude tropical setting amidst the backdrop of brick buildings and lush mountains.
What every person forgets is that they will always have areas in the cities they live in that they wouldn't want to go. We all create our bubbles.
I wonder however if it is it easier to create your bubble in Bogotá or São Paulo...
what every person like you forget is that there are in difference to your nonsense of course cities (prague, vienna, munich, dubai, singapore etc.) where you dont have to care where you go. you really have to LEARN what really safer places are and why. you find in almost all cities ppl who talk about bad neighborhoods. but there is a difference between a so called 'bad neighborhood' in Berlin, Hamburg or Warsaw and one in Bogota or Johannisburg.
I live in Metro Manila, so I'd like to think I'm not too out of touch with reality. I earn well enough and I do not live in Makati or BGC. I have found a place where I can get good affordable food, entertainment and services. For a wealthy potential resident, I think the same can be done in Bogotá.
I generally do not prioritize having safety as a pedestrian THROUGHOUT the whole city since I will never go to every part of the city (Metro Manila is a cluster of cities). I think most city dwellers are the same; you'll never want to visit every single part of your city. You only need your bubble.
We are in Quetzaltenango, the 2nd largest city in Guatemala, and feel very safe. We have never spent time in Guatemala City and hear it is dangerous unless you are in certain neighborhoods. ( we have also lived in Costa Rica and Nicaragua and Guatemala is by far our favorite).
We have been to Bogota and liked it very much, BUT, I'm curious why someone might pick Bogota over Buenas Aires, if looking for a great south American city.
As a Colombian that has lived in Bogotá most of my time, Bogotá is NOT safe or a good city, BUT if you are rich you will always can use your money to live in a bubble and be happy and also travel, that's what he does. Nowadays Bogotá is way worst because of the millions of venezuelan homeless on top of the already big misery of Colombians. BUT again if you have money is not that bad as extremely poor countries like Haiti, I think if you are rich even in Haiti you could build your Buble and live happy.
That's if you can really look the other side in presence of extreme misery. The funny thing is, every little piece of mercy and sympathy left on you will be exploited and used against you till you become cynical. That's what Bogota society is made of. Don't blame them, it's survival instinct.
@@aglitchinthematrix157 where are you from? You sound Colombian
tienes razon asi funcionan las cosas. si se tiene plata se vive mucho mejor
Sadly, you're one of those negative Colombians that trashes his own country. Saying Bogota is not a "good" city speaks volumes about your negative attitude/energy. Yes, the influx of 4 MILLION Venezuelans has increased crime but Colombia continues to be beautiful. And regardless of wealth/income, we ALL live in a bubble here in the US, France, etc. You must live in southern Bogota.
I left two phones in Medellin and Ecuador in six months of living there
Try the coffe axis. 10X better
If you feel safe in Bogotá you will feel safer in the rest of Colombia, you will feel like a king in other cities
I don't know why I am following your videos because I have no capital nor am I a nomad. What I am is Colombian. And also an occasional traveler. And also a sometimes impractical philosopher. I have come to a simple conclusion: in life, you don't want to be too comfortable or too stressed. I think going where you are best treated is sound advise, but if you are treated too well, you might get bored. And boredom is a terrible sin. :)
15 years living in Colombia, I’ve never been stolen…
That's right. The city, which I came to call home, Panama City, is the safest metropolitan one in the larger area.
It depends on the barrio, but mostly all people walk around with their eyes on the phone. That even gets annoying, when you are always the one taking care for both people to not bump into each other.
But I enjoy the safety.
Harsh covid lockdowns though..
It's safe, you just can't walk around aftar dark 😅
Even after dark is good enough for walking
yeah phone snatching is common in other major cities like London... it is just common sense to not give opportunities to be robbed.
Somehow people accept what happens in their own country and melt down when they see the same thing somewhere else.
You can easily walk around most areas of San Francisco and DC with a 50k watch and handbag with your phone out and you’ll have a higher chance of getting hit by a car (or lightning) than being robbed.
This is why I always shake my head when I hear people trying to say Bogota, São Paulo, etc are “safer” than a lot of other Western cities up north and in Europe. There are neighborhoods in every city on earth that are bad, but if I can’t casually text while walking down the sidewalk in the center of town, it’s not safe.
Another aspect to consider is police presence. Some of the most trafficked and crowded areas of LatAm cities lack basic police presence, even government areas where you would assume to feel the safest.
Finally, this makes Mexico City look great if you ignore the water issues. You *can* causally walk through most central and even secondary neighborhoods with nice items and your phone out without worrying about being robbed. Even Centro, which can get extremely crowded, at least has heavy policy presence.
Colombia is a lawless s-hole, especially if you are a gringo.
Nomad Capitalist - please do your opinion regarding cities in Brazil, including Recife
Thanks for the suggestion. Have you read how to get the Digital Nomad visa for Brazil: nomadcapitalist.com/expat/brazil-digital-nomad-visa/
@@nomadcapitalist thanks for the link.
I've got a couple of gringo friends who were wondering, what if we go back to the States, they were a bit tired of the Colombian chaos. It took them a month to come back. Apparently, the US is not what it used to be. So they say. They feel safer in Bogotá than in NY, they got mugged in Central park.
I'll pass ^^
Hey NC, please consider TRNC!
Can I sign up to a newsletter without becoming a client?
Thanks for your interest! Sign up to our newsletter here: nomadcapitalist.com/email/
Good day sir. My name is Cesar Alvarez and for a while I’ve been watching your videos and have been trying to use them to educate my self and learn more of how to grow as an investor. I would love to know if there is such a course or program that you provide for young mates as my self to help me grow and if there is how can I arrange to purchase it.
Best regards
Because you don't have to use Tinder there. I think you are married, right?
Some USA folks throwing some bad vibes about Colombia when cities such a Baltimore, St Louis and Philadelphia aren't that safe. If you get lost in the wrong neighborhood you will get in trouble. Colombia is a dangerous country but if you are the type of dude who came here to find working girls and get wild with crazy parties then you might get hurt. There are mnuseums, historical places and nice libraries to boost your intelligence but I know some guys specially youngters aren't into that. Stay safe in your countries fellows..
I feel safe in Brazil after 20 years in USA especially in New York where is a dirty city and crime is bad
looking the way you do you want be safe anywhere in the world, you will get attention from any maliantro with just your appearance.
Yeah i've heard way too many horror stories about people getting drugged off scopolamine and taken for all their valuable possessions. You can search on TH-cam and see how many people have been robbed. So i'm skipping Colombia and going to Buenos Aires Argentina myself.
Perfectly fair
Interesting video! I served in the military and spent a lot of time in Columbia. The first time I went there was in 2004. While we were in Bogota, we had to travel in armored non-tactical vehicles (like the MB you were riding in). There were still local factions like the FARC that were in the narco trade as well as kidnapping high profile and business people to fund their operations. The Alvaro Uribe administration did a lot of work to reform older policies and "clean up" Columbia. The FARC signed the peace treaty in 2016. The last time I was in Bogota was in 2017. We no longer travelled around in armorered vehicles and could travel anywhere we wanted. Ironically, I was still in the military and stationed in the North Bay area of California (between San Francisco and Sacramento). I found that Bogota was MUCH nicer and safer than San Francisco. As you said, the climate is much cooler than the rest of Columbia. The city is designed more like a European city than a LATAM one. The Columbian people are very friendly and I found that Bogota has many highly-skilled professionals and a great quality of life there. The only barrier for me is that I don't speak Spanish that well, but I now live in the DFW area, so I'm dealing with spanish just as much here. Right now, Columbia is much more attractive than many places in America. This is coming from someone who is pretty patriotic. Facts are facts though.
tucker laugh, hehe well done
No one would willingly live in a crappy unsafe place if you have the money go for it people are just piste they can’t afford to live in better areas
I wouldn't call a place where you can't get your phone out on the street for fear of getting robbed safe at all. Those people that would rob you for a phone - some of them would hurt you for no reason at all, because it's their idea of having fun. That's how a lot of criminals think.
From personal experience, I can tell you that there are countries where people are just generally aggressive, and those where they aren't. I was born and lived most of my life in a former, in a good and well-off family, nowhere near any disturbed areas or crime. Yet, almost all of my friends, who were from similar families, experienced robbery, some at knifepoint, some were maimed, I know of a rape and a couple rape attempts, etc., etc....
Personally, I was tracked a few times by would-be robbers as a kid, as an adult attacked by an angry mob at the city center without any provocation whatsoever, witnessed quite a bunch of vicious fights, had to use pepper spray on people, had to threaten people with knives and bats, and that's not taking into account quite a bunch of occasions when some no-do-goods were obviously sizing me up, but decided to look for someone else. All of this happened in the center or some other very good neighborhood of a large city that wasn't supposed to be quite dangerous to begin with.
I've been living in a smaller town of a generally peaceful country for a couple years now, and I can tell you: the difference is immense. It's not about crime, really: as you grow up in that "aggressive" place, you learn that people in general don't wish you any good, that many of them will hurt you, given an opportunity, just because it's how they are.
When you move to a "peaceful" country, you immediately know the difference. I go whenever I want, wherever I want, and there was not a single occasion when I had an urge to reach for a weapon and grab it in my pocket. I used to do this a few times a year in previous life. Even dogs are friendlier here - and I'm not the only guy from my old country that noticed that.
All the people saying they never had safety issue must lear to read and study, read statistics.
I never had issues where I have been, although people complain of being unsafe.
Bogotá has a high murder number, it's unsafe.
There might be safe areas, but it's a a lot unsafer than Europe or North America.
Create my own reality.........I like that idea:)
Because you are rich enough to shield you from the crime?
Not an insult.
Do not take it personal. He is speaking to his targeted audience. Learn and move on.
You don't have to be rich to be safe in Colombia, you guys watch too much movies
@@__JH_ 😅
I liked your videos, don't pay attention to bad comments.
Colombia's positives outshine the negatives. It is not Afghanistan, it is a little trouble with lots of fun. Life in Technicolor.
Whether the environment is safe or not. Its not ideal to be walking while using your phone, except you are receiving a call or using gps to navigate.
I’m not a wealthy person at the time, but i always work extremely hard just so I don’t have to live in a bad neighborhood.
Having to hide your stuffs to feel "safe" is not what I say... I feel safe. I never had to hide my phone in USA or Tokyo... I dont think you have to do that in Netherland, Switzerland o Sweden... I am from Argentina I know what is walk with fear at night or you dont feel safe every time you heard a motorcycle ... Good channel btw
Well, in the meantime Germany,France and England is more dangerous. There you can get stabbed for nothing. (European expat here, living 25 years in Bogotá).
But you have to say, that the crime rate in Bogotá is increasing. And not because of Colombians, its because of the migrants (from Venezuela).
What is the deal with phones? In the has-been unsafe USA, we do not feel that people want to steal out phones. People have their phones out on their table or adjacent seat. Nobody seems to want to take our phone. Is it a costly iPhone thing?
Andrew talk about saudi arabia not renewing its oil sale contract in dollars, how does that affect the dollar as strong currency for use overseas in your opinion?
My opinion is to diversify
A friend of mine’s best friend was murdered by the FARC in front of his son because he didn’t pay extortion money for his business.
Lmao why wouldn't he pay ? Action causes reaction
"no dar papaya" folks just follow what the locals do an you will be fine. I've lived in Colombia for 4 years and never been robbed or scammed. It's a matter of having your head out of your ass which sadly most Americans don't
Im from the hood. I’m comfortable now. I’m not moving back. God willing.
aho!
never expected this.
You feel safe in Columbia because you are always in your luxurious cocoon. Why don't you try walking outside of your shell and see how dangerous it actually is. People are being kidnapped, robbed everyday..
Bogotá is comparably as unsafe as an average American metropoli, the thing is almost all the criminas never go to jail even if they go to court, so the number of criminals may not increase a lot but will never decrease a bit
Tbh, a lot of tourists come to Colombia looking for parties, drugs and sex. They find themselves with a very big advantage in exchange rates and this drives them to flaunt their money by flashing luxury in public. I wonder why they find themselves being robbed and/or scammed?
Colombia is still a very unequal country and people resent the fear rich people show towards the rest of the population. As long as you don’t behave like a naive wannabe narco, try to stay on the legal side of society and take basic precautions, you should be ok.
third!