 Summer School in Colombia!
Sara wrote:
>
> Thanks T. with the spelling. I wasn't thinking to tell you the truth. I
> will more aware next time. I think I am going to research more, but I just
> wanted some personal experience is all. Thanks for your help.
>
> Sara
Do not travel at night.
Do not use jewelry or a shiny watch.
Use local clothing styles.
Do not speak english loudly, better yet, at all. Try to avoid the other gringos.
'gringo' is not an isult in Colombia as it seems to be in Texas.
Get used to people staring. Stare back, look at people in the eyes while you talk
like only lovers do it in the US. Do not stare at the poor or the weird but do not
ignore them. Kiss in the cheek when you greet people. Do not forget that family is
a great deal in Colombia and most people do not try to avoid it like in the US.
At all times be aware of your suroundings. If they look suspicious, do not walk, run.
Do not go to bars or restaurants without trusted company. Let others know
where you are and will be and for how long.
Carry some a little cash in case of holdup. Carry a credit card if you have a curent
balance on it. Do not carry a debit card if your balance of your accounts is more
than ~500 dollars. Do not take it if it shows monthly deposits of more than say 500.
Again: Never, ever, travel at night. Use an airplane if you can.
Do not get drunk. Skip the vegetables and strawberries, eat local fruits.
I have used skype and other VoIP from here to Colombia. Email ok. A few people there
have cable but most have internet over phone lines with very narrow bandwith. Taking your
phone there? It seems there are plenty of people selling theirs, charging by the minute.
(probably cloned from foreigners calling from the airport)
Luck and have fun.
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