Mustang is considering breaking one of his golden rules of travel and visiting the same place 2x in a row. Colombia was THAT good.

Anybody else have plans to be in Cali and/or Bogota around that time?

Planning Cartgena 10/6/01 thru 10/10/01. Should I be planning Cali or Bogota instead?

I will be in Colombia fom sept 24 to oct 5.. Think that I will be in Cartagena, although may try Barranquilla or Medellin..

Forgot will also be in Cartagena from Nov 5 to 16.. want to see Miss Colombia contest

Treeshark,
Too bad; sound like I may miss you by a day. Still trying to decide between Cali & Cartagena.

-Cali easier to get to & good rep for beautiful women but not to much monger info out there.

-Cartagena; a little harder to get to, still has a good rep for women and much more monger info posted on TSM. I will use AA miles so getting there would require trip to Baranquilla and a separate flight or car to Cartegena.

I will be in Cartagena from 9/14 to 9/17.

Yoosin,
The guys from TSM are very impressed with a certain driver that will take you from Barranquilla to Cartagena. Don't make the trip at night I hear. Stay in Barranquilla one night and then go over during the day. TreeShark I am sure knows more than I do. I am also an AA guy, but am using Avianca to go straight into CTG from MIA. It saves some time and I didn't have a lot for my first trip. I got a $650 ORD-CTG fare on AA and Avianca combined.

e-mail me @ bushpilot98@hotmail.com if you wish more details.

Gitano

I fly avianca from Miami to Cartagena direct.. Have never even been to Barranquila.. Odds are that next trip I will go there just to see and get out of Cartagena for a day or two.. Merits between Cali and Cartagena.. I will ask Gator to join in this discussion since he knows the best..

From Cali's El-Pais newspaper, dial-a-chica section
--- 2 girl one hour special CPO 65,000 (about USD 30).

Don't know about Cartegena but hooked up with Bogart (TSM buddy) in Cali 5 weeks ago. He'd just come in from Cartegena and told me nothing much was happening there. Maybe it's better now. Can't say.

Cali is affectionately known as the 'Cleavage Capital' of Colombia. Half the Calenas walking down the street look like Jennifer Lopez with tits. And if you know a little Spanish and treat the 'good girls' OK, you won't even need the pros.

Yoosin, Treeshark, Gitano --

If you do end up going to Cartegena, let me know how it was. I don't have to commit until October.

well Yoosin I would say go to Cali then.. I have been nervous about going myself for security reasons. Perhaps mustang will be kind and do a report about his trip there..
thanks for mentioning Bogart mustang.. I had forgotten about him.. he did a trip report on Barranquilla for tsm that is THE report for Barranquilla..
We overlapped in Cartagena by 3 days but failed to meet.. He told me by email later that he wanted to meet me but did not happen that time.
Perhaps he thought Cartagena was quiet but his second day there was my last full day(the day before i left) there and i did 4 different chicas in less then 24 hours that day..
I like to see a report by him about Cali since i am sure that it would be great. Do you know if he is still there??/ I think he has been in colombia for over 2 months now.. must be nice..

LATINPASS Miles
I have discovered that I can use AMEX Membership rewards points for LATINPASS Miles which opens up a whole new set of flights probably Avianca.

I am shooting for a week in Cartagena based on what I have read here and at the TSM site. I would really like to have access to the beach during the day.
But I have reserved Cali as the alternative in case the flights to CTG won't work out. I must say the stories of unparrelled beauty in Cali are attracting. I remember a Columbian Salsa band even had a song about the women in Cali.

I should be Cartagena around 10/10 if anyone is there then.

Humm?

Cali or Cartagena? As Bro. Rabbit says, "Please don't throw me in the briar patch." To tell the truth, guys (NOW members take note-I am assuming no women are in this discussion.) these two places are entirely different. If you want mongering and non-mongering activities that Cartagena is the place. The history of Cartagena will keep you busy for at lest a week-especially in the old city. If you want romance, take a chica to the old city when the moon is full. To find out that datum go to:

http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/MoonPhase.html

(Another piece of trivia to drive you crazy is that November will have a Blue Moon, which is two full moons in one month)

Best way to get there is to make a connection in Miami. Sometimes it is better to grab a flight from say Chicago ORD to Miami MIA that book to Colombia. Quick check of the web show many flights from ORD to MIA for about $200 then ACES was about $310 to Cartagena CTG. COPA, a great airline IMHO, was $410 MIA to CTG with a FREE stop in Panama City. For and extra $50 you can also get a stopover in Barranquilla BAQ.

http://www.avianca.com.co/

http://www.copaair.com/


Barranquilla is an OK place but not one of my favorites. Advice-Under no circumstances make the land trip from Barranquilla to Cartagena after dark. The highway is excellent and new but should only be undertaken in daylight. While I have never used Alvaro several buddies have and I accept their judgment to his character. Don't know if this is current but try this: Alvaro D’Achiardi Viteri, Taxi Service-Tour Guide. From USA dial international 011-57-5-368-1802 between 10pm-12am EST to speak with him directly. He does speak English. His pager is 349-0499 code 39253, person will answer and ask for the code. You then give them the text message to send to his pager. It have been reported that he now has email at aldavit@lycos.co. His cell phone is 634-8135. But thinks change in Colombia so I do not know if this is still good info.

To get around call Avianca and ask about their Discover Colombia air pass. In low season you get three cities for $100, five for $120. Low season is anything other than June, July, August

Oh, BTY, the song about womem in Cali is by Gropo Niche and is called "Cali Pachanguero."

Grupo Niche it is - You are correct Gator, you know your Salsa. I just pulled it out again to start getting myself in the Columbian mode.

No disrespect is intended but "Cali Pachanguero."
is a mambo and is translated literally, "Partying Cali." But who gives a rats's ass-a great dance tune.

Gator,

You clearly have the Cali/Cartagena trip requirements down. Have you posted a trip report elsewhere that, perhaps you could repost here?

A while back, PakWan posted a report to the board about his trip to BKK, and it gave a good feel for what to expect, etc. I'm hoping that you've got something similar in your 'history bag'.

The more I read, the more interesting Columbia sounds.

TIA,

StrikeEagle

StrikeEagle,

Check your e-mail.

Gitano

The song? I thought you were talking about The Latin Brothers - "Las Calenas Son Como Las Flores"

(The women of Cali are like flowers)

I'll be there in early Nov. Haven't pegged the dates yet...

Hola Gentlemen, this is my first post here after many a redsnake and W.S.A. posts.

Gitano, I am curiuos how things went with your
novia after the experience of bringing her to the states etc. I am literally a month or two away from landing the K-1 visa for my Colombiana (Barranquilla) and bringing her likely to stay.

However, I feel the need to get in one final jaunt to Cartagena and will likely spend 3 days on the sly before I bring my girl up from Barranquilla.

This board is tremendous and Gator pointed me in the right direction over a year ago. I have done Cartagena twice and Bogota twice and
have the followings comments and questions.

Firstly, I had the good fortune of meeting up with a fellow hobbyist in Costa Rica where I have considerable experience and had a blast.
I am planing late Sept. early Oct trip and would love to meet up with any planning the same.

I have stayed at the Hilton and the Charleston Santa Teresa. I had my novia with me at the Santa Teresa so I could not tell how monger friendly they are but from my recent readings here it seems like no problem even with the somewhat indimidating armed guards at the front entrance, is this accurate? I will need to make this a two stage trip with an Old city
location sin or con novia and Boca Grande in reverse. The Hilton was no problem with girls. I read that the Santa Teresa is now at a potential $75 per night rate? Wow, any particular sight recommended to obtain this rate, this is a real 5 star place with a memorable roof top pool!

I read Shadow's lengthy report on W.S.A. from approx. 8 months ago and since I was there in
Feb. I know the report is definately outdated.

What is the best plan of attack to go after the semi-pro? I did Manilla House and had a great night with a 20 year sweetie who I took out clubbing and drinking all night for $70 total. I cannot remember the names of the Boca Grande beachside spots near Hotel Almirante and I will look in the archives to remember. What is the best way to have the GFE all nighter? I like to shop early, preferably with drinking buddies and find the beauty to then party with until the wee hours. These girls are great fun and I want the 12 hour experience ending the next day. What are some thoughts at current, Houses? Specific bars that are now the new hot spots? I had a great guide/ named Robinson in front of the Hilton, does the guide/tout to lead you in the semi pro direction make sense?

At any rate I would love to hook up with anyone during this time frame. I have done C.R. alone multiple times and even though I actually do feel comfortable for the most part in Cartagena, any fellas to goof with pre novia would be a definate enhancement.

Thanks in advance,

TriggerT

Sorry Yoosin just booked my flight will be arriving in Cartagena on the evening 10/10 so I will miss you, maybe next time.

Geneboy I had no problem bringing chicas back to the Charleston in the evening, never tried in the daytime, allthough some didn't leave until 1ish.

The last 2 times I paid $75 per night at the Charleston, the cheapest I can find at the moment on the net is $110 unfortunatly.

Will be in Cartagena for a while, so hopefully meet some fellow members there.

Adios

Hunter

Hunter, I have extended my departure til the 11th, so we may still have a chance to cross paths the evening of the 10th.

All, I am having a heck of a time figuring out the hotel scene and costs. The internet does not seem to offer much help in booking hotels here or at least the prices seem way out of line. I am trying to combine.

- better class hotel
- still allows guests without a hassle
- fairly close to the Bocagrande beach scene
optionally
- offers scuba diving as an activity

It seems that the Hotel Almirante will probably fulfill the initial three needs. However I can not locate a place on the web to price or bbok rooms.

Can someone advise if there is such a site?

Are you guys typically booking via telephone? or fax?

Anyone have other hotel suggestions with info on how to book?


Thanks,

Yoosin

Yoosin, I am due to arrive 8pm on the 10th, as long as the flight is not delayed will meet you at the bar in Paco's restaurant on the Plaza Santa Domingo between 9-10pm if you want.
If I am later will meet you at La Dolca Vita, presumming it is still open.
Less you can think of a better place.

A number of people have said that the Almirante is good value. From the posts that I have read you just turn up and tell them that your friend was staying there and he was paying 120K pesos and thats what you are going to pay. Hopefully you will get that rate or a little more, it is not high season in Cartagena then so the Hotel shouldn't be any where near full.

I will probably try and get a room there for a few days, the Charleston is very good Hotel, but I don't want to spend $110 per night, nice to try another Hotel anyway.

Hunter

Hunter, Sounds like a plan. Will be my last night in Columbia so we'll have to make it a good one.

Thanks for the hotel input, I be coming in late first day so I will try to book at least first night in advance. Guess I can move somewhere else afterwards if they aren't price friendly enough.

Yoosin

Hunter

Sent fax requests to the Almirante with no response, decided to place a telephone call instead. I finally contacted the Almirante today and they quoted $220,000COP/day ($105USD) tried the friend has recently gotten the $120,000COP rate, they would not budge. Claimed that he must be mistaken.

I am thinking for that price I can probably stay at better places - but then what do I know.

Any suggestions?
Have you booked rooms yet?

Yoosin

Four days and hopefully I will be enjoying the beauty of Cartagena.. Planning to stay at Hotel Charlotte the first night.. Here is the info that Juan sent me


I think Hotel charlotte in Avenida San Martin is nice,
and be sure is not necessary reserve before, because
on this season usually not problems, and if for some
extra circunstance all hotels and apartments in
Cartagena are full, you´re wellcome on my apartment
guests room. (And if are not full also are wellcome)

I called charlotte hotel they give two prices, one
room with breakfast for one or two people 90.000 pesos
(45USD).

One room with all meals for one or two 120000 pesos
(60USD).

By the way Juan does have a web page.. go to http://www.venpro.net/col/aptos/cartagena.htm

However Juan rents high price stuff.. If you want something less pricey need to check elsewhere..

I will check out a place that is supposed to be nice and does not cost so much.

I will try to check out some options this trip and see what I can come up with..

and yes I did stay at the penthouse on one trip..

treeshark

Ok, I booked for Cartagena. I'll be at the Hotel Santa Clara from 10 Nov - 17 Nov. I actually arrive the 8th and haven't decided where to stay the extra days yet.

Who else will be there that week?

CALI, BOGOTA - APRIL/MAY 2002

Anyone going to be there? Planning trip to Cali late April, Bogota early May.

**CALI: Staying at either LWC condo in La Flora or Aparta del Rio Hotel.
**BOGOTA: don't know yet (suggestions?)

There are so many incredibly beautiful women here, all free & available. It's paradise. Can't believe I'm going back for the 3rd time - same country!!!

Both trips there got so THOROUGHLY LAID I was limping when I came home to USA (you think I'm kidding?). But it was a "good" hurt. The only problem was, they all are so damned gorgeous - but they all want to get married. Maybe I'll tell them I'm a Mormon, or something.

Yeah............

Cartagena from May 4th thru May 12th

Planning (early) for CTG 6/28-7/7. Sure would like to hook up with a few fellow hombres for a beer and chica chasing! Have cameras will travel.

Current plan is to be there in early July. Zippy may make it too.

I'll keep you posted...

Am also planning(early)on being in Cartegena July 2nd or 3rd to 8th or 9th. Would love to hook
up for drinks and swapping lies with such
honorable company.

CR and Bonvvnt;

I am having trouble deciding between Rio or CTG, but if you guys are going to be in CTG., that may just sway my decision. I have read many of your posts and would enjoy the opportunity to meet such distinguished mongers! I especially want to hear more about CR's cheerleader trip.

I plan on being there. Unless something
drastically changes between now (9PM) and
tomorrow morning, I will be buying my ticket.
Arrive either 2nd or 3rd, depart 9th or 10th
of July.

Decision made. See you guys in Ctg. Brazil too cold in July!

Send e-mail so we can plan on getting together for a beer. Maybe have a party with lots of chicas.

where you guys going to stay?

BonVvnt looks like we will miss crossing paths once again. July- YES However I will not be back to CTG until July 26 thru the first week of August.

CR and Bonvvnt;

I have access to a two BR Apt for $60 per night right on the beach in El Laquito. I am confirming one room. either of you interested in the other? I'll book mine from 6/28-7/7. It is a per person fee per night kind of arrangement. $65 per night for one; $120 ($60 each) for two. If our itineraries don't fit exactly you only pay the per person rate.

E-mail me if interested.

This place has just recently been renovated and has all the goodies including Internet access with PC.

Actually that's only a moderate deal. Did you get it from Eddy or Juan V.?

I'll probably be at the Santa Clara so I'm out but thanks for the offer.

Eddie.

I know it is not the best deal in town and I do like the Santa Clara. I just want to be on the beach in El Laguito and this place is very nice.

Let's plan on meeting at LDV or Pacos when you arrive?

Plan on meeting both of you at your convenience
when I get there. We can make more definite
plans as it gets closer to July. Leaving for
Costa Rica Friday and will be gone a week.
Don't check in when I am gone, so will talk to
you next week. Sent you a private message about
the apartment.

I am going to be in Cali 5/29-6/2. Anybody give me any current information on good hot spots. Its been about a year since I've been there.

Guitara y Feria (probably misspelled) Packed with locals from the 'upper class' set. No pros, but a good time.

I'll be speaking to a friend there this week. I'll get the latest from her.

Planning on going to CTG from June 7th to June 16th for the first time. Any vets going to be there???

Flyguy most of us are going to be there the week of July 4th.

Check with Hunter, he may be back by then.

I am not sure yet when I will be returning to Cartagena, hopefully by mid June.

I am in Thailand at the moment, I return to London in just over a week.

I am sorting out some things in London, as soon as I they are sorted I am on the next plane out of there and on my way home.

Hunter

Hi,
I am going to be in Cali starting June 30th. Plan to stay there through July 4th.

Let me know if anybody else has the balls to accompany or meet me there ;)

Damn,

i'm gonna be in Cali June 7th thru June 16th...anybody there at that time. I expect to have brave ole Mustang as my wing man..

I'll be there for three weeks, June 18 till July10. Look me up here for a cerveza and I'll show you what a little money can buy :-). Phome # is 665-6891 and at the below apartment

Singletravel

www.singltravel.com/cartagena

I guess that means I can't rent your apartment!

Oh well, I would like to see how it looks now. It was 'under construction' the last time I saw it.

Gents, One week from today I should have my tickets bought and paid for. The itenerary as it stands how is: Wed. Sept. 25--Bogota, Thur. Sept. 26 through Tues. Oct. 1--Cartagena, and Wed. Oct. 2 through Tues. Oct. 8--Barranquilla. There's a favorita/novia kinda thing going on in BAQ; that's the reason for seven nights there and only seven nights for BOG & CTG combined. The BAQ chica and I will probably cruise over to CTG once we hook up, so I hope to see some(any?) of you 9/26-10/1 as an unattached gringo, and the lady and I would be honored to party with any/all on the two nights we journey to CTG together. Hope to meet some of you then!

Well, just bought the tix and got confirmation about apartment in Bruces building from Eddie. 34 nights in Cartagena! October 1st to November 4th. First time in CTG, have made 3 CR trips, with the first being non-hobby.

Look like I'll be arriving on your last night Zerped. Have done a lot of reading on CTG and chose it over RIO because of Spanish (know some, want to learn a lot more, and don't want to start with 0 language skills) and over Cuba because I can't risk going there. With the amount of time i'm betteing I'll be welcoming and then seeing off a number of you guys.