not a word about Colombia?

[episevilla]

Hi everybody! I bet You will excuse my foreign Engish --I'm from Spain-- because I got good news about Colombia. I came to Medellín and Cali a ocuple of days for work reasons and -- please believe me, the boys here are more than willing very ready to pleae... It suffices only to open a (local) profile in Manhunt and the boys flow.. I do not consider myself bad looking, but I confess I am a mature guy (55 y.o.), hairy and a little, although not too heavy. Anyway, there a plenty of young guys to keep me busy.. Sofar I met six very nice boys, ages between 18 and 26, black, white and mulatto types with over average to muscular build... Only one of them expecting to be paid: he got it, and he deserved the 90.000 pesos (around 35-40 euro) for sure.

I have visited several times Brazil, where young people are very open to mature men too (not to mention the legendary sauna boys), but I think Colombia is an indiscovered paradise for intergenerational encounters...

Besides, Colombians are nice and educated. Medellin have a good and extensive zone called El Poblado for the international visitor (and a unforgettable sauna in the city center: La casa de Tobi), food is good... I am still in Cali (I know, it sounds to dangerous, but the bad times are gone!) and I had a list of messages I cannot honoured! What a shame, but so is life ...

Thanks for reading! A big hug! :rolleyes:

[TampaYankee]

episevilla,

Your English is very good. Thanks for sharing your interesting experiences with us.

I agree that Columbia is a great untapped resource. (I suspect Venezuela is too.) I have seen many hot Colombians working on Flirt4Free which have stoked my desires. Unfortunately, Colombia's past made it a difficult and dangerous destination. It's great to know that things have changed so much for the better.

I have long desired to visit both Colombia and and Venezuela. I have wondered how one would actually meet guys there as little has ever been posted about it. Fortunately, we do have one member who shared his travels with us in the past. I appreciate your mention of Manhunt as a vehicle to meet guys. Sounds like a great way to start the 'hunt'.

Please consider sharing not only experiences about the guys but also your experience with the hotels, restaurants and transportation options in the area. I know many potential travellers will be interested.

Also, since you are from Spain, we would be very interested on your take of the Spanish scene for guys and the Spanish saunas if you have anything to share. We have a European Forum for Spain.

Welcome and again, thanks for a great post. I look forward to reading more that you have to share now and in the future.

[MsGuy]

Yeah, Episevilla, you are hereby anointed MER's official go to guy for Columbia.

Like TY I've been wondering if all those handsome Columbian guys on Flirt4Free were the tip of an iceberg of rent boys. I too will look forward to anything you might wish to contribute to our collective knowledge.

And a big hug back to you.

[firecat691614502759]

Hi everybody! I bet You will excuse my foreign Engish --I'm from Spain-- because I got good news about Colombia. I came to Medellín and Cali a ocuple of days for work reasons and -- please believe me, the boys here are more than willing very ready to pleae... It suffices only to open a (local) profile in Manhunt and the boys flow.. I do not consider myself bad looking, but I confess I am a mature guy (55 y.o.), hairy and a little, although not too heavy. Anyway, there a plenty of young guys to keep me busy.. Sofar I met six very nice boys, ages between 18 and 26, black, white and mulatto types with over average to muscular build... Only one of them expecting to be paid: he got it, and he deserved the 90.000 pesos (around 35-40 euro) for sure.

I have visited several times Brazil, where young people are very open to mature men too (not to mention the legendary sauna boys), but I think Colombia is an indiscovered paradise for intergenerational encounters...

Besides, Colombians are nice and educated. Medellin have a good and extensive zone called El Poblado for the international visitor (and a unforgettable sauna in the city center: La casa de Tobi), food is good... I am still in Cali (I know, it sounds to dangerous, but the bad times are gone!) and I had a list of messages I cannot honoured! What a shame, but so is life ...

Thanks for reading! A big hug! :rolleyes:

Your English is fine. More details please on various cities, the sauna you mentioned . Also when I type manhunt I get a cite only for USA???

Thanks

[episevilla]

Thanks, guys, I feel warmly welcome! I'm still in Cali, enjoying the friendship of a former olympic gymnast (22 y.o.) Nice boy and great body (and all the way around: great boy and nice, so nice body)... A regular university student, not for renting (but I would for sure rent him!!). The rest of the list cannot be honoroured...

Anyway, you wish further information about saunas, hotels, meals... I do by best to answer.

Saunas: My experience refers only to Medellín (they say the best gay bath-house in Cali is 'The Club Cali'). I went last friday to the Casa de Tobi sauna (in my first visit to Medellín, 2003, I went there a couple of times). It is located in the city center of Medellín --not the best looking environment, but I did not feel particularly unsafe-- near the Plazuela de San Ignacio. At the square tourists may visit the St. Ignatius' Church and the 'historical' building (actually, late XIXth Century -- early XXth Century) of the Universidad de Antioquia (nice cloisters, acceptable bookshop). The sauna 'Casa de Tobi' ('Tobi's Home'; the Tobi-friend of Little Lulu is actually portrayed at the counter) is a nice place, a three-story building with gym equipment (too desert), big jacuzzi and bar; in the second floor you have steam and dry saunas, and on the third cabins and spaces for fun. There are only lockers, and the use of cabins is free... but they have two or three rooms for rent, if the partner you meet deserve a VIP treatment! Apparently, the best of Medellín bath-houses. They open from 2 pm to 10 pm and it costs almost nothing (15.000 pesos, 7-8 euros, 9-10 dollars). There are usually plenty of people in the bath-house, of every kind, racial background and age; most of the patrons are young and nice, with medium to great builds. (I met a young student of Physical Education, a triathlet with a wiry complexion... You understand why my memories of the place are so good)... Also, not boys-for-pay in Tobi's Home, but probably the masseur (a twink -- not my cup of tea) can be rented. I did it at least in 2003.

Hotels: my places in Medellín (Hotel el Poblado Alejandría) and Cali (Hotel Radisson) were/are nice accommodations, within an international quality standard (in Cali rooms are actually suites: living room, bedroom --with a large bed, I guess what you call 'queen-size': a very appropriated name, by the way-- and bathroom). I paid in Medellín around 350 euros x 4 nights; it is also cheaper than in Spain (a similar hotel in a major city costs 130 euros at least). Service is good, even sweet, and efficient. Even if they have always a security guard, there is no problem to have guests in your room (it is possible to register the guy for an overnight, paying an extra of 40000 pesos). A funny remark: there were condoms in the mini-bar service at the Medellín hotel (not free). In ether hotels, restaurants were good. But Colombian food is not a great cuisine: just succulent (the typical 'bandeja paisa' of Medellín is quite heavy, too rustic for my taste).

As far as I see, Medellín is nicer than Cali. Both cities grew up with the drug-masters-money, but Medellín has now economically recovered far better than Cali. El Poblado in Medellín, the southern quarter, is beautiful: great residential buildings with manicured gardens in a very green and montainous country. And plenty of (big) commercial malls. Colombians just love malls.

Manhunt: yes, the best way of meeting Colombians is to open a Manhunt profile (with some pics!). It is important to localize the profile in the city you are visiting (I changed mine from Medellin to Cali, with success). If you remain on line a short time, messages will just [over]flow. It is really amazing; easier than Brazil. With these open-minded, mature-lover young people there is no need to rent. Anyway, it is quite easy to find by Internet (of course, hotels offer a good wireless internet connection) rent boys, or 'prepagos' in the local slang.

My experiences are quite limited, but please guys do not hesitate to ask whatever you feel of some interest.

A big hug

Epi

[Lucky]

Epi,welcome to the forums and thanks for the report. My favorite guy on Cam4.com is from Colombia, and I would love to meet him and his friends, unlikely as the prospect is.

[TotallyOz]

Yes, welcome and thanks for the great posts! I look forward to visiting there and your information really helps! Thank you!

[JKane]

It would be great to find a place a little closer than Brazil, with a more favorable exchange rate and no special visa requirements to enter!

Can you give us an idea how Colombia would be for visitors who don't speak Spanish? What about safety concerns for white American tourists?

Sounds like a lot has changed down there lately!

[episevilla]

Thanks guys... I have seen / met white Americans in the hotels and apparently they are safe and happy. I cannot say if young Columbians are very fluent in foreign languagues, but if they can speak another tongue, this is English... Many of them are college students, who probably can understand an American friend ... I mean, in a vertical position.

Of course hotels or restaurants staff are able to service properly the international visitor. Regarding money rates I am not well informed (and besides, the euro is too high these days). But is nothing to be afraid. My experience with a male escort --very succesful-- was not too expensive: the guy asked 90.000 pesos (out call), ca. 50 US $. I guess this is current price.

Best greetings

Epi

[mvan1]

This is from the United States - Department of State web page as of 11-5-2010. After reading even a portion of this, would anyone feel safe visiting Columbia?

SAFETY AND SECURITY: While security in Colombia has improved significantly in recent years, violence by narco-terrorist groups continues to affect some rural areas as well as large cities. The potential for violence by terrorists and other criminal elements exists in all parts of the country.

In recent months there has been a marked increase in violent crime in Colombia. Murder rates have risen significantly in some major cities, particularly Medellin and Cali. Kidnapping remains a serious threat. American citizens have been the victim of violent crime, including kidnapping and murder. Firearms are prevalent in Colombia and altercations can often turn violent. Small towns and rural areas of Colombia can still be extremely dangerous due to the presence of narco-terrorists. Common crime also remains a significant problem in many urban and rural areas. For additional details about the general criminal threat, please see the Department of State's Country Specific Information for Colombia.

The incidence of kidnapping in Colombia has diminished significantly from its peak at the beginning of this decade. Nevertheless, terrorist groups such as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), the National Liberation Army (ELN), and other criminal organizations continue to kidnap and hold civilians for ransom or as political bargaining chips. No one is immune from kidnapping on the basis of occupation, nationality, or other factors. Kidnapping in rural areas is of particular concern. On July 2, 2008, the Government of Colombia rescued 15 hostages, including three Americans, who had been held for more than five years. Although the U.S. government places the highest priority on the safe recovery of kidnapped Americans, it is U.S. policy not to make concessions to or strike deals with kidnappers. Consequently, the U.S. government's ability to assist kidnapping victims is limited.

U.S. government officials and their families in Colombia are permitted to travel to major cities in the country, but normally only by air. They may not use inter- or intra-city bus transportation, or travel by road outside urban areas at night. All Americans in Colombia are urged to follow these precautions.

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State's, Bureau of Consular Affairs' web site. It contains current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.

Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s extensive tips and advice on traveling safely abroad.

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CRIME: Although the threat of terrorism has decreased in most of Colombia’s cities, they nevertheless experience much of the same crime that is seen in comparably sized cities throughout the region. Robbery and other violent crimes, as well as scams against unsuspecting tourists, are common in urban areas. Generally speaking, if you are the victim of a robbery, you should not resist.

Some of the most common methods used by criminals in Colombia are noted below:

Robberies of ATM customers: Tourists and others have been robbed after using automatic teller machines (ATMs) on the street. In some cases, robbers have used motorcycles to approach their victims and later flee the scene. Americans are urged to use ATMs only inside shopping malls or other protected locations. Driving to and from the location – rather than walking – provides added protection. When using an ATM, you should be on the lookout for anyone watching or following you.

Robberies of taxi passengers: Robbery of taxi passengers is a serious problem in Bogota. Typically, the driver – who is one of the conspirators – will pick up the passenger and then stop to pick up two or more armed cohorts, who enter the cab, overpower the passenger, and take his/her belongings. If the passenger has an ATM card, the perpetrators may force the passenger to withdraw money from various ATM locations. Such ordeals can last for hours.

In almost every case of taxi-related crime, the victims have been riding alone and have hailed taxis off the street. Rather than hailing a taxi, you should use the telephone dispatch service that most taxi companies offer. Many hotels, restaurants, and stores will call a taxi for you, and the taxi usually arrives within minutes. When a taxi is dispatched by telephone, the dispatcher creates a record of the call and the responding taxi.

Robberies of tourists departing airports: U.S. citizens arriving at major Colombian airports have occasionally been victimized by armed robbers while en route from the airport to their hotel or home. The perpetrators typically scout out victims at the airport and then follow their vehicles before robbing the occupants at a stoplight. Travelers should remain vigilant at airports and report to local airport police if they suspect they may be under surveillance.

[TampaYankee]

Let's hope that things continue to improve because Colombia looks like a wonderful destination to enjoy.

[episevilla]

Hi, guys, of course Colombia is not a paradise. I did not visit rural areas, where the FARC is present. Nor the favelas-like sectors of almost every city. Even in my home country, or in the USA, or in Rio de Janeiro by the way, I have nothing to do in marginals quarters or places: I do not know the actual situation, but when in Berkeley several years ago, I did not dare to visit Richmond, or West Palo Alto, etc.

The point is this: if you limit your visit to main Columbian cities and move safely, you have nothing to be afraid of. Really. I'm back home in all my pieces... With very good memories... And an invitation to work again in Cali next fall.

A big hug

Epi

[TampaYankee]

Hi, guys, of course Colombia is not a paradise. I did not visit rural areas, where the FARC is present. Nor the favelas-like sectors of almost every city. Even in my home country, or in the USA, or in Rio de Janeiro by the way, I have nothing to do in marginals quarters or places: I do not know the actual situation, but when in Berkeley several years ago, I did not dare to visit Richmond, or West Palo Alto, etc.

The point is this: if you limit your visit to main Columbian cities and move safely, you have nothing to be afraid of. Really.

Here are some other takes on Colombia from a travel site perspective. I wouldnt take them at face value exactly since they have a leg in the game but it is another input.

http://www.adncolombia.com/colombia-tourism/why-colombia-is-a-secure-country-to-travel/index.html

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/colombia

You are right that care needs to be exercised whenever one travels to an unfamiliar destination whether it be Russia, Latin America, the Phillipines or New York City.

I'm back home in all my pieces... With very good memories... And an invitation to work again in Cali next fall.

Thanks again for sharing your experience and answering questions. I envy you your opportunity to work on temporary assignment there next fall. By the way, how is the weather in the fall?

[episevilla]

About the weather in Fall: I do not know how it is at the sea shore (Cartagena & Barranquilla), but in the countryside is very mild. It can be hotter in Cali, though.

Anyway, fall is raining season, so you should expect a big (sometimes really big) rain everyday, between 4pm and 8pm. From february on starts the dry season.

No wonder Medellín is surrounded by a very green landscape!!

Big hugs

Epi

[axiom2001]

Many of the guys on "Flirt for Free" (which is a misnomer) claim to come from Colombia. All have been rather hot and sensual and ready for some steamy action. I often do question whether they are from there, though. Perhaps one of these years and days, I'll "take the plunge" and venture there and make the best of this travel experience.

My heart and desires still push the vote for traveling to Brazil and its many parts!

[Guest asdktr]

How are the hotels for allowing visitors? Any problems with that?

[firecat691614502759]

How are the hotels for allowing visitors? Any problems with that?

I stayed in the Hilton in Bogota and Poblado Plaza in Medellin. No problem in either Hotel/

[episevilla]

I stayed in the Hilton in Bogota and Poblado Plaza in Medellin. No problem in either Hotel/

Same experience im Plaza Rosa (to avoid: really too noisy) and El Poblado Alejandría, both in Medellín.

Epi