In this episode of Drop A Pin, Jersey Jerry shares his experiences traveling to Colombia, discussing cultural differences, safety concerns, and the allure of investing in Colombian real estate. He recounts his adventures, from golfing and dining to the unique wildlife and historical context of the country, particularly the legacy of Pablo Escobar.
Welcome back to Drop A Pin! In this episode, we dive into the fascinating experiences of Jersey Jerry, who recently traveled to Colombia. From cultural observations to safety tips, Jerry shares his insights on this vibrant South American country.
Jersey Jerry's trip to Colombia marked his first venture outside the United States. Accompanied by his Colombian girlfriend, he initially felt nervous about potential dangers, such as robbery or cartel-related issues. However, he quickly learned that Colombia has transformed significantly since the days of Pablo Escobar.
One notable cultural difference Jerry observed was the lack of air conditioning in many homes. He found it challenging to adjust to the heat, especially when staying at his girlfriend's grandmother's house. Despite the discomfort, he appreciated the warmth and hospitality of the Colombian people.
Jerry's conversation touched on the infamous Pablo Escobar, who once ruled Colombia's drug trade. He explained how Escobar's wealth allowed him to live lavishly, even building his own prison with luxurious amenities. Jerry humorously noted that Escobar's hippos, bought with drug money, have now become a problem in Colombia, with their population growing significantly since Escobar's death.
The hippos, originally brought to Colombia for Escobar's private zoo, have multiplied and are now causing issues in the local ecosystem. Jerry mentioned that estimates suggest there could be over a thousand hippos in Colombia by 2035, leading to viral videos of hippos interrupting local soccer games.
Jerry shared his travel experiences, including golfing at Club Carib and navigating the local currency. He initially struggled with understanding the value of Colombian pesos, leading to a humorous realization that a dinner costing 680,000 pesos was actually only about $68.
While Jerry felt safe for the most part, he did encounter some sketchy areas. He advised travelers to be cautious and to avoid drawing attention to themselves. He also noted that Colombian police are often more interested in bribes than in arresting tourists, which can lead to a different kind of travel experience.
As the conversation progressed, Jerry expressed interest in potentially buying property in Colombia. He highlighted the affordability of real estate, mentioning that some Americans he met were successfully flipping properties in Medellín. Jerry and his friends discussed the idea of investing in a vacation rental, emphasizing the potential for profit and the appeal of having a getaway in Colombia.
Jerry also shared his culinary experiences, praising Colombian food such as chicharrón (fried pork belly) and traditional rice and beans. He noted the affordability of dining out, with meals costing significantly less than in the U.S.
Jersey Jerry's adventures in Colombia paint a picture of a country rich in culture, history, and opportunity. From the remnants of Escobar's legacy to the vibrant local life, Colombia offers a unique travel experience. As Jerry plans to return, he looks forward to exploring more of what this beautiful country has to offer, including the possibility of investing in real estate. Whether you're considering a visit or an investment, Colombia is a destination worth exploring.
