More Tourists Killed In Medellin Colombia (Harsh Truth About Safety In Colombia)

Summary

The speaker, having experienced the perils of Colombia firsthand, dispels myths about increasing danger, asserting that violence has long been a reality. They share personal encounters with crime, including armed robberies, and emphasize the importance of not presenting oneself as an easy target. The video also warns about the deceptive nature of online dating and the prevalence of criminal elements in the country, urging viewers to be vigilant and smart while acknowledging the coexistence of danger and beauty in Colombia.

Takeaways

• 😔 The speaker has personally experienced significant loss and danger in Colombia, giving them a unique perspective on the country's safety.
• 🌍 The perception of increasing danger in Colombia may be due to more foreign incidents being reported rather than an actual increase in crime.
• 🗞️ News outlets and social media may not accurately represent the full extent of violence and crime in Colombia, as many incidents go unreported.
• 😡 Despite the presence of good people, there are also very dangerous individuals in Colombia who can pose a threat to both locals and foreigners.
• ⚠️ Colombia is indeed dangerous, and anyone claiming otherwise is likely ignorant of the true situation on the ground.
• 🔪 The speaker witnessed extreme levels of violence, including multiple instances of having guns pulled on them.
• 💔 Tragic incidents, such as the death of a loved one due to violence, are sadly common occurrences in the speaker's experience.
• 🤔 The speaker suggests that being targeted is often about opportunity, and advises against displaying wealth or valuable items to avoid becoming a target.
• 🔒 When it comes to online dating, the speaker warns of scams and the potential for robbery, emphasizing the need for caution and awareness of red flags.
• 🏥 Even in sensitive situations like visiting a hospital after a family member's death, the speaker faced threats and violence.
• 🇨🇴 The speaker acknowledges the reality of crime in Colombia while also recognizing the good people and memorable experiences that can be had there.

Q & A

What is the speaker's personal experience with safety in Colombia?

The speaker has experienced the death of multiple loved ones and has personally encountered dangerous situations, including having guns pulled on them multiple times.

Why does the speaker believe that the perception of increased danger in Colombia is misleading?

The speaker suggests that incidents in Colombia are often swept under the rug and not reported, making it seem like recent events are more frequent when they have been happening all along.

What role do news outlets and social media play in the speaker's view of how safety in Colombia is portrayed?

The speaker believes that news outlets and social media have started to give more coverage to incidents involving foreigners, which creates a false impression that the situation is worsening.

What advice does the speaker give to avoid becoming a target for criminals in Colombia?

The speaker advises not to display wealth or valuable items, to think like a criminal or desperate person to assess if one might be an opportunity for crime, and to be cautious with online dating.

How does the speaker describe the general attitude towards foreigners in Colombia?

The speaker states that criminals do not discriminate based on nationality and that foreigners can be targeted simply because they may appear to be easy or lucrative targets.

What is the 'magic powder' mentioned in the script, and how is it related to dating in Colombia?

The 'magic powder' is a metaphor for the speaker's warning about the potential for scams and robberies involving dating, particularly through platforms like Tinder, where people could be drugged and robbed.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of having local connections in Colombia?

The speaker emphasizes local connections because Colombia is described as a place where areas are controlled by criminal hierarchies, and having people on your side can provide protection and support.

What is the speaker's view on the news and statistics regarding crime in Colombia?

The speaker believes that the news and statistics are not representative of the true extent of crime in Colombia, as many incidents go unreported, especially in rural areas.

How does the speaker describe their own approach to personal safety while living in Colombia?

The speaker describes being cautious, not displaying wealth, having a 'cheap bike' for certain areas, and changing their behavior based on the context and location to avoid being a target.

What is the speaker's overall message about visiting Colombia?

The speaker's overall message is not to avoid Colombia but to be aware, cautious, and smart about one's actions and surroundings to minimize risks.