Wearing Shorts in Colombia

[marlon]

Seriously a no-no?
Even in the hot cities?

[Rogbo]

Originally Posted by marlon

Seriously a no-no?
Even in the hot cities?

No it's not a no no

[southlondoner]

I agree it is ok - but make sure they are not too short or people will stare at you. My wife wouldn't let me in 2001 but nowdays (thank God) things are better.


If I could not wear shorts I would never visit her family again - it would be just too hot.

[PEPE_USMC]

Marlon, here is my breakdown of when an where to and not to wear shorts. However, if you wear shorts, you probably shouldn't wear a T-Shirt though. This goes back to my LA experiences from 1998 to current. Yeah, it can get fn hot, but here are some examples to think about.

Shorts Protocol:
OK:
Going to the market to get food
Going to a mall on a Sunday afternoon to watch a movie
A casual pre-arranged lunch with friends at a friends home (after you have already met them)
Walking to the gym and back or a run
Sunday afternoon visit to a bar (usually pretty dead, so nobody cares)
Zoo
Doing a nature hike which will make you super sweaty (Tres Cruces or Cristo Rey)

Not OK:
Dinner
Going to a bar at night or late afternoon
First time visit to meet important people (parents, boss, or other)
Long trips (although hot, you never know what could happen on the trip)
Any where you are worried about women judging the way you will dress (Latinos judge you on your physical appearance, just like people in the US do. However, personal appearance is more of a constant worry for those over 23 years of age. Latin (especilly Colombian) women will tell you when your sense of fashion is off. Usually with a, "are you going to wear that?" Iron your shirts and put creases in your khakis, unless they are cargo pants. Leather shoes are another important aspect that should not be forgotten. I love my Merrels, but I usually wear comfortabe and shineable shoes in Colombia.

[marlon]

****
I'm a former sneaker addict and I'm rolling with 3 pairs of ****s
Should I definitey buy a pair of leather shoes down there?
which brings up another issue
All my long pants are jeans - black, blue, brown

damn fashion policia!

[LuckyGirl]

Marlon, once you are here in Colombia, you'll realize that you must do, it all depends on the occasion, do not worry too much. on the topic of jeans, very well, here the men are almost always wear jeans and depending on the occasion, you can wear with your sneakers and a collared T shirt or a shirt and leather shoes, or leather modern sneakers! for something more formal.
LG

[marlon]

thanks so much!

i dont want to be an outcast lol

[PEPE_USMC]

Marlon,
Lucky Girl said it pretty well. If you are a sneaker addict, Sketchers makes great leather shoes that feel just like running shoes. I am usually willing to pay for comfort, especially when I know the product will last a while. I would also suggest buying them and breaking them in before you go if feasible. That way you don't have blisters on your feet. Jeans are the norm. Unless you are planning on doing business, you can leave the formal attire at home for the most part. I pretty much went around in jeans and a polo shirt or button up shirt at nights and comfortable v-neck shirts during the day. One thing you will want to have a few of is skivvies. Or you will need to do laundry every other day. I was in Cali and was sweating alot, so I showered about twice a day. Anyway, good luck on your trip and I'll be looking forward to returning in about a week myself.

[marlon]

Thanks Pepe!

not sure why they blocked out N - I - K - E in my above post
odd!

[Razial]

If you visit San Andres you can wear what ever you like. Most people wear shorts and sometimes a bathing suit. You can even go topless if you want on Johnny Caye Island. You can go anywhere with shorts. I have gone to Court wearing shorts. Mainland Colombia is different in their dress codes.