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@almac68
Los Tombos and street life
Two years ago when I first visited Medellín I was impressed by the number of police on the streets. Typically riding two up on motor bikes, these guys and girls are everywhere. Plenty of road side checks, day and night. Also keeping the traffic moving. I've rarely seen a police car, maybe two or three tops. It is a comfort to know that the city takes public safety very seriously.
There is also an army of private security firms, all carrying lethal weapons. At schools, residential complexes (a lot of gated communities in the newly developed areas) and shopping malls.
The biggest fear in the city is probably kidnapping. Children are shuttled about in small 10 seater vans to /from school / sport activities.
Culturally and I'm speaking middle classes, here you'd be 20 before going anywhere unescorted. There are plenty of parks, playgrounds and sports pitches, just not frequented daily. Kids today are happy with a smart phone, as long as there is wifi in the mall, restaurant or home. Pretty sad imho.
I guess this way of life has a price, doesn't feel cheap despite the vast gulf between rich and abject poverty. When we were eating out in Laureles (Donde Dario), a young man passed by asking for some food, it's not uncommon to share stuff from your plate. Always gratefully received, the guy probably shared his food with another homeless guy.
In traffic we are regularly approached by kids selling fruit from local trees, or a punnet of strawberries, or a handful of sweets. It's only pennies they are after. We seldomn refuse and the taxi drivers always treat them kindly. Just don't tempt them with an iPhone, Rolex watch or jewellery siting next to the driver in the taxi.
Naturally some barrios are no go, especially after dark.
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