Ruthless and Toothless

Getting hassled on the beach is a common occurrence here in Cartagena (and it even happens in my hood, Boquilla, but much less because the overall lack of tourists).  The beach venders here are ruthless and try and convince you that you just need that new pair of sunglasses or a bathing suit (like you would forget one of those items when going to the beach).  Also I can’t help but notice that a fair amount of the vendors are missing some teeth (see title).  These vendors are smart and have a few nifty strategies you have to be aware of as a gringo/prey.  

A few of my personal favorites consist of the good ‘ol Transative law method.  This is when a vendor forces something upon you, often jewelry, and then refuses to take it back because beach rules state that when you touch it you buy it.  Another is the, Beach banking system.  This is when the vendor, usually massage ladies, tell you that you don’t have to pay now for the service because the given vendor accepts beach credit.  Now I am not sure what beach credit is, but I am guessing they are not talking in terms of sand dollars.  Then there is my personal favorite and most awkward method, the Don’t mind me method.  This strategy is common among all vendors and occurs when a vendor walks up to you and then proceeds to stand next to you without exchanging a word for an extended period of time.  I have experienced message ladies standing awkwardly, for me at least,  in front of me not exchanging a single word and just waiting for me to ask for a massage for five minutes.  

At first, these vendors frustrated me because I just wanted to relax for a few hours and soak in the scorching Colombian sun, but now I am coming to terms with the fact that this is how they make a living.  With that in mind my patience has increased tremendously and I have to admit it is quite nice when you are burning in the sun and see a raspa’o vendor or beer man walking in your direction.