Gifts for Calenas?

[Ken2]

Any suggestions on what to buy a lady friend in Cali.  I know the standard things ladies like.  However, in thier culture, are there things that are tougher/more expensive for them to obtain, which would make a nice gift.
Also,  is it customary to get the mother (family something)?
thanks,
K.P.

[John O]

... in response to Gifts for Calenas?, posted by Ken2 on Apr 10, 2002

On my last few trips to meet new ladies in Colombia, I've brought several inexpensive ($5-$10) T-shirts or blouses that I bought at discount stores like Ross. Clothes are relatively light, easy to pack, and are always appreciated. Quality, style, price and sizes are up to your discretion.

[Michael B]

... in response to Try T-Shirts or Blouses, posted by John O on Apr 14, 2002

Good point. Particulary US sport team logos and stuff particular to where you live, stuff that she can't get down there that lets her show off to her friends "my gringo boyfriend gave this to me". Even though it didn't work out for other reasons, the lady from Bucaramanga loved the "Somebody in Texas Loves Me" shirt and Texas flag bikini I gave her.

[Cali vet]

... in response to Gifts for Calenas?, posted by Ken2 on Apr 10, 2002

I always wow them with my gifts of glass beads and tobacco.

[Keith Smith]

... in response to Gifts for Calenas?, posted by Ken2 on Apr 10, 2002

If it's for ladies that I've known for some time, I bring them souvenirs from here (N.Y.) and inexpensive clothes from boutiques (for example, a ladies' shirt for $3.00, a pair of pants for $6.00, a dress for $10.00). I've noticed that the Calenas (the ladies I know) go absolutely bananas when gifts are given to them. I'm going back there in June. Later.

[Ross2]

... in response to Gifts for Calenas?, posted by Ken2 on Apr 10, 2002

Ken,

Latinas like jewelry. Ever notice that many of them have several bracelets and necklaces? I'm not sure about your price range, but if you're ambitious, a gold bracelet would be nice. If you're looking for something less expensive, then a jewelry box is good. I gave a girl the latter and she loved it. I can't answer your question about the price differences between here and there.

Ross

[Cali vet]

... in response to Re: Gifts for Calenas?, posted by Ross2 on Apr 10, 2002

All the girls I've ever talked to in Cali say they prefer silver. They can't wear gold publicly, it's too dangerous. Even silver gets yanked off them sometimes but gold is just an open invitation for a mugging.

[Ross2]

... in response to Re: Re: Gifts for Calenas?, posted by Cali vet on Apr 10, 2002

Come to think of it, Calivet is right. Silver would be better. Sorry ken.

Regarding the gift for mom. I think a small gift would always be nice because these ladies are close to their families and would appreciate you thinking of them. Save the larger gifts for later.