Free and low-cost leisure activities in Colombia

Low-cost activities I participate in .. here in Ipiales, Nariño, Colombia, near the Ecuador border....

1.  Swimming.  I pay $3.33 US a visit* at the city's indoor pool and spa in Mistares on Carrera 7, that's open to the public on weekends.  Apparently, some locals pay a lot less, based on a recent conversation we had in the hot tub.

2.  Casino blackjack.  You can place a bet for just $1.67 at a 21 table in Ventura Casino.  Slots, known here as tragamonedas or coin gulpers, are even less expensive to play.  Of course, blackjack gets more expensive if you try the dubious moves some of the locals favor -- such as splitting tens and doubling on a hard five versus any dealer card.  During a recent promotion, any natural 21 or blackjack containing a king was paid 3 to 1 instead of the customary 3 to 2.

3.  Massage.  $17 US at a local peluquería (near Parque Veinte de Julio) which I visit weekly for an excellent one-hour massage with Carolina in the back cuartito.  The going rate in Quito, Ecuador, went up to $25 in many peluquerías.

cccmedia in Ipiales, Nariño

*Note: all prices quoted above are in US dollar equivalents, whereas admissions, fees and wagers are usually accepted in Colombian pesos.