Colombia to Thailand - Need Help

[Cartagenabound]

Colombia to Thailand:

I find that I need to move one of my motorcycles out of Colombia as the time limit is up. I do not qualify for any more extensions. I started out in the USA and rode to South America. I am now in Colombia. I found a broker that can ship my bike to Thailand from here for around $1, 500.00 I am assuming that there will be around $300 more on the other end, for a total of $1, 800.00


I was thinking of scooting around Thailand, Laos and Cambodia for 3 to 6 weeks and then bring it over to the Philippines for a while longer. After that, I do not really know. It just depends on how I feel. I have friends in Pampanga that could store my bike for a while. I was thinking that I could make a second trip back in several months and move on to other parts of SE Asia or perhaps Australia. The world is my oyster.

I read today From Richards posting about the Philippines in 2005:

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/tstories/stewart/2005_03.php

“A "refundable" bond of 150% - 200% of Customs' estimated value of your bike must normally be paid. Once your bike arrives, you may need to remain at the port for 1 - 2 weeks to process the paperwork. You can only export your bike through the same port that you entered the country. When exporting your bike, it may take you 2 - 3 weeks to have the paperwork processed and, if you’re lucky, get your bond back.”

None of this looks very appealing. Not worth the cost and trouble. Does any one have any fresh experience in the Philippines to add.

After adding up all the cost and hassle, I think it would be better to send my bike back to the States. Any help would be appreciated.

I have to make a decision in the next several days as my time is running out.

Thanks,
Martin