My New Life in Colombia: A Personal Journey to South America’s Most Welcoming Home

When I first told my friends I was moving to Colombia, their reactions were predictable: “Is it safe?” “What about the cartels?” Three years later, I’m writing this from my sun-drenched balcony in Medellín, sipping locally-grown coffee and wondering why I didn’t make this move sooner.

Safety: Dispelling the Old Myths

The Colombia I discovered bears no resemblance to its dated stereotypes. My first surprise came during my late-night walks through El Poblado, Medellín’s buzzing expat district. Families dining al fresco at 10 PM, digital nomads working in well-lit cafes, and locals jogging with their dogs – scenes that quickly became my new normal.

“You’ll feel safer here than in many U.S. cities,” my Colombian neighbor assured me when I first arrived. She was right. The community police presence, bright streets, and helpful locals create an environment where I feel secure and welcomed.

A Food Culture That Changed My Life

I never expected to become a foodie in Colombia, but here I am, planning my weeks around visits to local markets and favorite restaurants. My morning ritual starts at the farmer’s market in my neighborhood, where $20 fills my bag with exotic fruits I never knew existed. Dragon fruit, lulo, and granadilla have become my breakfast staples.

Every weekend, I discover new gems in the local food scene. Yesterday, I learned to make arepas from my Colombian cooking instructor, Maria. “The secret,” she told me, “is in the patience of the grinding.” These small cultural insights have enriched my understanding far beyond just food.

Living Well on Less: The Affordability Factor

As someone who used to shell out $2,500 for a tiny studio in Boston, my spacious two-bedroom apartment with mountain views at $800 per month still feels like a dream. But it’s not just housing – my entire lifestyle has upgraded while my costs have dropped.

My monthly expenses here:

• Rent: $800 + (luxury apartment)
• Utilities: $60
• High-speed internet: $25
• Weekly housekeeping: $40
• Dining out 3-4 times weekly: $200
• Fresh market groceries: $150
• Transportation: $50

Finding My Tribe: The Expat Community

Within my first week, I was added to three WhatsApp groups for expats, invited to two language exchanges, and connected with a hiking group that explores Colombia’s stunning landscapes every weekend. The expat community here is diverse and welcoming, but what makes it special is how it intersects with local life rather than existing in isolation.

The Local Welcome Wagon

“Mi casa es tu casa” isn’t just a saying in Colombia – it’s a way of life. My neighbors regularly invite me for Sunday almuerzo (lunch), a sacred family time in Colombian culture. Through these gatherings, I’ve learned more about Colombian life than any guidebook could teach me.

Healthcare: World-Class Without the World-Class Price Tag

Last month, I needed to see a specialist. Within 24 hours, I had an appointment with an English-speaking doctor in a modern facility that looked more like a luxury hotel than a hospital. The cost? $40 for the consultation. My private health insurance, which covers everything from dental to specialists, costs me $75 monthly – a fraction of what I paid in the States.

Daily Life and Integration

My Spanish is still a work in progress, but locals appreciate the effort. Whether I’m stumbling through conversations at the corner store or practicing with my language exchange partners, Colombians consistently show patience and encouragement.

Some practical insights I’ve gained:

• Learning basic Spanish is essential but not a barrier to getting started
• The visa process is straightforward with the right documentation
• Banking can be initially tricky but is manageable with local help
• Internet reliability rivals any major U.S. city
• The growing digital nomad scene means great co-working spaces

Why Colombia Keeps Getting Better

Each month brings new developments: improved infrastructure, more international businesses, better connectivity. Yet Colombia maintains its cultural authenticity. It’s this balance of progress and tradition that makes it special.

For those considering a similar move, remember that Colombia isn’t just one experience – it’s many. From Medellín’s eternal spring to Cartagena’s coastal charm, from Bogotá’s cosmopolitan buzz to the coffee region’s tranquil farms, there’s a Colombia for everyone.

As I watch the sunset paint the mountains in shades of pink and purple, I’m reminded why I chose Colombia. It’s not just about the lower cost of living or the perfect weather – it’s about finding a place that challenges your preconceptions and rewards your leap of faith with a richer, more connected life.

About the Author: After working in tech for a decade in Boston, I moved to Colombia in 2021. I now work remotely, explore South America, and write about expat life and digital nomad experiences.