Colombian here - adding a couple of things: 1. We always say “thank you”, it could be to anyone (a waiter, someone who open the door for you, Uber driver, etc..) and sometimes we can say it more than once to the same person (like every time the waiter brings a new dish to the table..) 2. We always say “please”, even if it’s a small thing like “could you grab that for me, please ?”. Both of these (please and thank you) plus the “Good day, good morning, good afternoon..” is something that our parents teach us at a very young age, just to show appreciation and respect to the people around you. 3. We care a lot about hygiene: taking a shower, putting deodorant, brushing your teeth, washing your hands (several times, like before eating, after eating, if you touched something dirty, etc..) 4. If you put on some perfume as well (being clean + smelling good) = what a great combo!! 👏👏😄
Thank you for bringing up the good side of Colombians. Colombia‘s reputation was tarnished for decades, but there is a lot of good in the country. Another positive point: Colombians are accepting of each other’s race. Just watch Disney’s Encanto, where there are all kinds of races in one single family! It is a rich, mestizo culture.
You forgot the fact Colombia has high quality food as its regular food. One month later after you landed you look better and healthier because of the organic food
Such a contrast. In the UK, if you greeted someone in an elevator, they'd automatically assume you're a weirdo and have nefarious intentions. That's how horrifically western society has fallen.
People in the UK even struggle to reply when you greed them with good morning or good afternoon. They walk into the office without even looking at others.
Music and dancing are a must. Nobody cares if you "know " hot to, just hit that dance floor or your house living room, great workout and perfect to help you through the day.
I'm a colombian living in USA, my husband ( lebanese) adores Colombia 🇨🇴, he finds it is the most welcoming place on Earth, he cannot believes how people approach to you so easily, the sense of community, he is happier there . His dream is to live there after retirement and mine, too.❤🎉
Colombian here - Another good thing Colombians have is that they also care for their hygiene and dental health. Taking care of your teeth is very important there. -And yes, many people say that after 30, they no longer make new friends, but in Colombia, they are always very open to meeting new people no matter what stage of your life you are at. Even Colombians abroad are very good at making friends. -I believe that Colombians suffer less from loneliness and depression compared to other cultures, but I believe that we "purposely" seek to talk and share with family and friends, we do not wait for others to come and call us. Even adult Colombians of any age would call a friend or family member to tell them that we feel sad and need to talk. In other cultures it is not frowned upon for adults to express their emotions in that way.
Good hygiene is something any person with common sense should have no matter what country your from your from . How is taking care of yourself a Colombian thing .
Here in the states you'll see people in supermarkets wearing pajamas, rollers in their hair and house slippers. You'll never see that in Colombia. Colombians are overly concerned about personal hygiene. Smelling good is important. Unless you're dirt poor, you make sure your clothing is ironed and clean. Let's face it. People in the states for the most part don't care about tidiness. An oversized T-shirt, a pair of old jeans or shorts and flip flops and it's all good. Not saying it's a bad thing. It's just a different culture.
I've lived in Mexico for over 2 years and barely had any friends. I went to colombia for one month and had close to a dozen new friends. I could have had many more. You just meet people and enjoy meeting people even if you're not a people person. The vibe just brings it out of you. Incredible country and people. Edit: I'm 48 years old btw 😊
Thank you for these videos my friend. As a Colombian living abroad is very refreshing to see the views from foreigners. It reminds me of the things we should always feel proud of
I'm Colombian, I have lived abroad and I'll tell you a couple of extra good cultural points in comparison with other countries. We are low drama overall, in consequence, we are easygoing. We are very welcoming to people from abroad.
we like to celebrate absolutely EVERYTHING. anyone’s achievement around the world representing Colombia will certainly be acknowledged and taken with pride, no matter the discipline or talent.
Really meaningless when you only support those that have finally made it & prospered. The lack of support for developing athletes is well documented and clearly demonstrated even at higher levels such as the last World Cup when the country felt 'disgraced' & abandoned the team after they failed to qualify. Everyone loves the player's & feels patriotic now that they're in the Final of Copa America 🥱
I mean, i think that its understandablr to be upset that your country is underperforming. Obviously nobody is gonna feel happy if the national team doesnt qualify while playing horrible football.
Joel, I wish that I could give you ten thumbs up for this video. I just returned from a 4 km walk with my dog in el centro. Everyone wanted to pet my dog and play with her. I love walking in el centro on Sunday afternoons, the people are more relaxed and the traffic is much lighter. Amo mi Medellín 💗
You missed one Big, Huge point. They have 15 or more statutory holidays in the year and most of them they move to the next Monday. It is proofed that too many holydays does not have negative impact on economy. During all those long weekends people go out, travel, relax keeping active other economy sectors of the economy.
this is so true, I am Colombian and I have lived in different pasrts of the world and I can say I miss how easy it is to talk to a paisano(a) compared to any other person, I would say other nationalities like Mexicans are pretty similar and open to have a chat and get new friends, but europe is different in that sense.
Colombian here 🙋. You're absolutely right and I loved your video. It would be awesome if people all around the world thought like this. Like, instead of always comparing cultures and saying "we are better than you" or "our nation is the best in the world", just see what's good about every culture and incorporate those things in our individual and social selves. The world would be such a great place if we could really do that.
I'm Colombian living in New Jersey. The aggressiveness of drivers on the streets and highways here in the USA is remarkable. They try to hit you from behind if you don't go faster than the speed limit, they flash their lights at you to make you move aside beyond the speed limit, they try to cut you off, and they give you the finger out the window. I have driven in several South American countries (30 years) and have never been afraid to drive like I am here. Colombia has chaos in some parts of the cities, but I've never seen such aggressiveness.
@@andr3s1976 Buenas tardes amigo! I live in Medellin and people here drive like maniacs, but there is little to no road rage. Nobody screams and waves their fist and pulls out a gun. People are chill here and just accept the fact that there are good and bad people everywhere. Me encanta tu país ❤️ 🇨🇴
No, people in Colombia bring machetes in their cars. Is not like you said. The worst part of Colombia is the traffic. Drive in Colombia, specially Bogotá is a nightmare.
Im jealous that youve lived there so long.. Ive visited 3 times and love Colombia. The people are incredible and so polite and well spoken.. I cant wait to retire in Colombia..
In Medellín is an unforgivable sin not to greet people when you enter or exit a place. AK Joel, thank you for your insight, you've got my subscription.
Totally with you. That's why I love colombia so much. But about point 3. Well it might be in the big cities. But go to the coast and there nobody cares about shoes, long trousers, etc. The costenos are another world on it's own 😅
Couldn't agree more. I've been here 8 years now, and there is a lot the " more developed" countries could learn. In particular, fixing things instead of throwning them away. Cell phones, shoes, clothes, furtiture...the fix everything. Very economical.
My wife and I went to El desierto de la Tatacoa a gorgeous beautiful place to visit unfortunately she slipped and fell and braking her femur, I was surprised the amount of people who were willing including 2 young doctors helping me to take my wife in a rescue board she was in the hospital for 5 days the medical attention was excellent receiving a metal rod and 4 screws implanted once we went back to the United States the doctor who did the follow up and x rays was very surprised seeing how the surgery was done so excellent to the point that she said if she (the doctor) would’ve been in a medical condition like my wife did she wanted those doctors to make. We are ready to go back to visit Colombia again what a beautiful country the people are very friendly. El Eje Cafetero , Boyaca, Antioquia , Cartagena, San Andrés Island gorgeous place a paradise. The food was excellent and very inexpensive.
Colombians are very friendly and they always want to make friends. I should know I was born there. Very difficult to make friends in other countries if you are an adult 21 and older., 😢
Bro, I've enjoyed your content over the past year that I've lived in Colombia but in my opinion this is the best video you have ever done. You really encompassed many of the great benefits associated with the lifestyle here. Thank you for making such a positive and accurate video about a country that I love. 🙏
@@jefferyburch9877 I agree, this is Joel’s best video so far. Only a person who has lived in both cultures could describe so accurately the differences between Colombia vs. Australia/USA/Great Britain etc. I am from the USA, and when I travel back home to visit my family I immediately start counting the days when I can return to Medellin, where I am relaxed and happy.
Greetings from Colombia, thanks for the insights as a foreigner. I may add that people after any interaction may say before the farewell: God bless you!
I am Colombian and I have lived in the UK for 47 years and I can say that I do not have English friends like when you have a Colombian friend who is real, thank you for such nice comments about my beautiful land, what you say is very true, my country is unique with people who gives a lot of love, who is generous, has empathy, etc. Honestly, other countries do have a lot to learn from our beautiful people and culture, blessings xx
You nailed the first half of the video for me. The people are the best thing about Colombia. I love that there are more roundabouts and one way streets and less traffic lights. Traffic flows much better as far as I've seen. And i noticed way less road rage incidents compared to somewhere like Canada. I also love the creativity of the storefronts and signage. So many are so unique and absolutely beautiful. I could spend a day just in a small town like Santa Rosa taking photos of storefronts, restaurants and creative signage. And you see it in the big cities like Medellin as well.
Otra cosa que se resalta mucho sobre todo en la parte central de Colombia es su hospitalidad; llegas a una casa y te brindan un tinto o cafe con panela, arepa y se tiene una conversacion muy placentera y divertida!
Thank you very much for showing us (Colombians) in a good way; actually I am from Colombia and less that someone else points out our ways we might do not realize it 🥂
I guess the less drinking explains why you rarely see people fighting in bars or clubs in Colombia. When I used to go clubbing in Los Angeles, Houston or Miami, there was always some idiots yelling or fighting at some point during the night. I have noticed that Colombians are eating more and more fast food like Mexican and American food like Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Pizza. obesity is growing little by little there. In the past it was harder to find overweight people than it is now. Fast food is a no no. Even though I live in the states, I rarely eat it. Home cooking is the best way to go.
I hate fast food too mate, absolute garbage lol Btw, I lived in Mexico for a year and a half and they are MUCH worse when it comes to junk food. There's so much obesity there and it's common to see people walking around drinking from 2 litre bottles of Coca Cola (not the sugar free kind either lol)
@@AKJoel I also lived in central Mexico for four years, and I’ve never seen people consume so much Cocal Cola. Unbelievable how such a nasty American product has the negative influence that it does.
I'm colombian and I'm living in Cairns, Australia for nearly 5 years. I LOVE AUSTRALIA, the land of opportunities but I miss my family and colombian culture like say hi and thank you, like see people in the street or makes friends easy.The first time I try to hurt my self was in Australia 🥺 I didn't kbiw that I was suffering depression. I already own 2 houses in Australia also I nearly finish my barbering apprenticeship but is true sometimes I miss a simple chat or smile. I still love Australia, my dream isnooen at barber shop here and bring my sister ajd cousins to Australia. Thanks for your video, Very impressive that an Aussie loves my country ❤️🇨🇴🇦🇺
Although, I have lived in USA for three decades, I never encourage anybody to emigrate from Colombia, because I would feel guilty. There is no better place on Earth than Colombia, with problems and everything. I plan to retire in my beloved country.
It all starts with family and our culture. Families stick together , whenever there is a family reunion, most relatives shows up to the party and have a great time. Big families are the best, uncles, aunties, cousins, grandparents and even neighbors will come to enjoy a great time and great memories. And that’s what I think most countries are missing out.
I'm glad you enjoy and you like it here. I've been to other countries and we colombians are really friendly and we love to socialize a lot. I live in Bogotá and most of my friends from other countries love it here.
I spent 3 months in Jaco, Costa Rica without ever wearing shoes, only flip flops, Now, I am in Bogota, and I have to wear shoes, two longsleeve shirts and wear or carry a rain coat just in case.
Another: Colombians care way more about family than people in those other countries. That and the other reasons you posted are probably why Gallup's World Happiness poll has Colombia ranked #1* * when based on what people do
@@diegomendez5646 Not only disgusting, but also unsafe. You may hit or break your toes; you may get many diseases if you step on things that cause a wound or prick and the list goes on.
I'm Colombian born. Our family time is very important. Families are also very in our business.😅 We are rarely alone. There is always input, and someone who will walk with you to the store, help🤗 ypu fix something at home, watch a novela (soap). Many kids live with their parents even in their 20s. We go out to a bar or club with our parents, aunts, uncles, cousins. 🎉 Going out to buy bread at the corner bakery... you never go out messy. 👗👕 We always say, yes/no sir/mam. To everyone regardless of age, but definitely anyone older. Our grandparents live with us never placed in a elderly housing.
Thank you for doing this video, I’m Colombian and I missed my country and culture so much (and of course la ciclovia on Sundays ). I’m planning to go back soon ❤❤. I’m in Australian 😂😂 now . My hubby is Australian and he loves Colombia 🇨🇴 😅
I have seen more communities in the US with outdoor gyms in public parks. I will attest that the first place that I saw one was in Medellin. But, my local park provides a larger selection of exercises. 😂
Dirinking wise in Medellin is different. So many dont drink at all. Some are burried in some sort of athletics. But there is a ton of them that are huge drinkers too. 33% dont drink at all, 33% are super light drinkers and athletics is still a big part of their life, 33% are super heavy partiers and drinkers. Recently in Belin and in Laureles have noticed a few AA (Alchohlic Anonymous meeting places). I cherish all of the things you brought up. I work in an office environment and its always beun dia or some other greeting and never dawn on me they do always say good bye or something. I always say Filiz Dia. The other thing is some Colombians will make you start over if you dont say Buena Dia or tardes first. Puts a smile on my face when it happens. A little wierd that in the West we are all overall so direct in getting to the point but in reality we use subtle things and some time we think the other party got it and that message was received. When in fact it went over their head. I dont know if this is lationo or Colombian. They are super direct. I love it! But some may not. As always great video! I sometimes forget. In USA right now for family medical emergency and I miss all of this right now!
I Will say that this is more Paisa culture because here in Bogotá we tend to be more cold and those kind of things doesnt happen always. Its a shame because Bogotá is a beautiful City with beautiful People too but we dont have that warmness that the rest of the country has
Oh, yeah. Try to be open and friendly when someone is out there to rob you, or in bars they are trying to drug you to steal your stuff. Yep. Since the money is mainly in Bogota, it is a big city where people are coming from other cities, it is really insecure, so you can't expect people smiling at you all the time. But, when you somehow prove you have no bad intentions, people will be friendly and helpful. And last but not least, when you talk about Bogota in 2024, out of the 10;million people (including all the metropolitan area with small towns) you must be pretty certain that at least 80% of these people are from other cities or first or second generation Bogotans. So don't be too quick to judge
Mmm but at the same time we're friendlier that people from other countries. And i say it as someone who was born here in Bogotá and had live here for 30 years of my life. Maybe in the street we are not too friendly, but what he said of the elevator totally applies here, plus other stuffs
everyone's home is anyone's home in colombia.... if youre visiing and you tell anyone you meet that you're having a hard time finding a place to stay.... everyone at that table will jump at winning getting to give you a place to stay.
Regarding beer probably not as much as other countries… because here we drink aguardiente which is strong… not only that but more or less when you go out you are obliged to buy minimum consumption of a bottle for a couple… it’s a lot of alcohol… Been there done that… and back in the day… drive home afterwards…
Well it is exactly what he was saying english people needs to open up you can't go there and bring your way of living you need to mix up with the people and the customs.
Love your video! Thank you for all you said! I miss my country so bad. For sure, the USA is safer, but here is difficult to be friends with even your own neighbors. In Colombia, your neighbors become family! Here, one day, they greet you, and the next day they ignore you it sucks! So sad that we have that thing for president. If he leaves, we'll come back!
Thanks for your appreciation. I'm from Bogota and the scenery is completely opposite; contrary, right now, I live in Fort Lauderdale and I feel people here are very friendly, open, helpful, resourceful and even trust is based in the word of mouth! sadly, Bogota Has gotten in the last 20+ years full of immigrants making it the city of every one and of no one.
@@JuanPabloRojasW but arent you an immigrant in florida? im not bashing you im just confused at your “immigrants in bogota” comment yet you are are from bogota
That thing of frends.... is just for foreign... colombians are kind people but this changes when they meet a foreign (outside of south America) this is another level of kindness....
Indeed 🇨🇴 Colombians has a wonderful ❤personality and manners plus they are the best Spanish language speaking people around Latin America … really they are awesome 🤩 people . The only turn down 😢they always suffer for bad government decisions and political problems over the decades… sucks that such of wonderful people and country in the wrong 😑 hands !! Thanks 🙏 to share the awesome 🤩 of Colombians 🇨🇴!!!!! In our Spain 🇪🇸 we love 🥰 and respect 🫡 then a lot !!!
As a Colombian living in Melbourne, I can confirm that everyone here avoids human interaction all the time. You see that even in bars and other social places, which kind of sucks. For everything else, this is a great city.
What part of Melbourne are you in? Because not everyone in here avoids interaction. I have mingled with people through different activities and they are very social. Some take 'me time' when they need to be alone, but other than that, most people are friendly.
This is fun because I'm from Bogota, Colombia. The biggest an main city of Colombia and we are not like in Medellín or what you have in mind of Colombia. You really had been only in the fancy region of Medellin.
Two more Colombian habits we could learn. 1) They care for their elderly parents and relatives. They honor them and don't consider them to be a burden as many in other countries do. 2) Which kind of leads on from 1), parties are multi-generational affairs where it's common to see all ages from kids, to teenagers, to adults to older folks, all dancing together and having a good time.
Quite interesting that you mentioned appearance and Australia because I recently saw a viral video of Australians walking the streets barefoot. I was so taken aback until I thought to myself they are probably "grounding" just like how they like to do in Africa.
Yeah no, we have a huge drinking problem in colombia hahaha I get it, the fact that we go out to dance instead of just drinking does change things, but familiar and cultural celebrations end up with people in their homes drinking ridiculous amounts of beer, rum or aguardiente. That leads into violence later. Famously, one of the most violent days in the country is mother's day because families get together and drink and ugly things happen. I don't think the data you quote takes into account every drinking scenario in the country, and trust me we do A LOT of drinking.
As always, there is not worst enemy to Colombian's than its own patriots, always complaining about something of their country. Nobody said Colombia people don't drink, it is that compared to other countries it does not rank that high. In my family nobody drinks. Maybe yours does.
@AKJoel I saw all these things when I went to Medellín and I was very pleased. I hope to come back to Medellín again soon. I just have one more question is the healthcare system in Colombia private/public or universal?
You could say it’s universal. For example, if you are poor or don’t have a job and you need medical attention, the government will provide it for you, but the quality of the attention (available medicines, procedures, waiting time) is very different from the one you get if you have money, obviously. If you have a job, normally you are affiliated to a healthcare company called EPS and, if you pay an additional fee to that company, your healthcare plan will improve.
It´s mixed. There is a system by which the state tries to cover all people; you have to pay a small fee, if you earn more you pay more. From there you can pay a monthly fee and get an upgrade. And then you may also opt for private insurance and prepaid medicine.
Well, you don't want to lose control of your faculties in Colombia or you might not even wake up. No dar papaya. I was in a supermarket in Medellin and this girl was trying to hand out soda samples, but most people there refuse to drink gaseosas. Here in the USA we'd be like, "Yes, give me that." And when you thank a worker in Colombia, they say "Con gusto" or "Con mucho gusto." I don't hear that with Hispanics here in the States. Another reason for socializing is safety in numbers, especially when going out at night. In the end, it's pretty much a different culture.
I ran out of water at the gym yesterday and a nice lady gave me some from her bottle. I drank it and I haven't died yet lol but yes you're right, it's a super different culture down here!
Some people don't like to take gifts or samples at the supermarket, but this is not the rule in Colombia. We think it's safe to drink or eat something that is given inside the supermarket, even in some campaigns of famous brands in the streets but outside when the person and the product is not recognised we prefer not to accept. Also, in Bogota people don't talk easily with strangers because we are afraid the other asks anything just for stealing.
I dont feel obsessing over your looks is good but I do think is important to care about your appearance in certain situation, at least wearing shows on a plane is important
You forgot FAMILY and school friends. Families seldom split in different cities. School mates generally go from K to 12 together, so much that dating your schoolmates is very rare ... because they are like your brothers and sisters
Haha cool video thnx... I put in a nut shell l as the driking issue Colombians like rumba and americans like to party! Rumba, dance and we drink Party, drink and if you can dance 😂
Positive information! Tennis is something we also have in common. Let me know best way to reach you. I will make contact with you when I get to Medellin.
I'm Colombian living in New Jersey. Arrogance is very common here. the best example of this is: The pedestrians, many of them ignores the lights (Semaforos) pedestrians cross the streets with out looking if a car is coming or going, they don't care if the light is red or green and if you touch the horn to them...big problem, they give you the middle finger and scream to you... Fck...you. I can see that every single day.
good morning AK, Mike Faca here. I just returned from Colombia. Quick question. I am not an expat as I travel for up to three months then return. This means that I am not an expat, I am a Flexpat. Please let me know what you think about this approach. Thanks
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Colombian here - adding a couple of things: 1. We always say “thank you”, it could be to anyone (a waiter, someone who open the door for you, Uber driver, etc..) and sometimes we can say it more than once to the same person (like every time the waiter brings a new dish to the table..) 2. We always say “please”, even if it’s a small thing like “could you grab that for me, please ?”. Both of these (please and thank you) plus the “Good day, good morning, good afternoon..” is something that our parents teach us at a very young age, just to show appreciation and respect to the people around you. 3. We care a lot about hygiene: taking a shower, putting deodorant, brushing your teeth, washing your hands (several times, like before eating, after eating, if you touched something dirty, etc..) 4. If you put on some perfume as well (being clean + smelling good) = what a great combo!! 👏👏😄
4. Except when people use pachuli at 5 PM in the MetroPlus and you are about to asphyxiate from the mix of body odour and pachuli, lol
muchisimas gracias, Dios le bendiga
We Colombians get easily depressed in some foreign land when people just do their thing and ignore the basic smile and salute...
I can attest to that.
this!!!
took me about 3-4 years to figure out what it takes to make (actual) friends around here.... they dont make it AS easy.
I completely agree. We are gold
I just can't understand how people greet you without smiling. It is just so bad that I would rather them not to say hello at all
That's so trueee 😢
Thank you for bringing up the good side of Colombians. Colombia‘s reputation was tarnished for decades, but there is a lot of good in the country. Another positive point: Colombians are accepting of each other’s race. Just watch Disney’s Encanto, where there are all kinds of races in one single family! It is a rich, mestizo culture.
"Encanto" does not reflect Colombian culture, ... that is what Dsney. .. wants you to believe about the world, not only @ colombia but the world.....
You forgot the fact Colombia has high quality food as its regular food. One month later after you landed you look better and healthier because of the organic food
Joop yummy in the Tummy.. empanadas, bandeja paisa 😋
GREAT point! 😊
Absolutely true. I delight in Sunday activities and the wonderful feeling of never being alone in Colombia.
Such a contrast. In the UK, if you greeted someone in an elevator, they'd automatically assume you're a weirdo and have nefarious intentions. That's how horrifically western society has fallen.
Or maybe a Northener
Colombia is a western country
So true Dylan man!!! That is soo true!!!
@@humbertobotero6491the western concept isn't geographical is political, and it means USA and most of Europe.
People in the UK even struggle to reply when you greed them with good morning or good afternoon. They walk into the office without even looking at others.
Music and dancing are a must. Nobody cares if you "know " hot to, just hit that dance floor or your house living room, great workout and perfect to help you through the day.
I'm a colombian living in USA, my husband ( lebanese) adores Colombia 🇨🇴, he finds it is the most welcoming place on Earth, he cannot believes how people approach to you so easily, the sense of community, he is happier there . His dream is to live there after retirement and mine, too.❤🎉
Colombian here - Another good thing Colombians have is that they also care for their hygiene and dental health. Taking care of your teeth is very important there.
-And yes, many people say that after 30, they no longer make new friends, but in Colombia, they are always very open to meeting new people no matter what stage of your life you are at. Even Colombians abroad are very good at making friends.
-I believe that Colombians suffer less from loneliness and depression compared to other cultures, but I believe that we "purposely" seek to talk and share with family and friends, we do not wait for others to come and call us. Even adult Colombians of any age would call a friend or family member to tell them that we feel sad and need to talk. In other cultures it is not frowned upon for adults to express their emotions in that way.
Good hygiene is something any person with common sense should have no matter what country your from your from . How is taking care of yourself a Colombian thing .
Here in the states you'll see people in supermarkets wearing pajamas, rollers in their hair and house slippers.
You'll never see that in Colombia.
Colombians are overly concerned about personal hygiene. Smelling good is important. Unless you're dirt poor, you make sure your clothing is ironed and clean. Let's face it. People in the states for the most part don't care about tidiness. An oversized T-shirt, a pair of old jeans or shorts and flip flops and it's all good. Not saying it's a bad thing. It's just a different culture.
@@Katzc22 I have lived in Mexico and Colombia, and Colombians are more fastidious with their dental hygiene.
@@LouieManza You are correct, but you are much nicer than I am. I don’t miss being around American slobs one little bit. They disgust me.
I've lived in Mexico for over 2 years and barely had any friends. I went to colombia for one month and had close to a dozen new friends. I could have had many more. You just meet people and enjoy meeting people even if you're not a people person. The vibe just brings it out of you. Incredible country and people. Edit: I'm 48 years old btw 😊
Thank you for these videos my friend. As a Colombian living abroad is very refreshing to see the views from foreigners. It reminds me of the things we should always feel proud of
I'm Colombian, I have lived abroad and I'll tell you a couple of extra good cultural points in comparison with other countries. We are low drama overall, in consequence, we are easygoing. We are very welcoming to people from abroad.
we like to celebrate absolutely EVERYTHING. anyone’s achievement around the world representing Colombia will certainly be acknowledged and taken with pride, no matter the discipline or talent.
Really meaningless when you only support those that have finally made it & prospered. The lack of support for developing athletes is well documented and clearly demonstrated even at higher levels such as the last World Cup when the country felt 'disgraced' & abandoned the team after they failed to qualify. Everyone loves the player's & feels patriotic now that they're in the Final of Copa America 🥱
I mean, i think that its understandablr to be upset that your country is underperforming. Obviously nobody is gonna feel happy if the national team doesnt qualify while playing horrible football.
Joel, I wish that I could give you ten thumbs up for this video. I just returned from a 4 km walk with my dog in el centro. Everyone wanted to pet my dog and play with her. I love walking in el centro on Sunday afternoons, the people are more relaxed and the traffic is much lighter. Amo mi Medellín 💗
It's such a different vibe in Medellin hey! What a place :)
You missed one Big, Huge point. They have 15 or more statutory holidays in the year and most of them they move to the next Monday. It is proofed that too many holydays does not have negative impact on economy. During all those long weekends people go out, travel, relax keeping active other economy sectors of the economy.
this is so true, I am Colombian and I have lived in different pasrts of the world and I can say I miss how easy it is to talk to a paisano(a) compared to any other person, I would say other nationalities like Mexicans are pretty similar and open to have a chat and get new friends, but europe is different in that sense.
Colombian here 🙋. You're absolutely right and I loved your video. It would be awesome if people all around the world thought like this. Like, instead of always comparing cultures and saying "we are better than you" or "our nation is the best in the world", just see what's good about every culture and incorporate those things in our individual and social selves. The world would be such a great place if we could really do that.
@@diegoramirez8497 yes! Learn and take the best from everywhere.
Saludos desde Neiva Colombia, appreciate the video, each time I visit I learn , listen and laugh with "new" family ❤ 🇨🇴
I'm Colombian living in New Jersey. The aggressiveness of drivers on the streets and highways here in the USA is remarkable. They try to hit you from behind if you don't go faster than the speed limit, they flash their lights at you to make you move aside beyond the speed limit, they try to cut you off, and they give you the finger out the window. I have driven in several South American countries (30 years) and have never been afraid to drive like I am here. Colombia has chaos in some parts of the cities, but I've never seen such aggressiveness.
@@andr3s1976 Buenas tardes amigo! I live in Medellin and people here drive like maniacs, but there is little to no road rage. Nobody screams and waves their fist and pulls out a gun. People are chill here and just accept the fact that there are good and bad people everywhere. Me encanta tu país ❤️ 🇨🇴
No, people in Colombia bring machetes in their cars. Is not like you said. The worst part of Colombia is the traffic. Drive in Colombia, specially Bogotá is a nightmare.
@@jeffschueler1182 They do pull guns at your in Colombia. It has happen to me.
@@vozenoffpodcast Machetes?? I don't think so, they have "crucetas" !!!
@@vozenoffpodcast, any big city in the whole entire globe the traffic is crazy.
Im jealous that youve lived there so long.. Ive visited 3 times and love Colombia. The people are incredible and so polite and well spoken.. I cant wait to retire in Colombia..
Thank you for talking good things about my country.
No worries :)
Colombians exemplify Kindness. Always ready to help someone in need, specially foreigners.... ❤❤❤
In Medellín is an unforgivable sin not to greet people when you enter or exit a place. AK Joel, thank you for your insight, you've got my subscription.
Totally with you. That's why I love colombia so much.
But about point 3. Well it might be in the big cities. But go to the coast and there nobody cares about shoes, long trousers, etc. The costenos are another world on it's own 😅
Barranquilla is a big city in the coast. People do care a lot for their appearance there, I’d say WAY more than other regions.
Yeah, but the weather is really hot there so it's comprehensible
Couldn't agree more. I've been here 8 years now, and there is a lot the " more developed" countries could learn. In particular, fixing things instead of throwning them away. Cell phones, shoes, clothes, furtiture...the fix everything. Very economical.
My wife and I went to El desierto de la Tatacoa a gorgeous beautiful place to visit unfortunately she slipped and fell and braking her femur, I was surprised the amount of people who were willing including 2 young doctors helping me to take my wife in a rescue board she was in the hospital for 5 days the medical attention was excellent receiving a metal rod and 4 screws implanted once we went back to the United States the doctor who did the follow up and x rays was very surprised seeing how the surgery was done so excellent to the point that she said if she (the doctor) would’ve been in a medical condition like my wife did she wanted those doctors to make. We are ready to go back to visit Colombia again what a beautiful country the people are very friendly. El Eje Cafetero , Boyaca, Antioquia , Cartagena, San Andrés Island gorgeous place a paradise. The food was excellent and very inexpensive.
Colombians are very friendly and they always want to make friends. I should know I was born there. Very difficult to make friends in other countries if you are an adult 21 and older., 😢
0:29 Friendliness
2:52 Openness
4:21 Appearance
5:13 Drinking Culture
7:07 Healthy Living
Am in Mexico City now.Everyone walks around with their head down.Sounds like I need to go to Colombia..
Mexico City is basically the US now lol
@@AKJoel no joke...It's a beautiful city..but the stress vibe is similar to the states.Probably because it's so expensive to live here.
Mexico does more witchcraft then colombia
Medellin is awesome. Cartagena is beautiful. Bogota is bustling. Columbia is safer than the USA!
Entonces no le va gustar Bogotá.
Colombians are the kindest people I have ever met.
Bro, I've enjoyed your content over the past year that I've lived in Colombia but in my opinion this is the best video you have ever done. You really encompassed many of the great benefits associated with the lifestyle here. Thank you for making such a positive and accurate video about a country that I love. 🙏
Thanks mate! Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
@@jefferyburch9877 I agree, this is Joel’s best video so far. Only a person who has lived in both cultures could describe so accurately the differences between Colombia vs. Australia/USA/Great Britain etc. I am from the USA, and when I travel back home to visit my family I immediately start counting the days when I can return to Medellin, where I am relaxed and happy.
Greetings from Colombia, thanks for the insights as a foreigner. I may add that people after any interaction may say before the farewell: God bless you!
I am Colombian and I have lived in the UK for 47 years and I can say that I do not have English friends like when you have a Colombian friend who is real, thank you for such nice comments about my beautiful land, what you say is very true, my country is unique with people who gives a lot of love, who is generous, has empathy, etc. Honestly, other countries do have a lot to learn from our beautiful people and culture, blessings xx
You nailed the first half of the video for me. The people are the best thing about Colombia.
I love that there are more roundabouts and one way streets and less traffic lights. Traffic flows much better as far as I've seen. And i noticed way less road rage incidents compared to somewhere like Canada. I also love the creativity of the storefronts and signage. So many are so unique and absolutely beautiful. I could spend a day just in a small town like Santa Rosa taking photos of storefronts, restaurants and creative signage. And you see it in the big cities like Medellin as well.
Obviously you've never been to Bogota. The traffic is the worst I've ever seen in my life. And I lived and been to Miami, NYC, and LA
Great points, #5, physical activity is a huge one for me. That and the friendly people. Perfect!
Yeah I love seeing everyone active around me, forces me to stop being lazy haha
Otra cosa que se resalta mucho sobre todo en la parte central de Colombia es su hospitalidad; llegas a una casa y te brindan un tinto o cafe con panela, arepa y se tiene una conversacion muy placentera y divertida!
Thank you very much for showing us (Colombians) in a good way; actually I am from Colombia and less that someone else points out our ways we might do not realize it 🥂
I guess the less drinking explains why you rarely see people fighting in bars or clubs in Colombia. When I used to go clubbing in Los Angeles, Houston or Miami, there was always some idiots yelling or fighting at some point during the night.
I have noticed that Colombians are eating more and more fast food like Mexican and American food like Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Pizza. obesity is growing little by little there. In the past it was harder to find overweight people than it is now. Fast food is a no no. Even though I live in the states, I rarely eat it. Home cooking is the best way to go.
I hate fast food too mate, absolute garbage lol
Btw, I lived in Mexico for a year and a half and they are MUCH worse when it comes to junk food. There's so much obesity there and it's common to see people walking around drinking from 2 litre bottles of Coca Cola (not the sugar free kind either lol)
@@AKJoel I also lived in central Mexico for four years, and I’ve never seen people consume so much Cocal Cola. Unbelievable how such a nasty American product has the negative influence that it does.
im sacred now lol, I dont want to lose the beauty of socializing with everyone when I leave colombia
Cali is a lot more friendly. I mean a lot MORE.
I'm colombian and I'm living in Cairns, Australia for nearly 5 years. I LOVE AUSTRALIA, the land of opportunities but I miss my family and colombian culture like say hi and thank you, like see people in the street or makes friends easy.The first time I try to hurt my self was in Australia 🥺 I didn't kbiw that I was suffering depression.
I already own 2 houses in Australia also I nearly finish my barbering apprenticeship but is true sometimes I miss a simple chat or smile.
I still love Australia, my dream isnooen at barber shop here and bring my sister ajd cousins to Australia.
Thanks for your video, Very impressive that an Aussie loves my country ❤️🇨🇴🇦🇺
Although, I have lived in USA for three decades, I never encourage anybody to emigrate from Colombia, because I would feel guilty. There is no better place on Earth than Colombia, with problems and everything. I plan to retire in my beloved country.
It all starts with family and our culture. Families stick together , whenever there is a family reunion, most relatives shows up to the party and have a great time. Big families are the best, uncles, aunties, cousins, grandparents and even neighbors will come to enjoy a great time and great memories. And that’s what I think most countries are missing out.
I'm glad you enjoy and you like it here. I've been to other countries and we colombians are really friendly and we love to socialize a lot. I live in Bogotá and most of my friends from other countries love it here.
I spent 3 months in Jaco, Costa Rica without ever wearing shoes, only flip flops, Now, I am in Bogota, and I have to wear shoes, two longsleeve shirts and wear or carry a rain coat just in case.
La fortuna is better
Uvita & Dominical are beautiful non tourist beaches in Costa Rica… Cartagena is a nice touristy beach town in Columbia
Another: Colombians care way more about family than people in those other countries.
That and the other reasons you posted are probably why Gallup's World Happiness poll has Colombia ranked #1*
* when based on what people do
I could not agree more with you, Colombians are family centric people. They have good priorities.
I’m originally from NZ. I LOVE that we can walk barefoot there and it’s ok!
That can be disgusting here lol.
@@diegomendez5646 Not only disgusting, but also unsafe. You may hit or break your toes; you may get many diseases if you step on things that cause a wound or prick and the list goes on.
I'm Colombian. I LOVE Walking Barefoot
Maybe that's why New Zealand people have more athlete's foot 😁.
great video... happy to know you like it here. 🎉🎉❤❤
I'm Colombian born. Our family time is very important. Families are also very in our business.😅 We are rarely alone. There is always input, and someone who will walk with you to the store, help🤗 ypu fix something at home, watch a novela (soap). Many kids live with their parents even in their 20s. We go out to a bar or club with our parents, aunts, uncles, cousins. 🎉
Going out to buy bread at the corner bakery... you never go out messy. 👗👕
We always say, yes/no sir/mam. To everyone regardless of age, but definitely anyone older. Our grandparents live with us never placed in a elderly housing.
Great video! 🎉🎉
Thank you for doing this video, I’m Colombian and I missed my country and culture so much (and of course la ciclovia on Sundays ). I’m planning to go back soon ❤❤. I’m in Australian 😂😂 now . My hubby is Australian and he loves Colombia 🇨🇴 😅
All good points!!
I have seen more communities in the US with outdoor gyms in public parks. I will attest that the first place that I saw one was in Medellin. But, my local park provides a larger selection of exercises. 😂
Dirinking wise in Medellin is different. So many dont drink at all. Some are burried in some sort of athletics. But there is a ton of them that are huge drinkers too. 33% dont drink at all, 33% are super light drinkers and athletics is still a big part of their life, 33% are super heavy partiers and drinkers. Recently in Belin and in Laureles have noticed a few AA (Alchohlic Anonymous meeting places). I cherish all of the things you brought up. I work in an office environment and its always beun dia or some other greeting and never dawn on me they do always say good bye or something. I always say Filiz Dia. The other thing is some Colombians will make you start over if you dont say Buena Dia or tardes first. Puts a smile on my face when it happens. A little wierd that in the West we are all overall so direct in getting to the point but in reality we use subtle things and some time we think the other party got it and that message was received. When in fact it went over their head. I dont know if this is lationo or Colombian. They are super direct. I love it! But some may not. As always great video! I sometimes forget. In USA right now for family medical emergency and I miss all of this right now!
Hope you can get back here and enjoy all of this soon mate!
I Will say that this is more Paisa culture because here in Bogotá we tend to be more cold and those kind of things doesnt happen always. Its a shame because Bogotá is a beautiful City with beautiful People too but we dont have that warmness that the rest of the country has
Oh, yeah. Try to be open and friendly when someone is out there to rob you, or in bars they are trying to drug you to steal your stuff. Yep. Since the money is mainly in Bogota, it is a big city where people are coming from other cities, it is really insecure, so you can't expect people smiling at you all the time. But, when you somehow prove you have no bad intentions, people will be friendly and helpful.
And last but not least, when you talk about Bogota in 2024, out of the 10;million people (including all the metropolitan area with small towns) you must be pretty certain that at least 80% of these people are from other cities or first or second generation Bogotans.
So don't be too quick to judge
Compared to other countries we pretty much are, now to other regions you might be right.
Mmm but at the same time we're friendlier that people from other countries. And i say it as someone who was born here in Bogotá and had live here for 30 years of my life.
Maybe in the street we are not too friendly, but what he said of the elevator totally applies here, plus other stuffs
Bogota people are good too, they are very warm compared to people in other countries. Maybe colder than paisas but they are awesome people too
In the coast every one is so friendly and happy to share anything like food.
Also the weekend is to party. Life is a carnival. 🎉🎉🎉
The loneliness factor is huge; great bonus to live in COL. “Life with David” YT channel agrees with you on this point!
everyone's home is anyone's home in colombia.... if youre visiing and you tell anyone you meet that you're having a hard time finding a place to stay.... everyone at that table will jump at winning getting to give you a place to stay.
Disfruté mucho tu video. Gracias por recordarnos cosas de las que podemos sentirnos orgullosos
Con mucho gusto :)
the appearance is so on point the ladies literally make up to go to the local store to buy some bread for breakfast 😅
Appreciate it as a Colombian 😄
I'm in Japan, and it's totally the opposite, now I understand why despite being a big population people are alone are suicide is common 😢
Interesting video, and congratulations.
Thank you very much!
Gracias por hablar bién de mi País. Y de nuestras buenas cualidades!!
Awesome video ❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you 🤗
Regarding beer probably not as much as other countries… because here we drink aguardiente which is strong… not only that but more or less when you go out you are obliged to buy minimum consumption of a bottle for a couple… it’s a lot of alcohol… Been there done that… and back in the day… drive home afterwards…
If someone partied as young, that was me, and I never had to drink. Nobody is going to obligate me to do it.
Congrats on getting married dude 🎉
Cheers bud!
There is another problem here. They expect me to dance. I am English. I can't.
Well it is exactly what he was saying english people needs to open up you can't go there and bring your way of living you need to mix up with the people and the customs.
You’re English mate, not in a wheelchair. Welcome and have fun dancing.
You can try and learn. Most Colombians would be happy to teach you at least some basic dancing steps.
If you want to dance, you can dance, you'll meet friends who will teach you, you just have to show up at a bar 😂 colombian speaking from experience
Try "merengue"
Thanks, Aussie King Joel!
Aussie King, I like that one!! haha thanks mate
The party in Colombia is to dance and have fun. Here in the USA. Are drinks nonstop My experience
Real good points!
Thanks!
Thanks for put Medellin looking good xoxo
Con mucho gusto! 😊
Thank you
Love your video! Thank you for all you said! I miss my country so bad. For sure, the USA is safer, but here is difficult to be friends with even your own neighbors. In Colombia, your neighbors become family! Here, one day, they greet you, and the next day they ignore you it sucks! So sad that we have that thing for president. If he leaves, we'll come back!
Really nice topic.
Thanks for your appreciation. I'm from Bogota and the scenery is completely opposite; contrary, right now, I live in Fort Lauderdale and I feel people here are very friendly, open, helpful, resourceful and even trust is based in the word of mouth! sadly, Bogota Has gotten in the last 20+ years full of immigrants making it the city of every one and of no one.
@@JuanPabloRojasW but arent you an immigrant in florida? im not bashing you im just confused at your “immigrants in bogota” comment yet you are are from bogota
That thing of frends.... is just for foreign... colombians are kind people but this changes when they meet a foreign (outside of south America) this is another level of kindness....
Colombians love to cook and share with their neighbours. Or if you go to visit them. They immediately want to make you a plate of food. ❤
Indeed 🇨🇴 Colombians has a wonderful ❤personality and manners plus they are the best Spanish language speaking people around Latin America … really they are awesome 🤩 people . The only turn down 😢they always suffer for bad government decisions and political problems over the decades… sucks that such of wonderful people and country in the wrong 😑 hands !! Thanks 🙏 to share the awesome 🤩 of Colombians 🇨🇴!!!!! In our Spain 🇪🇸 we love 🥰 and respect 🫡 then a lot !!!
Thank you for this ❤.
I'm living in the UK... people have no idea what we really are 😂... 🇨🇴
#colombiathecountryofbeauty... with the best people of the world. colombians are really friendly!
Colombia tierra querida!
Oh yes somos muy cultos alegres agradecidos y a pesar de las circunstancias somos felices
As a Colombian living in Melbourne, I can confirm that everyone here avoids human interaction all the time. You see that even in bars and other social places, which kind of sucks. For everything else, this is a great city.
I'm from Melbourne, so I feel you mate! Enjoy your time there 🙂
What part of Melbourne are you in? Because not everyone in here avoids interaction. I have mingled with people through different activities and they are very social. Some take 'me time' when they need to be alone, but other than that, most people are friendly.
Buen analisis
Number One, best thing from Colombia, the food!
This is fun because I'm from Bogota, Colombia. The biggest an main city of Colombia and we are not like in Medellín or what you have in mind of Colombia.
You really had been only in the fancy region of Medellin.
Two more Colombian habits we could learn. 1) They care for their elderly parents and relatives. They honor them and don't consider them to be a burden as many in other countries do. 2) Which kind of leads on from 1), parties are multi-generational affairs where it's common to see all ages from kids, to teenagers, to adults to older folks, all dancing together and having a good time.
In Colombia, Eje Cafetero, we dance, and drink drink drink
Thanks!
Thank you!!
it s easy to drink less when you work 6 days out of 7 with 12 hours shifts
Quite interesting that you mentioned appearance and Australia because I recently saw a viral video of Australians walking the streets barefoot. I was so taken aback until I thought to myself they are probably "grounding" just like how they like to do in Africa.
Haha it's crazy for anyone who's not Aussie but we find it super normal!
Yeah no, we have a huge drinking problem in colombia hahaha I get it, the fact that we go out to dance instead of just drinking does change things, but familiar and cultural celebrations end up with people in their homes drinking ridiculous amounts of beer, rum or aguardiente. That leads into violence later. Famously, one of the most violent days in the country is mother's day because families get together and drink and ugly things happen.
I don't think the data you quote takes into account every drinking scenario in the country, and trust me we do A LOT of drinking.
As always, there is not worst enemy to Colombian's than its own patriots, always complaining about something of their country. Nobody said Colombia people don't drink, it is that compared to other countries it does not rank that high. In my family nobody drinks. Maybe yours does.
@AKJoel I saw all these things when I went to Medellín and I was very pleased. I hope to come back to Medellín again soon. I just have one more question is the healthcare system in Colombia private/public or universal?
You could say it’s universal. For example, if you are poor or don’t have a job and you need medical attention, the government will provide it for you, but the quality of the attention (available medicines, procedures, waiting time) is very different from the one you get if you have money, obviously. If you have a job, normally you are affiliated to a healthcare company called EPS and, if you pay an additional fee to that company, your healthcare plan will improve.
It´s mixed. There is a system by which the state tries to cover all people; you have to pay a small fee, if you earn more you pay more. From there you can pay a monthly fee and get an upgrade. And then you may also opt for private insurance and prepaid medicine.
Colombian in the US, you’re not wrong about all the US stuff. Facts!
Well, you don't want to lose control of your faculties in Colombia or you might not even wake up. No dar papaya. I was in a supermarket in Medellin and this girl was trying to hand out soda samples, but most people there refuse to drink gaseosas. Here in the USA we'd be like, "Yes, give me that." And when you thank a worker in Colombia, they say "Con gusto" or "Con mucho gusto." I don't hear that with Hispanics here in the States. Another reason for socializing is safety in numbers, especially when going out at night. In the end, it's pretty much a different culture.
I ran out of water at the gym yesterday and a nice lady gave me some from her bottle. I drank it and I haven't died yet lol but yes you're right, it's a super different culture down here!
Some people don't like to take gifts or samples at the supermarket, but this is not the rule in Colombia. We think it's safe to drink or eat something that is given inside the supermarket, even in some campaigns of famous brands in the streets but outside when the person and the product is not recognised we prefer not to accept.
Also, in Bogota people don't talk easily with strangers because we are afraid the other asks anything just for stealing.
I dont feel obsessing over your looks is good but I do think is important to care about your appearance in certain situation, at least wearing shows on a plane is important
You forgot FAMILY and school friends. Families seldom split in different cities. School mates generally go from K to 12 together, so much that dating your schoolmates is very rare ... because they are like your brothers and sisters
Haha cool video thnx...
I put in a nut shell l as the driking issue
Colombians like rumba and americans like to party!
Rumba, dance and we drink
Party, drink and if you can dance 😂
Ohhh .... what about the horrible discrimination of the americans and europeans??....SO PROUD TO BE COLOMBIAN... !!!!!
Positive information! Tennis is something we also have in common. Let me know best way to reach you. I will make contact with you when I get to Medellin.
I'm Colombian living in New Jersey. Arrogance is very common here. the best example of this is: The pedestrians, many of them ignores the lights (Semaforos) pedestrians cross the streets with out looking if a car is coming or going, they don't care if the light is red or green and if you touch the horn to them...big problem, they give you the middle finger and scream to you... Fck...you. I can see that every single day.
good morning AK, Mike Faca here. I just returned from Colombia. Quick question. I am not an expat as I travel for up to three months then return. This means that I am not an expat, I am a Flexpat. Please let me know what you think about this approach. Thanks