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colombia is one of the best countries in the world where i ever was. the people are pure and amazing and respectfully and happy ❤ love for my people in colombia i never wil forgot how the people treat me i always go back
Colombian people are not 'pure'. Colombian men invite girls for a trip because they want to fuck them. How is that any purer than anywhere else? They have many nice habits, but many Colombians will not think twice about earning $$$ on you, even if it hurts. All good. There's for sure more good Colombians than the bad ones - I trust in that. But seriously - no need to romanticize.
Colombian society is very family- oriented. Living in Colombia as a gringo without the help and support of a family is going to be a challenge. Love the videos Wes 👍
This is the realest video on Colombia from a UA-camr. Been tired of hearing "Colombia is safe if you know how to move". Quality of Life And peace of mind involves feeling safe. That's why I personally would only visit.
Exactly, don't come. No more gringos here, go gentrify somewhere else. You don't pay taxes, or really contribute in any way. Go to Phillipines or something.
Wes I've been going ot Colombia 3-5 times a yr since 2016 for as long as a month at a time & yes I speak Spanish. I agree with most of your points bc of the people in Colombia. Some of my best friends are Colombian. You are missing out on a BIG part bc you are not a cyclist. Colombian is a cycling paradise!! Hands down! How do you think I know? Stunning scenery, leg breaking climbs, inexpensive home cooked food everywhere & on... But I'm Canadian & no matter how much I tell people about Colombia - Canadians don't believe it, but that's typical Canadian culture, ppl are homogoneous & close minded. AmoColombia!
The two top reasons he mentioned (cost/women) are very realistic but regardless, I wouldn't move to a completely foreign place if it doesn't support my hobbies - cycling. I chose mx over co for my digital nomad location for personal reasons, but bc co is a cycling macca in Latin Am, I have always consider living or retire there one day.. The famous Letras longest climb in the world, the weather that offers 365/day, the route stops, the cycling communities, all that matters more than just cost/women
Hola , well this Canadian believes it because I live in Antioquia! ;) ...lol.. And my "paisa" wife is an extreme hiker so no I don't do bicycling but I definitely see tons of cyclists here outside of the city. I'll just stick to treking for now...buena suerte!!...Vancouver Island/Medellin Tom
OMG, I'm a USA resident, travel all over the world, and love cycling...BUT good luck! Colombia is DANGEROUS for cyclists! I have been spending a ton of time in Bogota, Colombia---cyclists are all over the place, but they are getting HIT all over the place by cars who hate them. THere are few if any barriers to cars in the cities, and if you are on a rural road, again, these roads are narrow. If you are a cyclist the best countries to stay in are those in first world development, because they have the cash to fund dividers between cyclists and cars. Please share with us exactly where you are finding success as a cyclist in Colombia, that is a SAFE place!
@@pf4773 Rio Negro... Here's a clue - when interacting.with cars cyclists always need tonride defensively & competently bc in the event of a collision obviously the cyclist is worse off But primarily in Colombia cycling is much more prevalent & respected as a sport - not in Canada One more FACT: Colombia is NOT a third world country - modern infrastructures ok... Stay home if it scares you I love these people!
Being safe can be a little subjective, my experience as a person born and raised in a 3rd world country and then visiting other developed nations and then moving to Canada and become a Canadian is that I have already seen so may scams ,robberies and crimes in my country of origin living as a child and young adult that give me exposure knowledge and tools to counter these thing better then an average American or Canadian or European etc who was born in these countries and have never experienced or seen extreme poverty and crimes like that so I feel more safe there because compared to an average gringo I am better prepared for these situation
If you take high paying jobs and freedom away from USA its a shit hole. If you take away low cost of living and women from Colombia its a shit hole. Point is you can always look at things negatively. Its all about perspective.
I think im the minority, the only reason I would move to Colombia is to live in the rural areas (Not near Medellin & Bogota & areas where there's rebel fighters) in not so much known areas. But this can be applied to other Latam Countries.
@@johnclark8637 Depends, You got the ELN, Dissidents of the FARC, Paramililitary like Clan del golfo. Could be be in the pacific side, others by the Venezuelan Border other in the South. Other smaller groups (Supporting Cartels) here and there that be displacing indigenous people.
Good job. I can't disagree with anything you say except about Medellin. I've lived here full time for almost 8 years. I walk the streets every day and enjoy life here a great deal; which means that I've adapted to and overcome all the true but negative aspects you point out. If I ever get mugged I'll just give it up. I only carry enough money (no credit card) on me to get through the day and my phone is nice but not expensive to replace. But like I say, so far nothing like that has happened. Living in Miami for 33 years helped me a lot. I am still going through a little culture shock but basically when I moved here I hit the ground running with good Spanish skills & the right rhythm. I may have gotten taken on a few little scama but my happiness does not depend on winning every battle. Also, I'm retired so I don't have the stress of hustling around the big city and it takes a lot more than before to upset me. Big picture I'm way ahead. Again, what you have to say in this video is really accurate and well put. Kudos.
This is one of your greatest videos, and you speak truth! I have heard these things from the Colombian 's that I talk to and everyone of them wants to leave
For those of you not familiar with Colombia, Paisa is the culture of the region of Antioquia where medellin is located. I’m married to a Costeña (a girl from the coast). I had lots of fun dating in colombia, but it’s true, most of the girls I dated were from other regions.
A great video, thanks agree with everything you said! I haven't been to the Philippines in twenty years but look forward to visiting soon. I wish more YTers would just tell it like it is but few don't, thanks.
I'm in Medellin and I've been here a month. I'm pretty sure I will get the nomad visa and stay until that's up but not here. Even though I'm enjoying myself I feel what you're saying about the safety issues and the toxic expats. I don't necessarily feel like I'm in imminent danger all day everyday but there's certainly a sense that danger is never too far away. I tried meeting and hanging out with some expats and really felt like I was in MORE danger with them because they weren't moving very smart - which is the bare minimum for safety in any area of the world. As for the women... this is not a place where the thirsty will survive, literally. You better be able to think with the right head when dealing with women out here. A month isn't that long but based on my experience so far, I have zero faith I'll find a wife in Medellin 😆 Thanks for another solid video man 👊
U can't find a wife in Colombia. Man i can find a few girlfriends over there and 2 wives. Its alote cheaper and better women then Usa. In usa there alote of stuck up attitude girls abd some are nuts. Some people here nuts too. I guess they get deppresed or have issues. I rather travel. U just need skills and Spanish and have more faith. Blessing s
So agree with you about how certain expats don't know how to move. They are that friend that you always had to take up for as a teenager, because they were mouthing off to the wrong folks and can't fight. In Colombia, that can get you killed.
Thanks for your honest opinions of how things are going in Columbia. It is such a beautiful country, what a shame that, at least in the larger cities, corruption is allowed to run rampant and that the quality of living for locals gets degraded.
Thank you for a very real and honest video on Colombia. Many UA-camrs I see talking about Colombia, It’s all oh it’s graded safe. Yeah you have to worry a little but, as long as you know what you’re doing it’s OK.
I enjoyed your video and agree with almost everything that you had to say. I met a lady in Barranquilla and we are going to be married soon and living here in Costa Rica for six months and in Colombia for six months. I moved to Costa Rica 20 years ago and it has changed dramatically over the years, especially in costs. And you are very correct about people in Colombia being family oriented. By in large, the Columbia women are much more attractive and fun to be around, then others that I have met in Latin America.
I make very clear to anyone who asks that it is the chicks that are the main reason I choose Colombia, second the weather on the coast is pretty darn good too.
I'm so glad I live where I live here in Colombia. Much fewer problems and few gringos also. US expats in any country complain too much, so it is best to avoid them.
I didn't go for the women or the cost in the beginning. I went for family. And I went back for the climate, the nature, the friendship. The cost of living and the women were literal bonuses in my reasons for returning. I'm talking Medellín.
@@WheresWes and man, I've found a solid double handful of great restaurants in the city. From Italian to Mexican to seafood to Asian. I've found loads of great food
Agreed. I was just in Cartagena for a couple of weeks and I hated the s3x tourism in my Airbnb building. And we had to wear bracelets. It wasn’t like that when I was there in 2019
Cartagena is actually the worst tourist destination of Colombia... Go to Bogotá... LLanos Orientales... Pacific Ocean, snowy mountains. Why Cartagena? WTF. Even for Colombians Cartagena sucks people there is so abusive with touris everythiong is overpirced, they see you as a walking wallet not as a tourist. So many amazing places in Colombia and you guys go to the worst... wtf
Good video Wes, I agree with most of your points. Especially the business end of the story. Everything you try to do, you pretty much have to have your lawyer with in your pocket. Then trying to find a lawyer who you can trust, is a nightmare in itself.
Summed it up perfectly. Take away the women and the prices and you are not left with much, for most that is probably 80%. Maybe food quality, nature, and family values, but it is the combination of all the above that makes Colombia special.
New suscriber! I really enjoyed your video. I totally agree with your point of view of Colombia. My wife and I retired in the states and moved to Medellin , going on 4 years. We love it here. However, we have had to learn to swim with the SHARKS. We are both fluent in Spanish, becuase we were born in Panama, but moved to the states when we were both very young with our respective families. I really looking forward to reviewing your past videos as well as future videos. We would like to move to Panama but we are enjoying the cost of living here in Colombia. All the best to you and your family... God Bless!
I am trying to look at Colombia from a retiree perspective when I have a fixed source of income and not interested in women because I have a wife and because of my age. Cost of living and good affordable health care system is on top of the list of priorities for people like me. Europe is nice but more expensive and not easy to get a residency status in in general with few exceptions. Portugal is probably the most attractive country in the world as an overall package: cost of living, safety, health care, getting visa process, culture, food, people, etc. But it is considerably more expensive than Colombia or most Latin American and Asian countries popular among expats. I still keep Portugal as my number one destination for retirement but decided to take a closer look at Colombia before I make a move. Most American and Canadian expats-retirees living in Colombia I had a chance to talk to like it there. Especially ones who live in smaller cities like Manizales, Armenia, Pereira and Bucaramanga or nearby these towns. I guess most of what you said in this video is coming from a perspective of a man of your age and I believe you spotted it all accurately. I wonder what would you be saying from a perspective of an elderly person looking for an affordable retirement safe haven...
When you get to a certain age, you just want peace and unfortunately, Colombia as a whole is very chaotic. There is a chance for you to be safe if you can afford living in a high end apartment on a safe area like Santa Barbara in Bogotá. Have a simple life of staying at home, going to doctor's appointments, nearby restaurants and the grocery store. I was today at Almendro, a bakery in the upscale Chapinero Alto neighborhood and around me people were speaking English and French. But not speaking Spanish is not a choice, you need it to communicate with people, to take a cab, to pay the bill at a store, etc
@@Bogotaeverything Yes, I completely agree with you and perfectly understand what you said, especially when it comes to speaking local language. My family already lived in Buenos Aires in early 1990s and I know how useful and important is to speak Spanish in Spanish speaking country.
I'll be 68 in June and retired here 18 months ago. I'm very pleased. I don't want to attract masses of foreigners to my rincon muy tranquilo, but you seem like a good fit for my town so respond to this message and I'll post info for long enough for you to get it and then I'll remove it.
@@gennadykravenkov1505 Boyacá is very peaceful, people are probably the nicest in Colombia, more laid back, less hustle. I visited last year. Foreigners in Villa de Leyva are very common, but they were more likely to be tourists than people actually living there.
@@sudowpa2 Wait until she gets there and sees that people there have lower hygiene, self care and mental health standards and that a hot dog is an acceptable lunch
Thank you, Wes, for your content. I'm will be traveling to Medellín and Cartagena next month. I'm a Mexican American who was born and raised in Orange County. So my Spanish is pretty decent. Both parents are from Mexico. When I was younger, I used to go to LA a lot. Now that I am turning 29 next month, I hate it. Too dirty crime everywhere and don't get me started on the homeless population. I'm excited to go check out a new culture.
@@upsguy323 I live in Bogota and I do check online for reviews before I go to a restaurant. Filter English comments only and you will see what are tourists saying about the place. Do not eat street food unless the locals assure you that it is safe to eat. Do not eat corrientazo. While on a mall, just go to crepes and waffles.
@@BogotaeverythingWhy you say not to eat street food? I really like the street food there. I have a sensitive stomach but I haven’t had any issues so far?
I want to move to colombia eat in your restaurant visit your church and play with your beautiful 🐕 I think I will love Manizales despite the 🌧. Nice video Bro.
Practical tip: take a look at the declining value of the dollar relative to the Colombian peso. It has gone from a high last year of around 5100 to now is skirting 4100 per one dollar. This is an enormous decline, and the decline is speeding up. I can't recommend enough---if you are thinking of going get there sooner than later, and make sure to exchange dollars for pesos in a larger chunk rather than in small amounts. When I was there in December 2022 in Medellin I was getting around 4700 per one dollar. I keep going back to Colombia every few weeks starting in Feb 2023. When I left Bogota in May the rate had gone down to 4400 in exchange houses. Now, yesterday, when I checked, the official rate (much higher by at least 100-200 pesos), it was down to below 4200! Again, Colombia is getting MUCH more expensive for USA residents.
Hey Wes, We are a Turkish couple living in Kusadasi, near İzmir, who are going to visit Colombia for 6 months starting on November. Glad to come by your video. Thanks for a great video. Please come be our guest in Kusadasi if you can, would love to exchange some information and meet you.
I'm a Colombian living in Bogota and I can say that by watching a lot of videos by expats who decide to stay, there's another popular reason and it's the people, how kind they are. Also somebody mentioned how good it feels to ride bycicle here. Some people including myself don't wanna move out because we're family people, yes we fall in love with other countries but that doesn't mean we have to go live there. As a Colombian woman I didn't know that women traffic happens a lot, I've lived in the capital for my entire life and I think it's more common in Medellín.
You'll be good. if you got street smarts. Ive been to mexico city 2018 by myself and Medellin 2020. You are right, if you have game in the states youll be good in MDE.
You always have great advice Wes. Truth is though even in the US I am a realtor and real estate has gone crazy with both home prices and rents! And food, the same. Right now in New Jersey a dozen eggs are $7. My husband is from Itagui and we are hoping to live 6 months in Colombia and 6months in the states and only because of the cost of living on US dollars and because of his family being there. I love the Colombian people, their music and food. And there are scammers everywhere in the world now. It’s sad but you always have to be on your guard. Enjoy your trip!
Thanks for keeping it real brother! I'm in the Philippines now. I've been here for a year now. I went to Medellin in 2019 and was going to relocate there but chose the PI instead and now regret not going to Colombia. Not that I don't like the Philippines, though. One thing that's interesting is that the Expats here are just like the ones you described in Medellin. New subscriber!
God bless brother 🙏🏼 i’m from Montreal 🇨🇦 i’m christian would love to meet a Christian colombian girl , i speak Spanish . What would be your advice brother? What is the name of your church?
Relationships can work,my girlfriend is from Colombia and we have been together for twelve years and it has been good all the way, we live here in my homecountry Sweden.
I'm Haitian and for me Colombia reminds me a lot of Haiti. I agree with many points you've touched about expats. What I've notice you mentioned is that people who really has money, they wouldn't choose Colombia. But rather Europe and Asia. There are other beautiful develop countries or islands that you fail to mention. Like Africa and the Caribbeans.
Coming from Maldives. When I go to Brazil for business. I always carry 1 cheap dummy phone and I keep my iPhone in a hidden belt bag. I never use the phone in public. Always indoor. Sadly this is the reality of travelling to Latin America. Crime is rampant. I can't use my camera or anything in public.
Thanks for the video. I am looking to go out of the USA as it is falling apart and I am doing webinars and trading stocks so the time frame works. I am a yogi also but I also desire to get to know good people , I need high speed internet but also I am gay how is that there? I know you may not know well but want to still meet good people- not into the scene but like good people
Agree 💯 with you. We were in Medellin 3 weeks ago. Wanted to buy an apartment And everyone wanted to get ahead of us. Providing different information. I like to add if you want to buy a real estate
manizales is where 1 of the investment properties is I'm interested in....is it a nice city?[I'm Canadian & have stayed in Colombia over 8 months], how remote is ChinChina? thats where another property I'm interested in is...safe towns[manizales ranked safest town in one article I read
Hello Wes, I have been considering Manizales and surrounding areas for the past few weeks with plans to visit that area next week, still up in the air as I'm almost ready to just chuck it all and head out of the country. How safe are the areas around Manizales? I am just looking for a safe low cost of living area for me a woman in my 60s. To add, I was prices out of a beautiful area a few years ago in Sarasota, FL.
Thanks a lot for sharing your insights and experience in Colombia. I was actually contemplating the idea of living in Colombia as a digital nomad due to its affordable cost of living and proximity to Venezuela, where I have relatives. However, given my Venezuelan-American background, I ultimately realized it may not be the ideal choice. The challenges of not being fully trusted as a foreigner, a Venezuelan, and an American could prove to be quite distracting. Fortunately, there are other countries that offer a more neutral environment with a lower cost of living. Or perhaps a tad pricier but I wouldn't mind investing a bit more for a better (or neutral) treatment. Nevertheless, I truly believe that Colombia can be a fantastic destination for expats, depending on their individual goals. As a linguist, I can attest to the fact that Colombians speak proper Spanish with well-enunciated words at a moderate pace, making it an excellent country to learn the language. All in all, it all boils down to two fundamental questions: What do I truly desire? And how much am I willing to sacrifice?
We are retired at 55 and 60. We are cool weather lovers….hate the heat. We are in Nicaragua, my wife’s home country but even here in the mountains it is way too hot. Our income will be about $2000/mo until my wife turns 62 and starts getting her social security check. We speak Spanish. We just want a low cost place to live, that is fairly safe with cool weather and decent healthcare. In some of your videos, Manizales sounded wonderful….this video it sounds awful ???? We have thought about Turkey but have heard inflation is out of control.
@whereiswes I'm looking to buy a farm house on an acre of land with fruit trees near San Onofre, Colombia. Where's the best place to look online or how do I go about doing that? I do have family living in San Onofre btw.
Your in Istanbul? How do you like that neighborhood? I could see Istanbul area from my apartment. I have friends there. For me ..I would need an outside the city home. Manizales is 20 hours on 4 off. It's a great city.
Another great video speaking much truth, but that's only in my humble opinion. Not sure I agree with everything but for sure 98. 6% of what you say is spot on, including the part about food! Funny story about crime in Medellin, I lived in Medellin in 2021 and most of 2022. And I definitely agree you have to keep your head on a swivel even as the Piasas do here in the city. I've been fortunate I've never been robbed here in Medellin. Ironically my Paisa wife (this would be the part where I don't agree, where you say pretty much all Medellin women are looking to milk gringos) but I digress... As I was saying my Paisa wife and I just returned from Mexico after spending six months there. And in one of the safest cities, Guanajuato, I was pickpocketed by a very slick street criminal...go figure. But I definitely agree it's just plain nuts to say Colombia is safer than the States or Canada or Mexico, there is no comparison to any of the above. Suerte!
You can do the retirement visa yourself if you can read Spanish and apply for it because it's online. The hardest part will be to get a notary of your funds. It can be difficult now that the visa laws have changed and if you are a veteran from thr military. They now require a mental health evaluation so you don't have PTSD. Luckily I got my visa before the new laws applied but i am not going to renew my retirement visa once it expires. I plan to go back to the states with my wife so we can live there and get her naturalized.
I live in Colombia. It's dope. Have DR/PR fam and lived in DR too. I speak Spanish though. I never tried to link with Ex-pats. I made friends by going outside, going to parks, etc......... Love the sports/outdoor activity. I love the adventures available in Colombia. I love the Colombia's food. The 'bureaucracy' .... 100% I dont feel I'm in 'danger' in Colombia BUT I do know........ there's dangers similiar to America here in cities -- but not as bad as the US. Not all the gangs and random violence. In some of the 'rural' areas by coastlines .. you have to research each to know which these are..... Shit.. be careful.. the Guerilla Armies/Cartels are savage (100% by the definition). Dominican Republic = far safer than Colombia. Im US born , urban culture, so I know how to move in pretty much any situation and never really uncomfortable. And I know most people are NOT like that. Street smart/savvy. IN DR the people may want to hustle you but they dont even think about killing a normal thing. Colombia has some serious savagery to it in some corners and there's drugs in South America that have destroyed some people's mind. The alcohol is an issue in all Latin AMerica. I think it causes MANY ISSUES across Latin America from violence to abuse. That's a concentrated issues in LA. I def agree, i like oither places where the people have fun without this as a common fabric to their events/gatherings.... I do think people of color can fit in better here and will be less of a target, like anywhere outside of Central/West Europe. When i say POC, i mean non-anglo saxon ... people who come from culture that has native/african rootage. I agree with the culture incubating distrust here. City dwellersare VERY PESSAMISTIC in Colombia and if they aren't 'distrusting you' at first, you may want to just 'keep an eye' on why not lol But I find people from outside the city or who are 1st generation to the city can be more laid back. As for DATING: - If you can't speak Spanish you're 99.9% likely foolish for even trying to form a relationship in a Spanish-speaking country. EVEN IF they speak English, you should be aware of whats going on as an adult trying to function. - If you're 'lame' and not going outside to understand the day to day life, it will be hard. MUCH BETTER to make friends, share jokes, share thoughts so you can understand the norms of a place - Dont 'pity' a woman/man in a foreign place......... b/c everybody has the same potential in this life. Maintain standards and morals. Look for a diamond shining because you don't know what a raw diamond looks like nor what to do with it unless you're a psychologist or something - Does the person you're dating have a stable life? If not.......... good luck *tisk* - Dont get caught up in hanging around with easy women/men or you will corrupt yourself into thinking thats' normal and fall victim to your own low standards And stop saying "Passport Bros" because there's A LOT OF WOMEN doing the same thing as the men in 2023. "Passport Sis" I guess is a term we need to begin using as well. Stupidity is in all groups.
I think you're spot on when you say that the primary appeal of Colombia is the women. It's not like Colombia offers nothing else, but the primary demographic that visits COL and spends money there is going for the women. If you removed that from the equation, it's likely COL wouldn't have as many visitors.
I guess everyone who travels or lives in Colombia is a lesbian, then. I do not know about Medellin but in Bogota a lot of the foreigners are women. Also, the country has a ton of places to visit and is not the flat and boring everywhere looks the same kind of country.
Exactly, don't come. No more gringos here, go gentrify somewhere else. You don't pay taxes, or really contribute in any way. Go to the Philippines, Thailand or something. We don't like passports bros or gringo mentality here. Go somewhere else, there are so many other countries you can go to, here it is super dangerous and boring,
Hey wes, I really disagree on food diversity lacking. I just created a video about a dish from my region in colombia and I plan to make a video on that subject of variation in food in the future. Hate to be that guy but paisas and rolos are known to be terrible cooks in colombia and the number one female chef in rhe world 2022 is Colombian Tastes in food is subjective and while there are tons of food cultures more varied than colombia, as a Colombian living in the USA but hands down it is my favorite. No one in my family can imagine living without it , even due to cultural bias. It is no slouch in the kitchen however and it can compete with some other cultures. That is a long topic for another video of mines. On the concept of paisa culture..i feel you are too harsh on Medellin, and Manizales is also paisa culture. The issue that I see is that foreigners only go for the paisas with the skimpy outfits, plastic image, and fast life chasers. I know gringos in the USA with decades long marriages to paisas. Fyi I'm not a paisa I'm valle caucano.
How you said is easy to get a visa. I have been trying to get a visa for my husband, unsuccessful. Can you help me with contacts for visa. I would like information On real estate to buy an apartment in Retiro
I've been in Colombia for 17 years and I can tell you living in a small town is far safer than living in the big cities. Even cities as small as Rionegro are becoming pretty dangerous. But, once you've lived in a small town for a few years you become part of the community and there is more mutual trust. It is, however, very troubling how the country is becoming more and more socialist and getting way too close to China and Venezuela.
Disagree about the food..i live in the usa and still prefer colombian...my sifu is cantonese crom guanzhou with family in toisan ,guangxi province and he says he has never seen sucha good cook in as my mom.
I want to go because I love reagatton music and I love Spanish and want to learn the language well and it’s a way to start new with different people while still being cheap I actually like Spanish culture and want to explore the life there. I care less about a girlfriend…. I didn’t even know anything about y people go there to meet woman that’s just creepy and they need to work on there social skills apparently
this is exactly what i tell people about mexico. alot of gringos say mexicans are very friendly. i say that's because u are dealing with people in the service industry - restaurants, waiters, hotels, tourist zones, people tryn to sell something - but go elsewhere and u will see gringos are not welcome. expect the stupid card to be played every time. you will always be asked, where are u from? they will take your dollars at a steep discount. if u are serious about living in mexico, you need connections in top firms - like everywhere else in the world. tourist zones is not mexico. goodluck.
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What about a link to the two page document on playing gringos
colombia is one of the best countries in the world where i ever was. the people are pure and amazing and respectfully and happy ❤ love for my people in colombia i never wil forgot how the people treat me i always go back
Colombian people are not 'pure'. Colombian men invite girls for a trip because they want to fuck them. How is that any purer than anywhere else?
They have many nice habits, but many Colombians will not think twice about earning $$$ on you, even if it hurts. All good. There's for sure more good Colombians than the bad ones - I trust in that. But seriously - no need to romanticize.
I feel the same way. Have been visiting since 2009.
Colombian society is very family- oriented. Living in Colombia as a gringo without the help and support of a family is going to be a challenge. Love the videos Wes 👍
Cheers bro
This is the realest video on Colombia from a UA-camr. Been tired of hearing "Colombia is safe if you know how to move". Quality of Life And peace of mind involves feeling safe. That's why I personally would only visit.
agreed bro
I agree
Big facts
Yeah, i would never live there. Only holidays and staying at hotels and hostels. Never airbnb
Exactly, don't come. No more gringos here, go gentrify somewhere else. You don't pay taxes, or really contribute in any way. Go to Phillipines or something.
Wes I've been going ot Colombia 3-5 times a yr since 2016 for as long as a month at a time & yes I speak Spanish. I agree with most of your points bc of the people in Colombia. Some of my best friends are Colombian. You are missing out on a BIG part bc you are not a cyclist. Colombian is a cycling paradise!! Hands down! How do you think I know?
Stunning scenery, leg breaking climbs, inexpensive home cooked food everywhere & on...
But I'm Canadian & no matter how much I tell people about Colombia - Canadians don't believe it, but that's typical Canadian culture, ppl are homogoneous & close minded.
AmoColombia!
The two top reasons he mentioned (cost/women) are very realistic but regardless, I wouldn't move to a completely foreign place if it doesn't support my hobbies - cycling. I chose mx over co for my digital nomad location for personal reasons, but bc co is a cycling macca in Latin Am, I have always consider living or retire there one day.. The famous Letras longest climb in the world, the weather that offers 365/day, the route stops, the cycling communities, all that matters more than just cost/women
Hola , well this Canadian believes it because I live in Antioquia! ;) ...lol.. And my "paisa" wife is an extreme hiker so no I don't do bicycling but I definitely see tons of cyclists here outside of the city. I'll just stick to treking for now...buena suerte!!...Vancouver Island/Medellin Tom
The areas of Bucaramanga are perfect for cycling with different terrain
OMG, I'm a USA resident, travel all over the world, and love cycling...BUT good luck! Colombia is DANGEROUS for cyclists! I have been spending a ton of time in Bogota, Colombia---cyclists are all over the place, but they are getting HIT all over the place by cars who hate them. THere are few if any barriers to cars in the cities, and if you are on a rural road, again, these roads are narrow. If you are a cyclist the best countries to stay in are those in first world development, because they have the cash to fund dividers between cyclists and cars. Please share with us exactly where you are finding success as a cyclist in Colombia, that is a SAFE place!
@@pf4773 Rio Negro...
Here's a clue - when interacting.with cars cyclists always need tonride defensively & competently bc in the event of a collision obviously the cyclist is worse off
But primarily in Colombia cycling is much more prevalent & respected as a sport - not in Canada
One more FACT: Colombia is NOT a third world country - modern infrastructures ok...
Stay home if it scares you
I love these people!
Being safe can be a little subjective, my experience as a person born and raised in a 3rd world country and then visiting other developed nations and then moving to Canada and become a Canadian is that I have already seen so may scams ,robberies and crimes in my country of origin living as a child and young adult that give me exposure knowledge and tools to counter these thing better then an average American or Canadian or European etc who was born in these countries and have never experienced or seen extreme poverty and crimes like that so I feel more safe there because compared to an average gringo I am better prepared for these situation
If you take high paying jobs and freedom away from USA its a shit hole. If you take away low cost of living and women from Colombia its a shit hole. Point is you can always look at things negatively. Its all about perspective.
True it's all about what negatives you can balance
Can't wait to visit Colombia
Your comments on the "hustle culture" and advantage-taking are spot on. This is very true, but people don't like to say it outright.
Thank you, for sharing. Columbia some what sounds like Thailand, but a bit more unsafe. I would like to visit Columbia.
I think im the minority, the only reason I would move to Colombia is to live in the rural areas (Not near Medellin & Bogota & areas where there's rebel fighters) in not so much known areas. But this can be applied to other Latam Countries.
What areas are there rebel fighters?
@@johnclark8637 Depends, You got the ELN, Dissidents of the FARC, Paramililitary like Clan del golfo. Could be be in the pacific side, others by the Venezuelan Border other in the South. Other smaller groups (Supporting Cartels) here and there that be displacing indigenous people.
Jaja
@@Stezworldwtf? I haven't heard of those any more and guess what, I live in Colombia
Good job. I can't disagree with anything you say except about Medellin. I've lived here full time for almost 8 years. I walk the streets every day and enjoy life here a great deal; which means that I've adapted to and overcome all the true but negative aspects you point out. If I ever get mugged I'll just give it up. I only carry enough money (no credit card) on me to get through the day and my phone is nice but not expensive to replace. But like I say, so far nothing like that has happened.
Living in Miami for 33 years helped me a lot. I am still going through a little culture shock but basically when I moved here I hit the ground running with good Spanish skills & the right rhythm. I may have gotten taken on a few little scama but my happiness does not depend on winning every battle. Also, I'm retired so I don't have the stress of hustling around the big city and it takes a lot more than before to upset me. Big picture I'm way ahead.
Again, what you have to say in this video is really accurate and well put. Kudos.
This is one of your greatest videos, and you speak truth! I have heard these things from the Colombian 's that I talk to and everyone of them wants to leave
Thanks for being upfront, honest and unbiased… much respect.
Cheers bro
As a Colombian myself living in Cali i appreciate your statement 😊
For those of you not familiar with Colombia, Paisa is the culture of the region of Antioquia where medellin is located. I’m married to a Costeña (a girl from the coast). I had lots of fun dating in colombia, but it’s true, most of the girls I dated were from other regions.
A great video, thanks agree with everything you said! I haven't been to the Philippines in twenty years but look forward to visiting soon. I wish more YTers would just tell it like it is but few don't, thanks.
I'm in Medellin and I've been here a month. I'm pretty sure I will get the nomad visa and stay until that's up but not here. Even though I'm enjoying myself I feel what you're saying about the safety issues and the toxic expats. I don't necessarily feel like I'm in imminent danger all day everyday but there's certainly a sense that danger is never too far away. I tried meeting and hanging out with some expats and really felt like I was in MORE danger with them because they weren't moving very smart - which is the bare minimum for safety in any area of the world. As for the women... this is not a place where the thirsty will survive, literally. You better be able to think with the right head when dealing with women out here. A month isn't that long but based on my experience so far, I have zero faith I'll find a wife in Medellin 😆
Thanks for another solid video man 👊
Cheers bro
@@WheresWes damn
Go to Barranquilla
U can't find a wife in Colombia. Man i can find a few girlfriends over there and 2 wives. Its alote cheaper and better women then Usa. In usa there alote of stuck up attitude girls abd some are nuts. Some people here nuts too. I guess they get deppresed or have issues. I rather travel. U just need skills and Spanish and have more faith. Blessing s
So agree with you about how certain expats don't know how to move. They are that friend that you always had to take up for as a teenager, because they were mouthing off to the wrong folks and can't fight. In Colombia, that can get you killed.
Thanks for your honest opinions of how things are going in Columbia. It is such a beautiful country, what a shame that, at least in the larger cities, corruption is allowed to run rampant and that the quality of living for locals gets degraded.
Excellent video
Great honest informations
Very helpful
Thanks Wes
Fantastic vlog man thanks for being straight forward and to the point ☝️
Nice to hear your realistic and pragmatic views. I think when you have children that your concerns about safety in Colombia will be even stronger.
Honestly that's the reason why I see everything so different now
@@WheresWes Time to start thinking about relocating.
Don’t go back to USA my friend… then we have nothing to look forward to anymore 😀
Thank you for a very real and honest video on Colombia. Many UA-camrs I see talking about Colombia, It’s all oh it’s graded safe. Yeah you have to worry a little but, as long as you know what you’re doing it’s OK.
I enjoyed your video and agree with almost everything that you had to say. I met a lady in Barranquilla and we are going to be married soon and living here in Costa Rica for six months and in Colombia for six months. I moved to Costa Rica 20 years ago and it has changed dramatically over the years, especially in costs. And you are very correct about people in Colombia being family oriented. By in large, the Columbia women are much more attractive and fun to be around, then others that I have met in Latin America.
Uber is the cost that KEEPS me in Colombia, it's so low. It is like a permanent low-paid chauffeur service.
Great info man. Very on point. Taking your survey now.
I make very clear to anyone who asks that it is the chicks that are the main reason I choose Colombia, second the weather on the coast is pretty darn good too.
yeah i forgot to talk about the weather but i agree
I'm so glad I live where I live here in Colombia. Much fewer problems and few gringos also. US expats in any country complain too much, so it is best to avoid them.
what is a gringo?
@@greenairmaxbackpackAmericans
@@NevaEye oh. i’m a gringo then. is that like a bad thing. i want to move to colombia bc even as a 13 year old life sucks here
What area ?
@@greenairmaxbackpack Well... it depends... Some gringos are ignorants and stupid and some other very intelligent and educated.
this dude is straight up. I like it. thanks for saving me so much time.
Cheers bro
I didn't go for the women or the cost in the beginning. I went for family. And I went back for the climate, the nature, the friendship. The cost of living and the women were literal bonuses in my reasons for returning. I'm talking Medellín.
I believe it. You're in the minority
@@WheresWes and man, I've found a solid double handful of great restaurants in the city. From Italian to Mexican to seafood to Asian. I've found loads of great food
@Jon Snow I agree but international asian food is still lacking.
Thanks for the great information. 👍
Agreed. I was just in Cartagena for a couple of weeks and I hated the s3x tourism in my Airbnb building. And we had to wear bracelets. It wasn’t like that when I was there in 2019
Cartagena is actually the worst tourist destination of Colombia... Go to Bogotá... LLanos Orientales... Pacific Ocean, snowy mountains. Why Cartagena? WTF. Even for Colombians Cartagena sucks people there is so abusive with touris everythiong is overpirced, they see you as a walking wallet not as a tourist. So many amazing places in Colombia and you guys go to the worst... wtf
I see, I was going to say, some Gringos defend colombia more than Colombians lol especially on the Facebook page.
bruh this a fact lol
a lot of colombians tend to be negative on colombia in general. Source Im colombian
They trying to make money
I am a Colombian living in Canada and I approve this statement
Good video Wes, I agree with most of your points. Especially the business end of the story. Everything you try to do, you pretty much have to have your lawyer with in your pocket. Then trying to find a lawyer who you can trust, is a nightmare in itself.
Summed it up perfectly. Take away the women and the prices and you are not left with much, for most that is probably 80%. Maybe food quality, nature, and family values, but it is the combination of all the above that makes Colombia special.
New suscriber! I really enjoyed your video. I totally agree with your point of view of Colombia. My wife and I retired in the states and moved to Medellin , going on 4 years. We love it here. However, we have had to learn to swim with the SHARKS. We are both fluent in Spanish, becuase we were born in Panama, but moved to the states when we were both very young with our respective families. I really looking forward to reviewing your past videos as well as future videos. We would like to move to Panama but we are enjoying the cost of living here in Colombia. All the best to you and your family... God Bless!
I am trying to look at Colombia from a retiree perspective when I have a fixed source of income and not interested in women because I have a wife and because of my age. Cost of living and good affordable health care system is on top of the list of priorities for people like me. Europe is nice but more expensive and not easy to get a residency status in in general with few exceptions. Portugal is probably the most attractive country in the world as an overall package: cost of living, safety, health care, getting visa process, culture, food, people, etc. But it is considerably more expensive than Colombia or most Latin American and Asian countries popular among expats. I still keep Portugal as my number one destination for retirement but decided to take a closer look at Colombia before I make a move. Most American and Canadian expats-retirees living in Colombia I had a chance to talk to like it there. Especially ones who live in smaller cities like Manizales, Armenia, Pereira and Bucaramanga or nearby these towns. I guess most of what you said in this video is coming from a perspective of a man of your age and I believe you spotted it all accurately. I wonder what would you be saying from a perspective of an elderly person looking for an affordable retirement safe haven...
When you get to a certain age, you just want peace and unfortunately, Colombia as a whole is very chaotic. There is a chance for you to be safe if you can afford living in a high end apartment on a safe area like Santa Barbara in Bogotá. Have a simple life of staying at home, going to doctor's appointments, nearby restaurants and the grocery store. I was today at Almendro, a bakery in the upscale Chapinero Alto neighborhood and around me people were speaking English and French. But not speaking Spanish is not a choice, you need it to communicate with people, to take a cab, to pay the bill at a store, etc
@@Bogotaeverything Yes, I completely agree with you and perfectly understand what you said, especially when it comes to speaking local language. My family already lived in Buenos Aires in early 1990s and I know how useful and important is to speak Spanish in Spanish speaking country.
I'll be 68 in June and retired here 18 months ago. I'm very pleased. I don't want to attract masses of foreigners to my rincon muy tranquilo, but you seem like a good fit for my town so respond to this message and I'll post info for long enough for you to get it and then I'll remove it.
@@casamurphy Awesome! Would love to hear more about that please.
@@gennadykravenkov1505 Boyacá is very peaceful, people are probably the nicest in Colombia, more laid back, less hustle. I visited last year. Foreigners in Villa de Leyva are very common, but they were more likely to be tourists than people actually living there.
I just came back from Colombia after 2 years there, I would never go back. May try Argentina next time.
I am getting a immigrant visa for my wife and after she gets visa in hand. We are getting the hell out of dodge.
@@sudowpa2 Smart Decision.
@@sudowpa2 Wait until she gets there and sees that people there have lower hygiene, self care and mental health standards and that a hot dog is an acceptable lunch
Argentina is beautiful and safer than Colombia, but argentinians are proud people who will NOT be kissing your vapid gringo arse. Good luck there.
Why did you stay for two years if you never want to go back? What bad happened?
Thank you, Wes, for your content. I'm will be traveling to Medellín and Cartagena next month. I'm a Mexican American who was born and raised in Orange County. So my Spanish is pretty decent. Both parents are from Mexico. When I was younger, I used to go to LA a lot. Now that I am turning 29 next month, I hate it. Too dirty crime everywhere and don't get me started on the homeless population. I'm excited to go check out a new culture.
you're going to be disappointed by the food also ask for aijc to spicy things up
@@upsguy323 I live in Bogota and I do check online for reviews before I go to a restaurant. Filter English comments only and you will see what are tourists saying about the place. Do not eat street food unless the locals assure you that it is safe to eat. Do not eat corrientazo. While on a mall, just go to crepes and waffles.
@@BogotaeverythingWhy you say not to eat street food? I really like the street food there. I have a sensitive stomach but I haven’t had any issues so far?
Did you love it???!!
@@ayo_k32 Medellín was amazing. The food was okay. The sea food was great. I plan on going back again this year
I want to move to colombia eat in your restaurant visit your church and play with your beautiful 🐕
I think I will love Manizales despite the 🌧. Nice video Bro.
Thanks! You are realistic and accurate!
Columbia might be a little nicer than Mars, but tickets are still available. Have you considered another planet?
I don't think the wife would like the cold hahahaha
Practical tip: take a look at the declining value of the dollar relative to the Colombian peso. It has gone from a high last year of around 5100 to now is skirting 4100 per one dollar. This is an enormous decline, and the decline is speeding up. I can't recommend enough---if you are thinking of going get there sooner than later, and make sure to exchange dollars for pesos in a larger chunk rather than in small amounts. When I was there in December 2022 in Medellin I was getting around 4700 per one dollar. I keep going back to Colombia every few weeks starting in Feb 2023. When I left Bogota in May the rate had gone down to 4400 in exchange houses. Now, yesterday, when I checked, the official rate (much higher by at least 100-200 pesos), it was down to below 4200! Again, Colombia is getting MUCH more expensive for USA residents.
Hey Wes,
We are a Turkish couple living in Kusadasi, near İzmir, who are going to visit Colombia for 6 months starting on November. Glad to come by your video. Thanks for a great video.
Please come be our guest in Kusadasi if you can, would love to exchange some information and meet you.
I'm a Colombian living in Bogota and I can say that by watching a lot of videos by expats who decide to stay, there's another popular reason and it's the people, how kind they are. Also somebody mentioned how good it feels to ride bycicle here. Some people including myself don't wanna move out because we're family people, yes we fall in love with other countries but that doesn't mean we have to go live there. As a Colombian woman I didn't know that women traffic happens a lot, I've lived in the capital for my entire life and I think it's more common in Medellín.
The irony that you think this is a foreign playbook , its the domestic playbook but with more steps playpackages
Lolol
Hey brother I invested in a piece of land in Puerto Colombia…what advice you give me ?
Un restaurante o barbería es buena opción
You'll be good. if you got street smarts. Ive been to mexico city 2018 by myself and Medellin 2020. You are right, if you have game in the states youll be good in MDE.
💯
You always have great advice Wes. Truth is though even in the US I am a realtor and real estate has gone crazy with both home prices and rents! And food, the same. Right now in New Jersey a dozen eggs are $7.
My husband is from Itagui and we are hoping to live 6 months in Colombia and 6months in the states and only because of the cost of living on US dollars and because of his family being there. I love the Colombian people, their music and food. And there are scammers everywhere in the world now. It’s sad but you always have to be on your guard.
Enjoy your trip!
Thanks for keeping it real brother! I'm in the Philippines now. I've been here for a year now. I went to Medellin in 2019 and was going to relocate there but chose the PI instead and now regret not going to Colombia. Not that I don't like the Philippines, though. One thing that's interesting is that the Expats here are just like the ones you described in Medellin. New subscriber!
I believe it! I'm going to the Philippines soon too
This dude kept it 100…. No Columbia for me.
There is no country whose name is spelled Columbia. The country in South America is spelled Colombia 🇨🇴
7:50 must of Colombia, except Manizales from what I know it's a medium in risk travel but one of the safest in Colombia
Great video with many factual points. I visit Medellin every month as my non-paisa girlfriend lives there lol
God bless brother 🙏🏼 i’m from Montreal 🇨🇦 i’m christian would love to meet a Christian colombian girl , i speak Spanish . What would be your advice brother? What is the name of your church?
Relationships can work,my girlfriend is from Colombia and we have been together for twelve years and it has been good all the way, we live here in my homecountry Sweden.
Urguay is safe and the most peaceful country in America.
Petro will prove you wrong Wes
That's the reason I'm moving to Colombia.
we will see
In Latin America, if a deal is fair to you and fair to me, I lose.
I'm Haitian and for me Colombia reminds me a lot of Haiti. I agree with many points you've touched about expats. What I've notice you mentioned is that people who really has money, they wouldn't choose Colombia. But rather Europe and Asia. There are other beautiful develop countries or islands that you fail to mention. Like Africa and the Caribbeans.
Coming from Maldives. When I go to Brazil for business. I always carry 1 cheap dummy phone and I keep my iPhone in a hidden belt bag. I never use the phone in public. Always indoor.
Sadly this is the reality of travelling to Latin America. Crime is rampant.
I can't use my camera or anything in public.
This is accurate.
An you post a link to the how to play a gringo . I want to read it so I can learn thire playbook
Thanks for the video. I am looking to go out of the USA as it is falling apart and I am doing webinars and trading stocks so the time frame works. I am a yogi also but I also desire to get to know good people , I need high speed internet but also I am gay how is that there? I know you may not know well but want to still meet good people- not into the scene but like good people
thank you . very interesting
Cheers
Agree 💯 with you. We were in Medellin 3 weeks ago. Wanted to buy an apartment
And everyone wanted to get ahead of us.
Providing different information.
I like to add if you want to buy a real estate
Thanks for the comment!
Shoot me an email if you're looking to buy, I can set you up with a realtor. Usingthisforspam283@gmail.com
You have referred to "Expat pages" and facebook groups. Can you share some links to these places you are referencing? Thanks.
Facebook groups called Medellin Expats and Expats in Medellín
facebook.com/groups/themedellinexpats
The expats are jacking up the cost of everything in Colombia and I would hate the expats if I am one of the locals. lol
manizales is where 1 of the investment properties is I'm interested in....is it a nice city?[I'm Canadian & have stayed in Colombia over 8 months], how remote is ChinChina? thats where another property I'm interested in is...safe towns[manizales ranked safest town in one article I read
Hello Wes, I have been considering Manizales and surrounding areas for the past few weeks with plans to visit that area next week, still up in the air as I'm almost ready to just chuck it all and head out of the country. How safe are the areas around Manizales? I am just looking for a safe low cost of living area for me a woman in my 60s. To add, I was prices out of a beautiful area a few years ago in Sarasota, FL.
Bastante seguro manizales y sus alrededores
Igual que bucaramanga
Thanks a lot for sharing your insights and experience in Colombia. I was actually contemplating the idea of living in Colombia as a digital nomad due to its affordable cost of living and proximity to Venezuela, where I have relatives. However, given my Venezuelan-American background, I ultimately realized it may not be the ideal choice. The challenges of not being fully trusted as a foreigner, a Venezuelan, and an American could prove to be quite distracting.
Fortunately, there are other countries that offer a more neutral environment with a lower cost of living. Or perhaps a tad pricier but I wouldn't mind investing a bit more for a better (or neutral) treatment.
Nevertheless, I truly believe that Colombia can be a fantastic destination for expats, depending on their individual goals. As a linguist, I can attest to the fact that Colombians speak proper Spanish with well-enunciated words at a moderate pace, making it an excellent country to learn the language.
All in all, it all boils down to two fundamental questions: What do I truly desire? And how much am I willing to sacrifice?
We are retired at 55 and 60. We are cool weather lovers….hate the heat. We are in Nicaragua, my wife’s home country but even here in the mountains it is way too hot. Our income will be about $2000/mo until my wife turns 62 and starts getting her social security check. We speak Spanish. We just want a low cost place to live, that is fairly safe with cool weather and decent healthcare.
In some of your videos, Manizales sounded wonderful….this video it sounds awful ????
We have thought about Turkey but have heard inflation is out of control.
Excellent. Looking at Philippines too.
I’m moving to Columbia soon
@whereiswes I'm looking to buy a farm house on an acre of land with fruit trees near San Onofre, Colombia. Where's the best place to look online or how do I go about doing that? I do have family living in San Onofre btw.
Your in Istanbul? How do you like that neighborhood? I could see Istanbul area from my apartment. I have friends there. For me ..I would need an outside the city home. Manizales is 20 hours on 4 off. It's a great city.
Istanbul, Turkey lol
Haha. No Manizales
Seen more viable relationships in Cali, Bogota and Cartagena. Rarely hear anything good coming out of Medellin
I was born in Colombia.
Is there a chance I have dual citizenship??
Sounds realistic to me.
Another great video speaking much truth, but that's only in my humble opinion. Not sure I agree with everything but for sure 98. 6% of what you say is spot on, including the part about food! Funny story about crime in Medellin, I lived in Medellin in 2021 and most of 2022. And I definitely agree you have to keep your head on a swivel even as the Piasas do here in the city. I've been fortunate I've never been robbed here in Medellin. Ironically my Paisa wife (this would be the part where I don't agree, where you say pretty much all Medellin women are looking to milk gringos) but I digress... As I was saying my Paisa wife and I just returned from Mexico after spending six months there. And in one of the safest cities, Guanajuato, I was pickpocketed by a very slick street criminal...go figure. But I definitely agree it's just plain nuts to say Colombia is safer than the States or Canada or Mexico, there is no comparison to any of the above. Suerte!
What about starting a church in Columbia?
Hello Wes, great contents. I would like to apply for retirement visa! Is there an agency in Medellin that you would recommend for this process?
You can do the retirement visa yourself if you can read Spanish and apply for it because it's online. The hardest part will be to get a notary of your funds. It can be difficult now that the visa laws have changed and if you are a veteran from thr military. They now require a mental health evaluation so you don't have PTSD. Luckily I got my visa before the new laws applied but i am not going to renew my retirement visa once it expires. I plan to go back to the states with my wife so we can live there and get her naturalized.
I live in Colombia. It's dope. Have DR/PR fam and lived in DR too.
I speak Spanish though.
I never tried to link with Ex-pats. I made friends by going outside, going to parks, etc......... Love the sports/outdoor activity.
I love the adventures available in Colombia.
I love the Colombia's food.
The 'bureaucracy' .... 100%
I dont feel I'm in 'danger' in Colombia BUT I do know........ there's dangers similiar to America here in cities -- but not as bad as the US. Not all the gangs and random violence. In some of the 'rural' areas by coastlines .. you have to research each to know which these are..... Shit.. be careful.. the Guerilla Armies/Cartels are savage (100% by the definition).
Dominican Republic = far safer than Colombia. Im US born , urban culture, so I know how to move in pretty much any situation and never really uncomfortable. And I know most people are NOT like that. Street smart/savvy. IN DR the people may want to hustle you but they dont even think about killing a normal thing. Colombia has some serious savagery to it in some corners and there's drugs in South America that have destroyed some people's mind.
The alcohol is an issue in all Latin AMerica. I think it causes MANY ISSUES across Latin America from violence to abuse. That's a concentrated issues in LA. I def agree, i like oither places where the people have fun without this as a common fabric to their events/gatherings....
I do think people of color can fit in better here and will be less of a target, like anywhere outside of Central/West Europe. When i say POC, i mean non-anglo saxon ... people who come from culture that has native/african rootage.
I agree with the culture incubating distrust here. City dwellersare VERY PESSAMISTIC in Colombia and if they aren't 'distrusting you' at first, you may want to just 'keep an eye' on why not lol But I find people from outside the city or who are 1st generation to the city can be more laid back.
As for DATING:
- If you can't speak Spanish you're 99.9% likely foolish for even trying to form a relationship in a Spanish-speaking country. EVEN IF they speak English, you should be aware of whats going on as an adult trying to function.
- If you're 'lame' and not going outside to understand the day to day life, it will be hard. MUCH BETTER to make friends, share jokes, share thoughts so you can understand the norms of a place
- Dont 'pity' a woman/man in a foreign place......... b/c everybody has the same potential in this life. Maintain standards and morals. Look for a diamond shining because you don't know what a raw diamond looks like nor what to do with it unless you're a psychologist or something
- Does the person you're dating have a stable life? If not.......... good luck *tisk*
- Dont get caught up in hanging around with easy women/men or you will corrupt yourself into thinking thats' normal and fall victim to your own low standards
And stop saying "Passport Bros" because there's A LOT OF WOMEN doing the same thing as the men in 2023. "Passport Sis" I guess is a term we need to begin using as well. Stupidity is in all groups.
Bro im headed to cali colombia first trip there i will have a place in San Antonio do you know a guy who can take me around thats trustworthy..
I think you're spot on when you say that the primary appeal of Colombia is the women. It's not like Colombia offers nothing else, but the primary demographic that visits COL and spends money there is going for the women. If you removed that from the equation, it's likely COL wouldn't have as many visitors.
I guess everyone who travels or lives in Colombia is a lesbian, then. I do not know about Medellin but in Bogota a lot of the foreigners are women. Also, the country has a ton of places to visit and is not the flat and boring everywhere looks the same kind of country.
@@Bogotaeverything Thank you Ana! I was just thinking how very male centric this video (and commentators) is!
Exactly, don't come. No more gringos here, go gentrify somewhere else. You don't pay taxes, or really contribute in any way. Go to the Philippines, Thailand or something. We don't like passports bros or gringo mentality here. Go somewhere else, there are so many other countries you can go to, here it is super dangerous and boring,
is there a reliable online shopping platform for Colombia or a way to get stuff from amazon? Thanks
Hey wes, I really disagree on food diversity lacking. I just created a video about a dish from my region in colombia and I plan to make a video on that subject of variation in food in the future.
Hate to be that guy but paisas and rolos are known to be terrible cooks in colombia and the number one female chef in rhe world 2022 is Colombian
Tastes in food is subjective and while there are tons of food cultures more varied than colombia, as a Colombian living in the USA but hands down it is my favorite. No one in my family can imagine living without it , even due to cultural bias.
It is no slouch in the kitchen however and it can compete with some other cultures. That is a long topic for another video of mines.
On the concept of paisa culture..i feel you are too harsh on Medellin, and Manizales is also paisa culture.
The issue that I see is that foreigners only go for the paisas with the skimpy outfits, plastic image, and fast life chasers. I know gringos in the USA with decades long marriages to paisas.
Fyi I'm not a paisa I'm valle caucano.
Colombians are very traditional people
How you said is easy to get a visa. I have been trying to get a visa for my husband, unsuccessful. Can you help me with contacts for visa. I would like information
On real estate to buy an apartment in Retiro
Email me at usingthisforspam283@gmail.com
What do you hear about Paraguay? 🇵🇾
No clue but I'll probably go in the future
What about cities such as Pereira?
A mini medellin. Much smaller and cheaper, girls same as medellin. Not a huge fan personally but i know people who like it
So basically Colombia is exactly the same as every other place just, Colombian.
Hey Wes are you in Europe or Colombia ?😊
in Istanbul turkey at the moment
@@WheresWes why did you move away from Colombia?
Honeymoon
@@WheresWes honeymoon in Europe ?
Just a heads up, your email handle might get your responses sent to the spam folder. Email providers filter addresses that look suspect.
thanks for the heads up
I've been in Colombia for 17 years and I can tell you living in a small town is far safer than living in the big cities. Even cities as small as Rionegro are becoming pretty dangerous. But, once you've lived in a small town for a few years you become part of the community and there is more mutual trust. It is, however, very troubling how the country is becoming more and more socialist and getting way too close to China and Venezuela.
100%
You need to change the name of your youtube channel to "Holier than Thou"
Doesnt sound as good tbh
😂😂😂
Disagree about the food..i live in the usa and still prefer colombian...my sifu is cantonese crom guanzhou with family in toisan ,guangxi province and he says he has never seen sucha good cook in as my mom.
That playbook is trash
I want to go because I love reagatton music and I love Spanish and want to learn the language well and it’s a way to start new with different people while still being cheap I actually like Spanish culture and want to explore the life there. I care less about a girlfriend…. I didn’t even know anything about y people go there to meet woman that’s just creepy and they need to work on there social skills apparently
this is exactly what i tell people about mexico. alot of gringos say mexicans are very friendly. i say that's because u are dealing with people in the service industry - restaurants, waiters, hotels, tourist zones, people tryn to sell something - but go elsewhere and u will see gringos are not welcome. expect the stupid card to be played every time. you will always be asked, where are u from? they will take your dollars at a steep discount. if u are serious about living in mexico, you need connections in top firms - like everywhere else in the world. tourist zones is not mexico. goodluck.