Retiring in Colombia

There's almost no online information in English about Colombia's buying process. For people arriving for the first time, it could be a complicated subject, because they don't know language, laws or local customs.

You might have come with the idea of international living. Why not look for opportunities in South America that can offer you low costs, quality of life, outstanding landscapes and great people all in one place?

Colombia may not be the first place you think of. Unfortunately we have a lot of problems, I have to be honest with that, but we are 40 million inhabitants that have to deal with the same problems as any other country in the world. U.S. families have their kids fighting in Iraq, we have our young soldiers fighting in the jungle; safety issues could be more prevalent in New York than Bogota or Medellin; drug consumption is higher in Europe than in Colombia; South Africa, Venezuela, Jamaica & Brazil have more gun murders than Colombia, but that is not portrayed in the media. Currently kidnappings are lower in Colombia than Haiti and Mexico, for example. I can continue with all the problems we have to deal with in this modern era, but it is better to focus on the country's assets - its civilans, constitutional tradition, a record of sound economic management and performance, and educational, cultural, and scientific progress.

So what's life in Colombia like? What are the people like? How's the food? How much does it cost? Well these are the kind of questions that can only be answered by being here. Even just for a couple of weeks. Don't let the negative publicity spoil a wonderful trip. New sensations, limitless possibilities, new and exciting beginnings may await you. These are some of the advantages we have.

Unique location at the northwest corner of South America There are two seas, the Andean mountains and the convenient distance. Colombia is about a three hour flight from Miami to Bogota, Medellin or Cali. There is climate diversity. You can choose what fits your needs. You even can feel the four seasons any time of the year.

Cost of living is attractive and affordable for a high quality of life Pure natural comfortable way of living. Community complexes outside the cities, but near at the same time, is becoming popular in Colombia.

Foreign investment is welcome in Colombia Before the end of 2007 the National government will approve a legislature package to encourage foreign families to live and invest in Colombia.. They want to focus on attracting the huge number of retirees from the U.S and Europe. Today countries with coastal cities like Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama hoard this market. We have realized that Colombia has equal or even better advantages than some of those countries. Right now foreigners can purchase homes, invest, and run any business with no other limitations than the same for locals, and may obtain full ownership titles.

Accessibility of commercial facilities where you can supply your daily necessities Large supermarket chains are already settled in most Colombian cities (France retail chains like Carrefour and Groupe Casino who bought local retail chain Xito ). They carry a wealth of local and imported groceries and general articles.

Technology infrastructure High internet accessibility is due in part to the fact that Colombia maintains the third-highest telephone density in Latin America, ahead of Brazil and Mexico.

Blessed with tropical, subtropical regions We produce all kinds of fruits and vegetables in abundance. Fresh products and exotic fruits are available daily in the markets around the country. You'll be surprised to taste delicious fruits you have never even heard of.

Healthcare factor An extensive modern private healthcare infrastructure is available around Colombia. You can buy health insurance for half the cost of the US. - Hospitals and clinics have up-to-date medicine, trained doctors, technology, and equipment. Famous Argentine soccer player Diego Maradona chose Cartagena for his gastric bypass surgery which helped him lose about 100 pounds. A few weeks ago he returned to Bogota to have a dental aesthetic treatment. It is not only famous people who have considered Colombia for medical surgery, but common people from around the world come here because of the low cost and well trained doctors. We also have the Barraquer Clinic, an internationally recognized eye clinic where an innovative laser technology for surgical purposes was devised.

Ecotourism attractions Colombia is the No. 1 bird watching spot in the world. At the Pacific coast you can do whalewatching, scuba diving and snorkeling You'll find wherever you decide to live there are different spots for outdoor activities ( hiking, climbing, mountain biking, paragliding) supported by spring weather year round.

The friendly nature of Colombian people This is our most valuable asset. People are friendly with foreigners. Even if you don't speak Spanish, people in the streets will make an effort to understand you.

Lower cost of living does not mean you have to sacrifice the quality of life you have been accustomed to in the United States or Canada. In fact, you will probably be able to live in Colombia with even more luxuries than you are accustomed to, simply because the prices are so economical. The property market offers significant bargains. A comfortable lifestyle can be enjoyed in Colombia on just a fraction of what you'd spend in many other parts of the world. Having a devaluated currency is more an advantage than a disadvantage. And it always has to be this way. Long term country policies are focusing on strengthening export and international trade so that the Peso has to be devaluated in order to gain economic competitiveness.

Take the time to explore a new place, give us the opportunity to show you this beautiful country. Some other sites promote retiring in Colombia better than me, but if you already have this curiosity or you are exploring how to settle here and starting to think of buying a property in Colombia, visit the most complete guide about "How to buy Colombia Real Estate" at www.buycolombiarealty.com.