Colombia Expat Forum

johnnnymac
Joined 2015
Posts: 1

8 years ago

Is Colombia a good fit

8 years ago

Hello--

My name is John. I have recently been forced into an early retirement (age 35) from both the US military and law enforcement due to an injury in my right hand. Luckily, i will be receiving a yearly (tax-free) pension of about 75k when all is said and done. I am single.

I live in Boston, and this salary puts me in barely middle class. I have some friends from college who have moved to Colombia in the last few years and have been trying to get me to come down.

I've been to other Latin American countries and enjoy the culture. My Spanish is incredibly mediocre, lol, but improving and I'll have plenty more time to improve it. I checked, and I'm pretty sure my post 911 GI bill covers Spanish classes in a foreign country.

There is no way I will pass as a native. I'm pale, 6' 1" and about 290 lbs. i am also a competitive powerlifter.

I guess I'm looking for a chance to start a new life, I guess I'm young enough. I'm pretty friendly, have a master's degree (in literature, yeah, I know, lol) and would perhaps like to take some kind of employment at some level if I decide I like it. Maybe as a teacher? It really could be anything.

In general, I'm a very respectful and eager person. I'm really looking forward to this experience.

I've scheduled a plane ticket for December. I'm going to try to find an apartment in Medellin or Cartagena.

My initial trip is planned for 3 months. If I like it, I plan to stay for another 3 (keeping in mind the 6 month/year limit).

Anyway, sorry for the ramble. Now to the questions:

1. What kind of lifestyle can i expect or plan for at 75k/yr?
2. Are there good access to gyms in Medellin?
3. Are there any kind of miscellaneous things I should pl an for?

I have read through this forum and found everyone here to be an incredible help. I know many of these questions have been answered in some form or another throughout, and appreciate your time.

In short, my life has changed very rapidly and very drastically. I am hoping to start over somewhere where my income can support a decent lifestyle and I can immerse myself in a different culture.

Thanks again!

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Contribute
Help others in Colombia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.