An Expat Talks about Living in Medellin, Colombia

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Medellin

How long have you lived there?

Three years

In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

Overall, the people are accepting of anyone in my experience. I have only met one Colombian who has complained about expats. I don't pay much attention to this person. The economic diversity is defined by six "Strata" six being the highest. Culturally, this is South America, to be sure, great South America. This city is law abiding for the most part and handled the covid quarantine with poise. Perfect, no. There were instances like everywhere. The most complaints i hear are from expats who, perhaps, wish Medellin was more similar to states. Having said that, most expats love it here, particularly retirees who have a higher standard of living on less monthly income. Anything this city puts its mind to to accomplish they do beautifully. Communities come from all over the world to learn how Medellin achieves the standards it does.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

In terms of expat opportunities, Medellin is becoming known as a prime location from which to do telecommuting work. People also come hoping to teach English here although pay is not particularly good. However, i know a man who is teaching English to children via internet in China so there are a lot of opportunities. If a person wants to work here, it would be essential to have a working knowledge of Spanish. I get along in English quite well, however, i am very limited not knowing Spanish.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

In general, in my opinion, this is a very fine, large Latin city of over four million. Being Latin, families are very strong, work is strong, socializing is very strong and the people of Medellin are some of the nicest you will find worldwide. They welcome expats. This is a very diverse city, thirteen universities, excellent medical facilities, clean, excellent food, water, air (seasonal concerns). Worldwide metropolitan city that is very difficult to beat. You will look long and hard to find a better worldwide city!

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

A person can develop a beautiful life here, however, it will take time and not happen magically .The assets of this city are well worth the investment. Be kind to yourself and patient. Don't believe all you hear. Everyone (expat, other) has their best visa person, you can loose a lot of money on that one. Just because someone has lived here two years, or in four Latin countries, does not mean they are experts, at all. Find the ones who have lived here fifteen years. Listen to what people say, put what they say through your own filter system, use your head, you can do this. You can do this! You will make mistakes, everyone does! It is part of moving abroad. You will have to put some effort into this and give yourself three years in the long term. One has to learn how to live here, the resources are excellent and again, Medellinguru.com is very helpful. It is worth the investment of your time and energy to learn how to do this!