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Villavicencio
Yes I did. Originally I was born in Colombia, but I left in 2001 to the U.S. So I was somewhat aware of my own culture. I came back to Colombia in 2008, and it was, shock.
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Yes I'm fluent in both Spanish and English, When I moved to the U.S I was very young, so English became my first language as time went on. When I returned to Colombia I didn't think the language barrier was going to be a problem. To my surprise, I was told my Spanish was a awkward. and this was of course said by the locals or family members. I think the reason was that since I think in English, I translate it in Spanish...which isn't always accurate.
Not entirely.
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It was some what significant. Because I realized that Colombians tend to not take themselves too seriously.
Also privacy is a foreign language to most, sometimes it feels like they need/want to know every aspect of your life. I've also realized being reserved won't get you many friends here. People like to talk a lot, so if you don't say much it will isolate you. All in all Colombians are very kind people, most people are hardworking and courteous.
My honeymoon phase didn't last long. After we arrived at EL Dorado and took a taxi. The Taxi driver almost ran over a woman trying to cross the street. It was intense.
The irritation phase lasted the most. What really bothered me and still does is how unpunctual people can be here. Say you plan a meeting with three people at 5 pm. Yet no one shows up until 5:30 or later. I guess I still have the idea that time management should be the same as in the U.S. but sadly, it isn't. The Adjustment phase is where I am at right now, I've come to terms with a lot of aspects that makes Colombian culture the way it is.
Homesickness was one. I miss Wal-Mart and buying organic produce. Some sweets such as Pop-Tarts. Everything that's imported is hella expensive. A jar of peanut butter will cost you about 5 dollars.
Everything, especially how Colombian deal with relationships. Since relationships are so close, and everyone talks, there's more gossip. But in the end people do care and want to help any way they can.
Transportation. This really bothers me at time.
Rule of thumb when coming to Colombia - expect the unexpected. Some things will marvel you, others might shock you, but most of them will surprise you.
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Our guide to healthcare in Colombia covers public and private healthcare in Colombia, hospitals, vaccinations, prescription medications and more.
An expat in Villavicencio, Colombia talks about culture shock in Colombia. His greatest challenge is that Colombians don't value time in the same way that Americans do.
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Very interesting and helpful.
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Our guide to healthcare in Colombia covers public and private healthcare in Colombia, hospitals, vaccinations, prescription medications and more.
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An expat in Villavicencio, Colombia talks about culture shock in Colombia. His greatest challenge is that Colombians don't value time in the same way that Americans do.
Colombia is an up-and-coming expat destination. With it's low cost of living, and wonderful people, Colombia has a lot to offer.
Colombia has made an incredible transformation. Expats in Colombia have a lot to say about the best places to live in Colombia. From cities on the Caribbean coast to inland cities, here are 6 of the best places to live in Colombia.
Expats in Colombia share insightful tips for buying property in Colombia. If you're thinking about buying real estate in Colombia, there is much to learn from their experiences.
Expats in Colombia share experiences with the Colombian healthcare system. Tips cover EPS, quality of medical care, hospital stays and more.
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