15 Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Colombia

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Want to move to Colombia, but not sure where to start?
I've teamed up with 13 year Medellin expat, Andrew Macia to bring you this in depth video which covers EVERYTHING you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress free transition to life in Colombia.
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00:00 Intro
00:29 Banking
03:00 Renew Your Documents
03:18 Visas
05:20 Rentals
08:27 Health Insurance
10:58 Mobile Service
13:35 Mail, Shipping & What to Bring
16:45 Tell Them You're Leaving
17:31 Learning Spanish
20:31 Meeting People
23:33 Clothes to Bring
26:44 Getting Around
30:25 Taking Out Cash
G'day, my name's AK and on this channel I explore expat life in Medellin, Colombia. Whether you're considering moving to Medellin or just visiting Colombia, I've got you covered. Join me as I show you exactly what living in Medellin and Colombia as an expat is really like.
#medellin #colombia #medellincolombia #expat #digitalnomad

[@dirk7816]

Excellent video, I lived in Medellin most of last year on a student visa. On transportation I always used the metro which are always packed or the abundant yellow cabs which are metered and affordable but I had friends that used Uber. One day he left his phone in the Uber and was able to get it back by leaving a reward plea on the driver review, the driver read it, found his phone called his wife and he had it back in about 20 minutes. He gave the driver $50 which our local friends thought was way to high but he said it was worth every dime to get my phone back and he wanted to send the message that good deed can be rewarded.

[@alvarez1073]

Born and raised in Medellín, that's the type of positive and constructive stereotypes that the locals look up to

[@Niles-Guy]

Out of all the KZbinrs in Colombia you guys provided the best most useful information. Only suggestion is to include the actual links to all services discussed such as the healthcare , banking etc

[@AKJoel]

Thanks - good suggestion - will keep that in mind for future vids.

[@johnhamilton6330]

Yea, like what was the name of the insurance, SOODA?? for SUDA?

[@mikescarborough9196]

Chime Bank cards now work in Colombia and they don’t charge any fees for the transactions. It works just like I’m back in the States. I also use Remitly.

[@andrewinspires]

I’ll have to check out Chime

[@AKJoel]

Great tip - cheers Mike!

[@KurtRWalker]

Remitly has limits and is mid cost

[@GregPorto1]

You guys have the most practical videos 👍

[@kevfromvegas8768]

One thing, you don't need a test anymore if you don't have "the shot". They ended that about a month ago.

[@AKJoel]

Thanks for bringing that to our attention Kev, I just studied up on this and yes you are correct. No vaccination card or covid test required to enter Colombia anymore, as of May 2023!

[@sunrise4569]

Hey, I been to colombia twenty years ago they banking was more advanced than the usa that Times, but I imagine now they're more advanced.

[@Curious859]

Oh wow! They were still asking for that 💩? Did you live there during the 💩show? How bad and strict and dystopian was their government in forcing their dystopian rules? I need to know because I certainly don’t want to repeat the Canadian dystopia in another one

[@danbryan2688]

I’m headed to Medellin for the month of July. This has been by far the most useful video I’ve found so far. Well done fellas

[@AKJoel]

Happy we could help you out Dan!

[@MetodiSpasov]

Same here brother

[@danbryan2688]

@@AKJoel I was looking back through your old videos and about 6 months ago you mentioned there were threats being made. Have they died down? Sounded like you were contemplating moving but are still there

[@AKJoel]

I blocked the account so I haven't seen any threats since then - but I saw other KZbinrs receiving the exact same type of comments from the same account. I did some detective work and figured out it wasn't actually an angry local at all - it was another Medellin based KZbinr from the US - likely trying to scare away the competition - crazy huh?!

[@danbryan2688]

@@AKJoel KZbin creators are cut-throat haha. I will be over there from July one for a month looking around. If you guys are around I would welcome an opportunity to buy you guys a beer or coffee to thank you for all the insight and help. Be good to catch up with another Aussie after living in the US for 10 years

[@mokenyuyufanyi5787]

That ATM convention rate is gold, thank you. I usually just say a few curse words and then accept lol

[@AKJoel]

Yeah mate so many people waste so much money just smashing "accept" without reading hahaha

[@DavidToback]

Thanks guys, just got back from Colombia and seriously consider Medellin. Have a couple of friends that live there but your channel has been really helpful!!

[@AKJoel]

Glad we could help out mate! 👍🏾👊🏾

[@juanvaldez7633]

Good comprehensive video guys - as a nearly 3-year resident of Medellín it's of limited use to me personally, but there is nothing here I would take issue with. One suggestion regarding transportation - instead of taxis or any of the ride services, I get around almost everywhere on the west side of the river where I live on my bicycle (generally I'll take the metro if I have to get over to the other side somewhere, but absolutely avoid during rush hour when it's jam packed). This has the great advantage of never getting stuck in the incredibly frustrating Medellín traffic, plus there are numerous bike lanes that you can utilize. Also you get some exercise and don't contribute to the already substantial air quality problems in the city. Takes a while to get used to the bike riding norms here, and you always have to prepare for the unexpected with pedestrians and motos, but if I myself as a 65-year-old can deal, you can too!

[@AKJoel]

Good idea, although not for everyone. I don't recommend riding a bike if you're carrying expensive electronics. Always Uber to and from where you're going.

[@buddhaweatherby368]

Much appreciated gents. I am a US military vet and security pro contemplating relocating and Medellín in in my top tier for consideration. I love how straightforward and nuts and bolts this was. Your safety video was also very clear and feels like a great starter on the topic. I’ve traveled a bit in South America, but never in Colombia (yet). If I do go for the long term move to Medellín, I’ll be looking into your Masterclass. Having solid local Intel has been profoundly useful and quite likely lifesaving. The bit about not leaving because of the local relationships is very encouraging and loving many things about my relationships at home is the only real cause for hesitation. Thanks again.

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed it mate! We've got plenty more to come too!

[@mahoganymillworks7156]

Most informative video about Colombia I’ve ever watched. Thanks guys! Very very helpful info.

[@AKJoel]

Happy we could help out mate!!

[@elliottjenkins189]

Thank you very much. I am looking forward to visiting Medellin again. Have a great day.

[@AKJoel]

Glad ya enjoyed it Elliot! Have a good one! 👍🏾

[@risingstar3861]

Great information gentleman. You really laid it out in a concise manner. I found it very helpful.

[@AKJoel]

Glad we could provide some value mate!

[@auxvainqueurs]

depends on the learner, of course. i would never discourage anyone from any learning app. with that being said, if you can't fully immerse yourself in the culture you're looking to be in, speak as much as you can with native speakers, ultimately, that will get you to your goal faster. if you are an app person, you can also use Pimsleur which forces you to speak w/o worrying about grammar, vocabulary or tricky idioms. using it, you'll learn to speak much faster than most other language apps IMO. immerse yourself with the things you love using your target language. most importantly, have fun!! suerte!!

[@WheresWes]

Fantastic video bro, nice job!

[@AKJoel]

Cheers mate!

[@DondiniMontefusco]

Fantastic teamup! 👏🏼👍🏼☮️

[@AKJoel]

Glad ya enjoyed it!

[@eddieonthegotravel]

I’m sure that applies to anywhere in the country. I just got to Barranquilla yesterday. A bumpy ride literally and figuratively, but estoy aqui!

[@AKJoel]

Is it raining up there? I'm actually thinking of visiting soon too

[@eddieonthegotravel]

@@AKJoel I remember you saying that when we last chatted in comments! So far it’s been exactly like my experience in Panamá. Forecast says rain, little or nothing. And in these 2 days I have seen zero precipitation.

[@eddieonthegotravel]

I will be here at least 3 months. Let me know.

[@chrispel84]

Great to see you guys teaming up! I've been following AK since the start and just discovered Andrew on the Colombia podcast last week (has me PMSL each episode) Looking forward to the content on its way.

[@andrewinspires]

thanks brother!

[@AKJoel]

Glad you're enjoying the content mate - stay tuned we have a LOT more coming!

[@alexandervittrupandersen9188]

Excellent content guys - you talked about all the key points I was curious about and more! Moving to Colombia on exchange for half a year in July and this was super helpful. Thanks for taking the time to explain all of these so thoroughly with great suggestions, keep up the tremendous work

[@AKJoel]

Our pleasure mate, glad we could help out!!

[@robertturner8587]

Thanks for all the information it is great to hear about all things. I'm going to manazeles, but this I think it applies to most city's

[@AKJoel]

Glad it was helpful!

[@carolehartley7716]

Great videos, guys. I worked in Latin America several years and still vacation there during the cold Canadian winter. Your advice is spot on, i was surprised to learn a few things I wasn't aware of. Keep up the good work!

[@AKJoel]

Thanks Carole, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@eddieonthegotravel]

Don’t forget the Check-Mig has to be filled out before you leave as well. I just learned that through email last night.

[@AKJoel]

Hey mate - I'm pretty sure I mentioned the Check-Mig in the Visa part of this video!

[@eddieonthegotravel]

@@AKJoel oh sorry didn’t catch it if you mentioned it for departure. Something must have distracted me. Lol

[@Travelinlad]

Hey Joel. Really enjoyed the vlog and tips. I'm looking to move to Medellin in October.

[@AKJoel]

Glad I could provide some value mate! If you need any help with the big move, check this out 👍🏾🇨🇴 medellinmasterclass.com/

[@nadicmark-4077]

talking about shorts maybe in medellin and cold weather regions is not a thing but in the costa and the llanos(villavicencio) they wear shorts all the time, I'm in villavo and I wear shorts flip flops just like everybody else.

[@AKJoel]

Oh wow I'm jealous!! Haha

[@rhondaclaiborne7283]

Thank you! Your video is good one, mostly what an expat would need to know: Type of visa, credit/debit card, three areas to possibly reside.

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed the video Rhonda! We just made a video on the 3 best areas for expats - I think you'll like it! kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4qmhnyDptl6r9E

[@brooksrogers1975]

Based on your CS comments, I thought I might hear back sometime next week from the MED BMW dealership on whether they could service my MINI EV which I'm thinking about bringing with me. I heard back in about ½ hour. I was really surprised. And yes, they say they can service it. Now we have to see how much shipping it will cost along with entry tariffs.

[@AKJoel]

Maybe cos it's BMW there's a certain level of service required worldwide.

[@brooksrogers1975]

​@@AKJoel Cierto

[@AnthonyHinesnusn]

Very informative and great video!!

[@AKJoel]

Glad we could help out Anthony!!

[@shabadime10]

Great Great helpful information fellas. I'm impressed..keep up the great work.

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed it! Let us know if you have any other questions! We love getting feedback so we can plan future videos that'll provide value :)

[@shabadime10]

Good morning Joel. I'm searching everywhere for 1 on 1 ONLINE Spanish classes. I need to learn Colombian Spanish.

[@TomBath]

Nice job guys!

[@AKJoel]

Cheers Tommy!

[@Joe-gl8sr]

Wow!!! Great info!!! Never used ATMs before and that last point is gold for me!

[@AKJoel]

Yeah that ATM trick gets a lot of people, glad we could help you out!

[@christiane785]

That tennis camp is an awesome idea. Will you be doing another? I lived in Laureles for two years and left this March to travel but return in August. Did private sessions four times a wk in estadio/belen while there and played in local tournaments (tercera level). Let me know because I'm down.

[@AKJoel]

Yes we're thinking of doing them once a month! Remind me when you're back in the country and I'll add you to the group!

[@christiane785]

@@AKJoel Awesome .. will do

[@paulashwell1604]

all great information - thanks

[@AKJoel]

Glad it was helpful! 🙂

[@mihamohorko]

Thanks guys. I was a huge fan of the podcast you did for a while. I think it was called The Colombian podcast? Anyway. Happy to discover you are still creating content. I am seriously thinking to get the paid youtube content as well.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah Andy's Colombia Podcast was great!! That was one of the first Colombia vids I watched before I got here haha

[@giorenaud9657]

Thank you for everything you guys do!!!

[@AKJoel]

Thanks for al the support Gio :)

[@Melloyelloo71]

It's good that you brought this subject---->n regards to "El Marrano", what I noticed is that if you tell them or make it known to them that you are always paying for stuff they will not like it. That's what I would call (Que sinica). Also due to the reason that you are always paying for something why don't they just agree to get that one thing even if it's 2nd hand, used, or less quality. If you say something like that, especially in the beginning they will let you know that don't like "chichipatos". Again, that's after buying stuff for them time and time again. Then, if you turn the tables and say to them, "Why am I "chichipato" but not you?". I have noticed that whatever you are going to buy you are looking for deals but if I pay them you do want me to pay them retail/full price/new item. You don't want used/2nd hand. Then they will say you are a "grocero" (rude). Therefore, I am done with all that. Just like to enjoy my vacation eating stuff, seeing stuff/places. The minute you talk with those type of women you are in trouble. Beware who you talk to. Anyway, I met those women in the past from those marriage agencies which I cannot say the name. The agencies make you sign a disclosure stating they are not responsible on who you date.

[@AKJoel]

Damn bro sounds like you've had a horrible experience!

[@gg13308]

This was a GREAT video, I just found your channel and I am loving your content. I was in Laureles in January and I was not prepared for the daily rain. But I loved the city and the people. I plan to return and stay in another area. I am a bit older so I would like a smaller city. Some folks tell me Envigado? What are other smaller options in Medellin that I need to consider? Please let me know TIA

[@andrewinspires]

Yes, Laureles is nice. Envigado is really nice as well, but remember, Envigado is its own city, and it's a good 45-minute ride to Poblado with traffic. You may want to check out Belen, La Floresta, Guayabal, and Los Colores. Those are all in Medellín.

[@AKJoel]

Glad we could provide some value with our video! I think Andrew gave you some great suggestions below on areas you might enjoy - we have another video coming soon which speaks about Envigado (pros and cons) in detail - so you might find that useful! But just to summarize - if you don't mind living in a more authentic Colombian area, a bit further from all the tourism, then Envigado is an EXCELLENT option - it's the safest place area, has the cleanest air and also is substantially cheaper than areas like Laureles! Not to mention the incredible nature and hiking out that way.

[@tradiavereen678]

Great video! Visited Cartagena twice. Headed to Medellin for a month in March. If i love it, I plan to move in June for 6 months! Did you guys move solo at first?

[@AKJoel]

Yeah I traveled solo and jumped around a lot of different neighborhoods to see what I liked best!

[@tradiavereen678]

@@AKJoel if I don't like Medellin I plan to do the same! Downloaded Babble and I've started with Spanish flashcards. Thanks for the video

[@hjmendoza71]

I have Wells Fargo military account which waves my atm fees abroad and I pull out money with the Davienda atm which doesn't charge atm fees. I get the exact rate of the peso conversion

[@andrewinspires]

Ah that's great info, thanks!

[@AKJoel]

Great option!

[@folexeyy]

Hi! I cannot find the "MDE Community" from 22:06, could you kindly share the link? Thank you so much for your video! Deciding on going to Colombia or Guatemala right now, and finding community is a big thing for me :)

[@AKJoel]

Here you go! linktr.ee/mdecommunity

[@nycrypto_investor]

Great informative video! Is there a crypto community in Medellin?

[@AKJoel]

Yes there is - I've seen weekly crypto meetups advertise. Not my scene though so not sure exactly when and where sorry, but if you ask in an Expat Facebook group I'm sure someone can let you know!

[@nycrypto_investor]

@@AKJoel Thanks for the info. I will do some further research.

[@DavidToback]

I contacted my banks before visiting Colombia a few weeks ago, and all of them didn’t need to be notified because of advanced fraud detection where they contact you with suspicious transactions. Always good to check with your institution, but think this is something that has changed fairly recently

[@AKJoel]

That's awesome, my stupid Aussie bank still blocks my card if I don't tell them where I'm going first 😅

[@BronxBombers_726]

I would still contact the banks even though they say you don’t have to.

[@oceanaxim]

I just wanted to mention when learning languages, I learned Brazilian Portuguese using Pimsleur method, I ripped the lessons to my iPod at the time and listened every night as I lay in bed to sleep. It worked very well, and learned many useful situational and conversational phrases I could actually use. Later when I felt more confident I tried Rosetta Stone, I bought the entire set. What a waste of money. I was learning stupid phrases like "The small boy jumped over the red ball". WTF? Where am I going to use that phrase?

[@AKJoel]

Haha exactly the same issue I had with Duolingo - I almost finished the whole course and still couldn't speak to anyone lol absolutely useless!

[@robbyjackson5103]

Great video fellas!

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed it Robby!

[@andrewinspires]

Thanks Robby

[@navigatingsideways]

Thanks 🙏 guys. I was planning to go to Belize 🇧🇿 but I found out it’s the costliest place for January/February. Columbia keeps me in the same time zone and high quality internet speeds. I have great Mandarin skills. Learning survival Columbian Spanish will be a new goal. Can you advise a realtor for 1-3 months for guaranteed stay. This is my 1st time in South America since 2003 when I was in Quito. I look forward to getting out of the States and back on the road.

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed the video! We have a list of our recommended realtors - you can get access here: medellinmasterclass.com/rentlocal/

[@sunnydaysfit3763]

Fantastic content

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed it and stay tuned cos we have plenty more coming!!

[@huandru]

Ooma is excellent for a US telephone number. Ooma beats MagicJack in every way.

[@AKJoel]

Awesome thanks for the tip!

[@JackSmith-gv5yw]

Great info guys! :)

[@AKJoel]

Happy we could help!

[@thegradnomad]

Hi! Awesome videa. I don't see a form for requesting the personal assistant services. What's the link?

[@AKJoel]

We don't have this service anymore sorry!

[@carolinapower6890]

Thanks a Lot guys

[@AKJoel]

Glad you found it useful Carolina!

[@Curious859]

Hello. I’m still watching, and I just finished the “banking” part. However, I never heard you say anything about who can open a Colombian bank account. Can I, as a visitor, open a bank account there? I heard I couldn’t, but no one mentioned that. You would think that it's very important to tell people. What if I’m visiting and staying for a few months to see if I should extend my visit and apply for temporary or even permanent residency? However, during my waiting period, I’m not able to open a bank account to rent an apartment. Wouldn’t that be a huge headache?

[@williesteele4503]

Great video. I understand about the ATM card for cash, but where can you exchange dollars if a person does bring US dollars? Do they have casa de cambios like in Mexico, or do you need to go to a Bank?

[@AKJoel]

Yeah there's plenty of Casas de Cambio around where you can exchange your money 👍🏾

[@odetoazam]

i never wore jeans there even once. mostly shorts.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah it's too hot for jeans most of the time, I only wear them if I'm going out at night

[@jamesdicale1763]

Can you confirm about covid entry requirements - because I've looked online and I'm pretty sure you don't need to show anything anymore.

[@AKJoel]

Yes, in May 2023 they changed the rules. You don't need to show anything anymore.

[@luislasso7984]

Any recommendations for an international shipping company? I'm wanting to move my furniture from Florida to Cali when we move

[@DN-kb9tk]

Can you share your drivers information please. What does he charge for airport pick ups ? Thanks

[@temprmj1]

hello Joel, what's the maximum amount ot time before I can apply to extend by another 3 months? 30 days?

[@QRPalmSprings]

I’m fascinated. How may I best proceed?

[@AKJoel]

Proceed with moving to Colombia? Here's some resources to get you started: FREE RESOURCES: ✅ No BS Guide to Moving to Medellin (eBook): medellinmasterclass.com/checklist 📌 Where to Live in Medellin Course: medellinmasterclass.com/freecourse/ 🌄 The Perfect Week in Medellin (eBook): www.akjoel.com/ebook NEXT LEVEL RESOURCES: 📖 JOIN The Masterclass: medellinmasterclass.com/ ☎️ BOOK a Call With Me: www.akjoel.com/consultations

[@johncruz6240]

Well done guys, new subscriber, very educational information. Keep up the amazing job.

[@AKJoel]

Welcome aboard John, glad we could provide some value!

[@kentcovington]

Great video and terrific advice! I’ll put it to good use. I heard a COVID test is no longer necessary. No?

[@AKJoel]

Correct - I just checked and no more test required as of May 2023!

[@ericmcbride3063]

hi id like to get info on personal assistants

[@SinanErgin88]

Bancolombia never accepted to decline the currency exchange rate for me not in bogota not in medellin, most of the other banks did

[@riqhte]

Im saving money to move to colombia & stay there for 2 yrs to 3 yrs & see how i like it to stay i do speak spanish i just dont know how to write spanish i do have colombian parents & family members i leave in colombia years but i was like 5yrs old my colombian passport expired i can i renew that one again im in the usa do have a american passport

[@sergioperesa7179]

I want to live in colombia, do you have an immigration Lawer you recommend in Colombia?

[@AKJoel]

Yes - I recommend Nexo Legal - they're great. You can contact them here: nexo.legal/contact/?rc=100005

[@justiceleague007]

What was the name of that health insurance MediCare app? Was it Suda?

[@AKJoel]

Sura

[@JuanGArangoTV]

Are there markets or health stores in Medellin that are conveniently located? Stores that are helpful for vegans or other lifestyles?

[@AKJoel]

Yeah there's a lot of health food stores around where you can get vegan stuff. There's also vegan fests that happen throughout the year that have lots of stalls and food trucks set up.

[@intramotus]

the fashion on this channel... wow - did you guys call each other this morning or was this a dare ?

[@AKJoel]

haha we got your attention so the fashion is serving it's purpose!!

[@cobeferraro3464]

I'm visiting medellin for 3 weeks in August! Is there a chess club there?

[@AKJoel]

There's chess in a few of the parks - you can check out the "Board Games" group in this community and ask there! linktr.ee/mdecommunity

[@matthewowen1360]

Mde community? I did find it on google?

[@AKJoel]

here you go! www.mdecommunity.com/

[@nubianknight129]

Hey guys what was that website you recommended to do different activities?

[@AKJoel]

Here you go: www.mdecommunity.com/

[@nubianknight129]

@@AKJoel Thanks! Love the show!

[@ybpaul]

Do you have the link for a personal assistant?

[@AKJoel]

Yup! All our contacts are provided in our "Live Like a Local" Guide: medellinmasterclass.com/guides/

[@TheKenene]

My wife and I what she is Colombian we bought a couple apartments in Barranquilla. I'm trying to get out of the United States before the economic system collapse. And I'm wondering what is the process of transporting precious metals. What is the maximum you can bring each visit? I have silver coins. Oh I also forgot to ask about large screen TVs. Never mind I just saw the part of your video that covers that.😂 One more thing I trade in stocks what's the internet like? When I was there years ago the internet closed down certain hours of the day

[@AKJoel]

Wow man what a niche question with the precious metals - unfortunately I have no idea lol

[@GordoPresley-zu8pk]

Hi guys what about obtaining a working visa for Colombia how and what visa is required there

[@AKJoel]

Contact these visa lawyers they can help you out mate. nexo.legal/contact/?rc=100005

[@jlynnburton9718]

I was watching another Colombia video & a comment was made by a man who said the Taxes imposed on a Visa retiree made his change his mind to another country because a tax attorney told him where he has a $35,000-40,000 / year tax burden in the US he would be out $90,000-$100,000/ Yr in Colombia can you make a Video on the taxes imposed on Retirees by the country plz??

[@AKJoel]

We have a whole section on taxation presented by taxation lawyers in our Medellin Masterclass. medellinmasterclass.com/

[@ajkolb5531]

What are your thoughts on rio negro?

[@AKJoel]

go there often to stay at a tennis hostel for a few days - absolutely beautiful area and a few degrees cooler than Medellin too!

[@ajkolb5531]

@@AKJoel is it better than medellin?

[@maskiatlan]

yo bro, interesting videos, but you did one with magic mushroom guy, but i found on the internet that it is very prohibited in columbia, so whats the deal with recreational ...... usage, it says punishments are really hard?

[@AKJoel]

I'm not sure about the legal ramifications of that sorry mate - I just made the video because I thought it was an interesting topic!

[@maskiatlan]

@@AKJoel so maybe there is a good video idea in that, what happens if you recreationally use ...and get in trouble with the popo ...

[@Driver2724]

I don't know Spanish I like to retire in armenia colombia. Do you have more ideas. From Texas

[@AKJoel]

You can get started learning Spanish on Rosetta Stone, it's a great: partners.rosettastone.com/akjoelscolombia

[@carolinapower6890]

Please Name of the health insurance from Andrew!

[@andrewinspires]

The company is Sura. The plan is called Global.

[@LuisFigo4]

Have you been to the airport recently Joel? It's more than 90 now

[@AKJoel]

I went in March and it was 90 - looking on Uber it says 105 now - so yes maybe it's gone up!

[@danielh9844]

When I went in September, the Rionegro-based limo service that you catch out of the airport was much better priced than Uber.

[@AKJoel]

I just went to the airport last week and I paid 120k for Uber Comfort

[@jessejames4967]

Looking out my window here in Medellín on a Monday afternoon....Majority of Colombians wearing shorts.

[@AKJoel]

Does your window face a soccer pitch? 😂

[@jessejames4967]

@@AKJoel No it doesn't Mate 😊

[@aakashraj8209]

Bro i am today years old when i got to know your name is also akash 😂 i always used to think you look like indian

[@tanweerahmed6861]

I have heard that in Colombia they block your phone IMEI in few months if you have a phone outside of Colombia and you don’t register it with their telecom authority , is this correct ?

[@tanweerahmed6861]

@@AKJoel great, thanks for clarification

[@MarcoArango]

Actually, yes. The IMEI has to be registered, otherwise the carrier will block it. But it's simple and a Colombian can help you. I always do it for my Airbnb guests.

[@AKJoel]

Actually now that I think about it that could be true. When I arrived in Bogota I just got a girl selling Claro SIM cards to set everything up for me - so it's quite possible that she could've done that whole process for me.

[@AKJoel]

Thanks for bringing that to my attention Marco! 👍🏾

[@tanweerahmed6861]

@@MarcoArango what is the process , actually I have already visited Colombia in February and I believe my IMEI will be already blocked , I purchased a claro SIM from airport and i am sure they don't register my IMEI with carrier , my next trip is in august and i am afraid my phone will not work anymore which i reach there in august, any suggestion ?

[@barryoneill-ec9zz]

Are there many English speaking people there?

[@AKJoel]

Less than 4% of the population speaks English

[@andrewinspires]

The expat community’s has grown a lot in the last 13 years. Regardless, Colombia is a great place to learn Spanish. Plus the paisa accent is pretty easy to understand.

[@firstlast3192]

Is it pronounced Medasheen or Medayeen?

[@AKJoel]

MED A JIN

[@firstlast3192]

@@AKJoel i thought 2 LL's together is pronounced as a y..

[@AKJoel]

📞 FREE 15-minute Call: medellinmasterclass.com/ ☀️BOOK a Life Redesign Consult with AK: www.akjoel.com/consultations 🌄SCHEDULE a Medellin Life Call with AK & Andrew: medellinmasterclass.com/book-call/ 💵 How I Make Money to Travel (Full Course): www.youtube.com/@AKJoel/membership 📽 Promos & Sponsorships: [e-mail]

[@GeronimoLogistics]

AIR b&b put me on a blacklist for a misdemeanor I had 10 years ago, any other options other than air B&B?

[@AKJoel]

Are you looking for short term or long term?

[@GeronimoLogistics]

@@AKJoel Short term right now

[@Ardilla88]

I know I could just google this, but I thought it would be a good question to see what kind of responses I get. In Colombia, is there such a thing as "common law marriage" and what mistakes do you have to make to be in one? I am just now getting out of a marriage to a Costa Rican that lives in Costa Rica... I will rent or lease... I don't ever plan on buying again.

[@AKJoel]

Yes there is, it's called a Domestic Partnership: expatgroup.co/english/other-services/domestic-partnership-common-law-marriage/ I'm about to apply for this in about a year myself, so I'll let you know then what mistakes need to be made hahaha

[@andrewinspires]

Good questions...I'd probably want to know if there's a type of prenuptial agreement that can be signed too. Just in case. lol

[@astrozoo]

How is this guy Colombian if he was raised in Southern California? Talk about identity confusion.

[@AKJoel]

He was born in Colombia to Colombian parents and moved to the States when he was a child

[@andrewinspires]

It’s true though. I grew up confused. For a long time I felt more Mexican than Colombian. Now, after living in Colombia for 13 years I feel more Colombian. However, I identify more with gringos. It’s all fucked up lol.

[@sixtusedwide1186]

Is Medellin a safe city?

[@AKJoel]

It's safe if you're educated to the dangers and don't do stupid things. I have a video all about safety coming next week which you might find useful!

[@JohnCasto1]

Where can we contact you about finding a personal assistant? I’m moving to Medellin long term in august and will need someone locally and will be building a local team as well for my business

[@AKJoel]

Hey John, fill out your details here and we'll be in contact. medellinmasterclass.com/

[@ralphacero2785]

....What..! Is Medellín suddenly so dangerous? Or are you too freaking fragile! LOL Cheers!

[@AKJoel]

The only danger is that you'll stay here forever lol

[@MedellinBuzz]

Yes, after 13 years here I'm running away. 🤣

[@yolofrank]

you cant run in flip flops

[@andrewinspires]

LOL

[@MartyLovell]

So I need to know badly...how is it for white people moving. Down there from the US..and what's the best advice for white people

[@AKJoel]

I'm not sure about white people, but in general best advice is don't wear flashy things and show that you have money.

[@BigChaz]

Delete that Duolingo shit! LOL

[@AKJoel]

Haha such a waste of time!

[@anthonyplacide3929]

Yeah! But Brazil is also cheap to live. The culture food rent houses everything cheap. Brasil is way better than Columbia Costa Rica peru mexico panama are nowhere compare to brazil Do you ppl know Brazil has free healthcare for everyone? To live in Brazil permanently you can either married or have a kid with a Brazilian girl and prove that you are taking care of the kid. Once you have a kid in Brazil you can't be deported ITS THE LAW

[@AKJoel]

I agree that Brasil is an awesome place, but why would I want to have a kid with someone just to stay in a country? lol

[@anthonyplacide3929]

@@AKJoel 😂 have you seen those Brazilians girls? Are you kidding me? Also I referred to those who wanna live permanently in the country. Not short term.

[@AKJoel]

yeah I have but having a kid - no chance - too much work lol

[@anthonyplacide3929]

@@AKJoel too much work? 😂 I know some dads are paying 20 bucks a month in child support for one kid. Life is cheap my man. Really cheap.

[@AKJoel]

Not sure what kind of father you're planning to be, but I meant actually staying and raising a child - not abandoning and just paying child support.

[@wordsareweapons]

definitely needed this video thanks

[@AKJoel]

No worries!! Happy to help!

[@AKJoel]

Glad we could provide some value mate!