5 Reasons Foreigners Don't Last in Medellin, Colombia...

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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

[@wayne7936]

100% facts about needing Spanish. It's so hard to make local friends in MDE without it. Even if you find a local that happens to speak English, because locals are super social, it's going to be hard to hang out with their friends and family, who likely won't speak any English.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah you might meet 1 or 2 but you're basically cutting out 96% of the population who don't speak English!

[@Joe-gl8sr]

One thing I have noticed is that the folks in all of these cities and towns know I am trying hard… girls I have seen over the last couple of years ask me how my spanish has gotten better. I tell them Duolingo 😉 but it is more mutli-girl dating… but we will keep that our little secret. They try hard to understand then at some point we all get it and have a good chuckle over GringoJoe spanish.

[@ChineduOpara]

Now imagine Barranquilla, where the population doesn't even WANT to learn English AT ALL.

[@wayne7936]

@@Joe-gl8sr lol, tell them you have private tutors

[@michaelanderson4849]

@@ChineduOpara sounds like Barranquilla have the antibodies against getting their own Poblado. 😁

[@georgegil6587]

Awesome seeing you two studs together. You make a great team. Mr. Macia got to know my cousin Leo a few years back. Keep them coming

[@AKJoel]

Cheers George! We've already filmed another 3 episodes and have many more planned! Get ready!

[@johnnyquintero3124]

We all should be willing to learn the language of the place we move in, we have to adapt, the place does not have to adapt to us.

[@AKJoel]

100% agree - well said!!

[@sshaw1015]

Tell that to the Mexicans who live in America and live here for years and still don’t speak English

[@cheekeebandito]

I spent 3.5 yrs in Medellín.... you are right on with your observations ... I consider myself to be fairly patient , but Medellín really put that to a test .... I moved back to Canada two months ago .... Colombia is nice to visit , but living there is not for me .... thanks for the video !

[@AKJoel]

Yeah it's definitely not for everyone! Great place but can have it's challenges haha

[@andrewinspires]

Canada seems nice for 3 months out of the year.

[@user-fq4xd3lz5z]

Agreed lived 3yrs in MDE Why so long because during COVID they were open like MEXICO and I didn't want to stay in STATES because we're closed Plus it was on and off 3yrs Point is I shared my comments above saying thjs but it's only GREAT to visit 2-5 days After you will get BORED quick I liked the IDEA of saving money but reality didn't happen for me

[@frankkluz9787]

An old saying comes to mind ..... "all that glitters is not gold" - as I hear all this ! -- So far I have only heard all the positives and how cheap everything is - until now ! > A healthy dose of reality here just saved me a lot of time & money. = I really can't thank you guys enough. -- This old man in the US with very limited resources is very grateful ! -- Best of luck in all you do. 🙂

[@AKJoel]

Absolutely - the city isn't for everyone but for those that can get past what we mentioned in this video - you'll love it!

[@MedellinBuzz]

Thanks Frank, good luck to you too! Cheers.

[@kurrwa]

just wait 10 years and you will see how colombia going to be cheap like costa rica with all passports bros moving in masses 🤣

[@sartajaziz5930]

​@@kurrwaNot even 10 years, 3 years. Lots of men who struggle with women will move there and are already moving. It's going to be shit in the next. 3-5 years.

[@johannabeltran7123]

Opinions and sense of identity will always differ depending on where you are born. I do admit Colombia, my home country has a lot of problems but I lived in Australia for almost 10 years and never found the food to be that amazing now I live in Ireland and still miss our bland Colombian food. Our ajiaco dish, our bandeja paisa and other food that I miss but that foreigners find disgusting 😅. Again home will always be home no matter where you are from....

[@wayne7936]

Yea, I would put Australian and Irish dishes in the same division as Colombian food. Maybe a better upgrade is Mexican or Thai cuisine?

[@AKJoel]

Australian food is more or less rubbish - Meat Pies, Chicken Parma, Sausage in Bread. But what we meant is that Australia has had so much immigration for many years from Asia, Africa, Europe, South America etc. that the multiculturalism has resulted in so many diverse restaurant options - and the same can be said for LA, NY and London. Colombia doesn't have the same diversity of immigrants, hence the food isn't that varied. Also what is Irish food? Guinness? hahaha

[@johannabeltran7123]

@@AKJoel I prefer Australia. It's way worse here 😜. There's something called the Chinese that has nothing to do with Chinese food but they love it because it's their only fast food option aha I got to get used to it cause there isn't anything else!!!

[@johannabeltran7123]

@@wayne7936 agree I'm not good at spices but I guess that makes the difference and I was getting used to it but then I left. chicken curry is the closest to spicy here but I've heard it was the English who created a different type of curry I guess trying to copy the Indian style

[@joepaul4406]

Yes; only two flavor profiles in traditional Colombian food. Salt and sugar. Great food cultures have a history of immigrants coming from around the globe.

[@AKJoel]

Andrew actually said "salt" and "nostalgia" but that part didn't make the final cut haha

[@luzecheverri9161]

Not true... that might happen in Medellin where there the only thing they eat is beans and rice... however if you go else where Bogotá, Cali or Cartagena... the food is very good!!!

[@Bogotaeverything]

​@@luzecheverri9161Barranquilla has good food, too

[@nadicmark-4077]

for those who complain about why there's no mexican food in colombia...the explanation is very simple..there has never ever been a massive migration of mexicans into colombia therefore colombians are completely clueless about what mexican food is unless they been in mexico.

[@AKJoel]

Yup same reason why there's not really any good food from other countries either - except maybe Venezuela.

[@Amikeur]

Make sense, it is ignorance to expect that Mexican and Colombian culture would be exactly the same

[@klvAcosta]

Seriously, why would anyone go to Colombia to eat Mexican? 😂

[@timverba4830]

Regarding food, I find that Colombians use very lean cuts of meat and do not use the same levels of oil and grease in their cooking as in the US. Therefore, you will need sauces to add to the taste and to keep the meat from being dry. But, there are more restaurants that are providing European and US fares in a Colombian style.

[@SepulchreBrit]

This is bang-on. I just realized I had a go at Smile International here about how they never contact me about my next appointment! I should have watched this video first and chill 😂

[@AKJoel]

Haha you need to beg them to give them your money!!

[@Roguefinancial]

For your information, you don’t have to pay the tip here, it’s not mandatory, if it happens, deny it, they should ask you, and you should only give it if the service was good

[@AKJoel]

Yes, very true.

[@JackSmith-gv5yw]

I enjoyed staying in Medellin for a few months, I liked the vibe, climate, people (locals and foreigners), cost of living....but some of what you mentioned in your video does ring true. Lack of Spanish skill was a slight issue, local food could be a bit bland ( and thats coming from a brit!..lol) but the major downside was safety, yeah I get the pickpockets, and bag snatches but walking around as a tall white brit made me feel like a target, even though I went out of my way to reduce the risk. You hear about the stories of people having a gun held to their head and someone is demanding stuff, and I cant see this changing any time soon....it puts me off coming back, and for those who say places like EL Pablado and Laureles are safe.....No they aren't, thief's go where the loot is.

[@AKJoel]

We actually talk about this in an upcoming video, but yes unfortunately being a big tall white guy will make you more of a target for crime.

[@gregp7605]

Yes. I felt like a target and I did my best to blend in. People would comment (shout) about my blue eyes for example. I found it exhausting looking over my shoulder, avoiding lonely streets, parks, etc. and all of the many strategies to avoid trouble. For example, stepping into a store to use my phone.

[@karochemusic]

great video 💰

[@AKJoel]

Thank you! 😃

[@rahig75]

I love the video! Funny thing about the time. I'm black and Colombians make black people look good when it comes to time. lol I remember the first time I visited Colombia years ago and couldn't speak Spanish. I had an awful time! I came back 3 years later knowing Spanish and it was a huge difference in my experience. Also finding shoes if you are big. I'm 6'4 and wear a size 14 shoe. One time I had to literally take off my shoe and show the guy that was my size. Also it felt like all the music was the same. I'm from the states and been to Canada and Europe where you can find various types of music but not in Colombia

[@hernanruiz6683]

As a colombian living in the states, we also run into a lot of the same situations in America, All I can say is no country is perfect and no one is perfect, Colombia is not for everyone so if you guys are not happy then move. ✌️

[@AKJoel]

We are personally very happy! This video was more to educate people who are thinking about moving here but don't have all the facts. Keeping it real mate!

[@JulianMarin-jk7hk]

It's funny how you contradict yourself. challenging the guys when you say that Colombia is not for everyone... from the comfort of the USA. 😂😂😂 Obviously you will say that you left for the money, that is the only argument they have. Your final phrase was also a killer. It meant "if you don't like it, go away." in fact, that is the mentality by which many of the problems exposed in the video happen. If you don't like standing in line and waiting, then leave. if you don't like being robbed then leave. if you don't like being treated badly, then leave. In short, Colombia is better off without you. keep washing toilets in usa. Rude

[@hernanruiz6683]

Ok glad you explained that. 👍

[@MedellinBuzz]

Yeah, it's interesting how many of us Colombians will immediately go to "then leave" when they hear criticisms about our country, but when we're in another country and someone tells us to "go home" we get offended. I think the better approach is to hear the criticism, and try to work together to improve the country.

[@sshaw1015]

Why you getting offended… no where is perfect. You are exhibiting the same thing they are saying in the video that Colombians can’t take criticism. No country is perfect. They are just explaining the feedback of why people are actually leaving.

[@omarperezpulido2388]

Spitting straight facts

[@AKJoel]

Glad ya enjoyed the video!

[@Niles-Guy]

Enjoyed your content but any chance of doing a video in a different city (Cali, Santa Marta etc) or even the burbs or countryside & do a comparison ?

[@AKJoel]

I have a video in Santa Marta but I live in Medellin so have the most knowledge about this city - I don't really like preaching about places I know nothing about haha

[@andrewinspires]

I love Santa Marta and Barranquilla. I'm thinking about buying an apartment in one of those cities next year.

[@stevendrumm4957]

I have been to Medellin three times during the past seven years and I think that the food is decent there. Not great but not bad either.

[@AKJoel]

Could be worse for sure, but definitely could be a lot better! lol

[@dirk7816]

Learning Colombian Spanish is my number one goal when I return. I spoke enough to get by ordering food, general greetings etc. but not even close enough for conversational purposes even though I can usually figure out what the jest of an overall conversation is about if I pay attention.

[@Gierboo]

I think I’ve never seeing any Hispanic be on time for everything 😂😂😂🤦🏻‍♂️ great video!

[@AKJoel]

haha they literally do not care! Glad you enjoyed it mate!

[@Joe-gl8sr]

Everything you guys said is 💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯 correct

[@AKJoel]

We're knowledgeable guys mate!! 👍🏾🙂

[@juanvaldez7633]

While the things you list in the video can certainly be strong factors for a lot of people who choose to leave (particularly an almost congenital inability to learn Spanish which even for some gringos I know who have been here for a while remains appallingly bad), there are two other reasons not mentioned in the video I'd like to bring up: 1) visa laws changed late last year and despite the introduction of the digital nomad visa, other types of visas - particularly those in the migrant category such as the investor and pensionado - have become more difficult and expensive to obtain. Though I personally was successful in being issued my 2nd 3-year pensionado visa under the new rules, I'm seeing more and more tales of woe these days from people on Facebook whose applications are being rejected for one reason or another - thus necessitating their departure. The other factor - and this is probably the deal breaker for me and the main thing now driving my desire to leave Medellín - is the super high population density which leads to a host of other issues especially related to the excessive traffic, noise, bad air quality, upward pressure on housing pricing, and just a feeling of an overall lack of privacy. As an older retiree I don't really need all the constant activity and social stimulation, and am now looking into several smaller Colombian cities as alternatives in seeking a more tranquil and less hectic environment to settle down in.

[@AKJoel]

Yes well said, we could have gone on and one but for the sake of brevity we picked the biggest reasons

[@Joe-gl8sr]

Check out Santa Marta… has flights and small town vibe… with a mountain splitting the regular folk from the expats who bought condos looking at the coast.

[@juanvaldez7633]

@@Joe-gl8sr Santa Marta is one of the places I was considering, along with Manizales, Armenia and possibly Bucaramanga.

[@AKJoel]

Very cool place, much quieter and amazing nature but also much hotter!

[@Joe-gl8sr]

@@AKJoel From someone living in Miami, I love it hot!! As we say here in Miami: skin is in

[@ohno-zx4if]

The perfect weather in Medellin should outweigh any negative thing you dislike about medellin. To get perfect weather like this year round in the USA you need to live in Southern California I’m thinking San Diego. The only problem with San Diego is if your not a millionaire you’ll be living in a tent on a sidewalk

[@AKJoel]

Yeah I put in $1000 monthly max on AirBnb in San Diego and the only thing available was a van - no joke! 😂

[@GBU61]

Too many people won’t put in the work and research to understand life here then they act surprised when it is not what they thought it would be. Adjusting to how Colombians live and take an attitude of “going with the flow” then you have a chance to make it. As soon as I hear the complaints begin, I already know he has one foot on the plane ready to go back home. Most people don’t make it even two years, let alone stay for the duration. Most of the points brought up I am in full agreement, especially Spanish. Why anyone, would comes to a Spanish speaking country, and thinks he can do more than exist without, at least, a conversation level of Spanish, is in for a very difficult time. Any you men, who come for a serious girlfriend…unless you can hold a conversation in Spanish, she won’t stay with you out of boredom.

[@andrewinspires]

Very true my friend.

[@AKJoel]

"Any you men, who come for a serious girlfriend…unless you can hold a conversation in Spanish, she won’t stay with you out of boredom." Great advice - I would only add that she might stay with you to take all your money, but also dating someone else on the side who can speak Spanish hahaha

[@Gigaover]

Everything you said about customer service applies to many places in America these days due to the labor shortage. When I go to Colombia it's not much of a downgrade because customer service in my hometown has been horrid for the last three years.

[@AKJoel]

Wow really? Whenever I've been in the States it's almost been to the other extreme - where the keep coming to your table every 5 minutes to check if everything's okay.

[@harryrendel8130]

@@AKJoel It is that phoniness in the US (and Canada) that I find unpleasant. I therefore appreciate much more the Colombian service style (and, btw, I never found service lacking in Colombian restaurants, they may be a bit slower, but so much more genuinely nice compared to North America. On a related note: most restaurants (at least outside MDE) still ask VERY kindly if it's ok to add 10%. Now compare the (hoped for) 10% with the ridiculous tip expectations in North America. All other points you make I find spot on, though.

[@Gigaover]

@@AKJoel It depends on where you go in the states. Some restuarants are still pretty fast but 90% of the time they're sluggish compared to the way they were pre pandemic. I also experience the whole 15 people and one cashier thing in America.

[@nandodiaz2197]

@@AKJoel Tips are the salary in the USA , not in Colombia, that’s the reason my friend.

[@ArmyguyTravelsSports]

It’s not due to a shortage it’s due to laziness and a lack of caring for one’s job

[@juanesdavinci]

Great arguments Andrew, all my foreign friends complain about the punctuality here, lol

[@AKJoel]

It's so annoying, but unfortunately not much you can do about it!

[@Joe-gl8sr]

If I had a 2000 peso note for everytime someone is late…

[@dirk7816]

As far as crime goes I was never really a victim nor did I feel like one. When I walk I move like I have a purpose, keep my head on a swivel and stay vigilant to make sure I am not being followed. I did film a lot with my GoPro though but never took my phone out when walking. I dress like a backpacker so I don't draw attention to myself or exude a wealth status. When street vendors or solicitors try and stop or engage with me I keep moving and say just say no gracias amigo or amiga. I don't walk with traffic so it would be hard for moto robbers to target me and when in line I keep an eye as to who is around me. That's how I foiled a pickpocket in a pharmacy line. I knew what he was up to and addressed him and said "Tu primer amigo" and gestured for him to go inline in front of me, he immediately took off much to the amusement of the pharmacist. I had two young men trail be once going through a park but only one got close due to my rapid walking pace and when he got about 20' behind me I turned went into an aggressive stance and yelled "get the uck away from me". And he turned and went back to his lagging friend and they took off in the other direction. After that I bought a mid sized can of mace and started carrying it. If he had a gun I would have said "No hay problema amigo es tuyo" and given him what little money I carried along with my cheap local phone, my US phone usually stays at home. Both those incidents were in the El Centro area.

[@metalswordish]

Great stuff ❤

[@AKJoel]

Cheers Jason!! Glad you enjoyed it mate 👍🏾

[@unclejoe5236]

Andrew, what happened to the Colombian Podcast? Used to love it. Great show guys , keep it up 💪🏽

[@AKJoel]

Haha yeh Colombia Podcast was hilarious! Interesting fact: my first exposure to Colombia KZbin was that show.

[@andrewinspires]

it became an expensive hobby, lol. We're too busy with our businesses to focus on it. It was fun while it lasted. Also, my liver needed a break, lol.

[@unclejoe5236]

@@AKJoel funny thing is I found their channel after I found yours haha. Love the work bro keep it up 👌🏽

[@myles26]

My first time in Medellin was 5 years ago and finding good food without going to a "nice" was a mission. Thats not all of Colombia tho. Bogota and the coast are way better.

[@AKJoel]

Whats a "nice"?

[@tAMAdIVA]

Instead of describing countries as Third World, we could use more accurate, inoffensive terms such as "developing countries" and "least-developed countries" or "low-income countries". Colombia is classified as an upper middle-income economy and is one of Latin America's largest economies.

[@andrewinspires]

You are absolutely right. I'll remedy that asap.

[@AKJoel]

Sure, thanks for letting us know - noted for next time!

[@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]

[@mateolv3266]

There are many options of food, if you don't wanna search for them is another thing.

[@AKJoel]

Do you have some recommendations?

[@mateolv3266]

@@AKJoel Sure thing. For Asian food. 1.Tamagotchi ramen bar 2.Restaurante Cuon These 2 are in El Poblado medellin For traditional food 1.Donde andres (Cheap and tasty) 2. La matriarca (El poblado) 3.Hato viejo(In "Buenos Aires" neighborhood) Arab food 1. Full árabe medellin (in Laureles) 2. Restaurante La creta (Poblado) Now if you don't like any of that kind then blame your own palate

[@AKJoel]

Great tips! I've been to Hatoviejo many times, they have a great vegan cazuela.

[@Veneerscolombia]

hi i would like to talk with you about a bussiness idea

[@AKJoel]

Sure - please send your proposal to [e-mail] 👍🏾

[@andretigiovaneti7587]

Reason number one is not what you thought it was and your money is running out. Good video.

[@AKJoel]

I appreciate it mate, but I don't quite understand your comment. Can you explain?

[@andrewinspires]

You're absolutely right. A lot of people come here on vacation...want to live here longer...don't have a way to make an income, so they have to go back home.

[@SanjivKhullar]

@@AKJoel I believe what he is trying to say is that it is very difficult to generate income in Medellin - you are better off earning income from a foreign company - that would be a very good topic to cover in a video.

[@AKJoel]

I have a complete tutorial on making money online in my member's section!

[@ArmyguyTravelsSports]

What I do is this with regards to timeliness: I tell girls up front 15 mins late I order my drinks 30 mins late I order my food 1 hour late I learn And no second date

[@AKJoel]

That's a good system! haha

[@peterliggett5233]

Why are so many youtubers always commenting on Medellin and not Bogota? My girlfriend is from Medellin now lives in Barcelona Spain but going back to Colombia soon, has dual citizenship.Even she has no interest in Bogota, anyone know the reason on this cold shoulder to Bogota.??

[@AKJoel]

You summed it up perfectly in your last sentence when you said "cold shoulder" - foreigners aren't that interested in Bogota cos of it's cold temperatures and I suppose locals aren't interested in Bogota because I've heard Colombians from Medellin say many times that people from Bogota are "cold" and "unwelcoming"

[@Bogotaeverything]

​@@AKJoelPaisas with money come to Bogotá to visit and for work / business and they do enjoy the restaurants, shops and nightlife. Paisas with no money are rude to rolos when they visit Medellin and have never been to Bogotá themselves. They also think that there's competition between the two cities when no one here really cares. Rolos see Medellin as a touristy place with hot women and lots of gringos. A place to spend a week, tops.

[@jaybarr8098]

@@Bogotaeverything a good number of the men who come to Medellín don’t care about the country. They are here for sex - drugs - menú del día. You’ll be reading somewhere in the comments about the food being tasteless. What can these expats for 12,000 pesos a plate ?

[@GenERICexpats]

Hey cool collab here! I just arrived to medellin by motorcycle from Minnesota doing a motorcycle expat video series living in every country in LATAM for a minimum or 2 months in each. id love to do some collab work with both you AK Joel and Andrew Macia tellling your stories living in Medellin as a western expat. Ill be here in Medallo the next 2 months or so. Let me know what you think😊

[@AKJoel]

Hey mate, sounds like you've got a great adventure going! Unfortunately I'm too busy to take up any new projects right now so won't be able to do the collab with you, but best of luck with everything!

[@GenERICexpats]

@AKJoel hey no pressure! Free publicity in a fast growing new channel isnt for everyone! Suerte compadre

[@peterko8871]

They include a service fee, it’s not a tip if it’s on the bill.

[@AKJoel]

You don't actually have to pay that either they just slip it in hoping you won't realise

[@ivanvalentine3763]

Great video

[@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 :)

[@riansargento1670]

THis is so accurate. Im curious what Andrew does for a living

[@AKJoel]

He has an SEO business and he invests in real estate

[@MedellinBuzz]

Yes, I have an OnlyFans where I sell my feet pics. LOL, jk, I have a digital marketing company that caters to mental health centers in the U.S. and a few apartments here on Airbnb.

[@gemmel3197]

Thanks for the information guess I wont be visiting after all.

[@AKJoel]

No worries. You should still check it out and make up your own mind.

[@Amikeur]

I don’t get the points because for me this is the basics of the basics. If you go to Medellin to live like you did in the US without any sense of effort, stay home. When you immigrate in a country, learning the language is one of the basics. And Spanish is not the hardest to learn, if you make the efforts to speak and not afraid to make mistakes in the beginning you can develop fluency in a few months. It is funny because it is so easier than when poor people immigrate in a wealthy country (like latinos in North America, Africans in Europe or even South Asians in Middle-East).

[@orhankocaman5434]

Good video guys. Is there a bridge club in Medellin?İf you do not have an idea, could you pls search and provide the answer. Thanks in advance.

[@AKJoel]

My best suggestion is go to this link - linktr.ee/mdecommunity Under the Sports & Recreation section there's a Whatsapp group called Board Games. You can join that and ask in there.

[@shakurioguhebe8533]

CP Time is at least an hour. two hours is crazy!

[@AKJoel]

CP time?

[@OJLove5]

@@AKJoel colored people time 😂

[@Joe-gl8sr]

I have been to a lot of Colombian cities and pueblos. Medellin is the only one where I get the heebie-jeebies (like i am being watched) walking around… my spidey-sense never goes off in the other cities including Cartagena. For that reason alone, I kind of avoid Medellin altogether. 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@AKJoel]

I feel like Cartagena is the worst - I can't stand it there

[@Joe-gl8sr]

@@AKJoel I feel you… I do Cartagena in small doses lol

[@Gigaover]

@@AKJoel You have to be on guard 100% of the time because everyone is constantly trying to scam you. I feel like you can't trust anyone there.

[@AKJoel]

I hate it and refuse to go there unless it's for work and someone is paying me lol

[@Joe-gl8sr]

Notice that you guys hate it and would go there (if paid), but you arent worrying about your personal safety. 😉

[@ElJefe0719]

Simply put, Karens won’t fare well in Medellin 👍

[@AKJoel]

Haha if you like everything to happen exactly how you imagine it, then you're gonna have problems

[@andrewinspires]

[@ChineduOpara]

So my assertion that Colombia is a LDFG country isn't "crazy talk". I'm not alone in this assessment. Watch this video.

[@AKJoel]

What's LDFG??

[@ChineduOpara]

@@AKJoel Liars, Deceivers, Flakes, and Ghosts

[@AKJoel]

Did you make that up bro? I've never heard that before lol

[@ChineduOpara]

@@AKJoel 😁

[@Henry_Games360]

If Columbians are typically late when getting.tgings done, then I'm going to feel right at home. Because, I'm never on time when it comes to doing stuff. Lol😅. Thus, we're all going to have fun being late to stuff.

[@jameskoehler6038]

The on time thing is at least as bad as Thailand

[@KB-sg7tv]

Yeah people should research this stuff before they move to Medellín. Too many people go there just because they think it’ll be cool.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah that's why we make videos like this!

[@kevinreily2529]

It doesn't matter how nice the country is, how friendly the people are , how cute the girls are, the good weather, and low prices if you have to worry about CRIME all the time.

[@AKJoel]

The crime issue is overblown - anyone who actually lives here knows that.

[@jaybet3929]

As a fellow vegan I concur, the food's horrible. Their dislike for any sort of spices, needless to say that chili is considered deadly, makes it very hard at times for someone, who likes Asian dishes. I'm sure, you know all the decent vegan options in Laureles already, so at least in that part of the city, there are a few thumbs up. Must've lead a very sheltered life, because for many decades in Europe I've never been victim or witness of any crime that I can remember. Neither I or my family or my friends ever had any stories to share- decades! Now, fast forward to Medellin, witnessed broad daylight armed robbery, etc. in just a few months. Still letting it all sink in. When I go out of my home here at any time of the day, I'm more at danger of dying from boredom than crime.

[@AKJoel]

You're not alone mate - I never saw anything close to resembling crime in Melbourne either!

[@kennethh4904]

I am the opposite. I really like the grass fed, grass finish beef, and the organic eggs. I am a Carnivore and been eating large here.

[@GP-91]

Hey guys, would love to go to Colombia, I am a black woman from Europe. Can you please invite a woman expat to have some ideas how it could be? Thanks for your work ❤

[@AKJoel]

Hey! I made this video a while back about a female expat living in Medellin, you might find it useful! kzbin.info/www/bejne/p6OpgqOnnLSGa5I

[@buzzardskeet]

"... the best countries, US, Australia, UK ..." C'mon

[@AKJoel]

The quote makes no sense in isolation but we were speaking about diversity in food because of all the immigrants those countries have.

[@cfG21]

Well i cant think andy as an ex pat since he is another colombian. However why would people expect colombians to know english? Why cant they learn spanish? Third..i dont care if the cashier is talking to someone..i dot get bent put of shape like foreigners Fourth..tipping is optional..in volombia people get paid full wage..i tipped one time and they brought me the money stating it wasnt needed

[@AKJoel]

I'm sure Andy will respond to this himself when he sees it, but I believe he moved to the States with his parents when he was around 3 or 4 - then was raised there until the age of 29 - so that seems pretty American to me! Your questions are very logical and make sense, however you have no idea how many Americans come here and get upset that the locals don't speak English, also there's many expats who've lived here 5+ years and have made no attempt to learn Spanish. And you're completely correct about the tipping culture - locals don't tip here - it's just a thing that started once the Americans arrived and brought the tipping culture with them. Good points though!!

[@louisaklimentos7583]

So it is not so perfect after all . There is good and bad in every country . No country is better than another . It all comes down to what you like and what is your expectation of the place .

[@AKJoel]

Yeah exactly, we love living here but just wanted to make this video to show both sides and the reality of life here.

[@maf8199]

Medellin is a great place, and it has amazing people that I have worked there for two or three months each of the last five years, but I will not be returning. We need to say the truth about how dangerous Medellin is at the moment. If you look like a gringo, you cannot wear your wedding ring wear your Apple Watch take your phone out on the street. You have to be really careful in yellow taxis. You have to be so careful in any bar particularly in the tourist areas in case your drink gets spiked, and you cannot bring anyone back to your apartment, unless you know them really well. If you are in Poblado or Laurelles ( tourist areas) you can’t just have a few beers with your friends and walk back in a relaxed fashion to your apartment at 10 pm at night because you are at a high risk of getting mugged. People need to know that these are not the normal precautions that you take in any city. Medellin is dangerous and the police do nothing about it and until we recognise and say the real problem, then you are doing a disservice to the people of Medellin, and to the future tourists that should justifiably go to a great city.

[@AKJoel]

Interesting points you present! I completely agree that it can be dangerous, but so many many other cities, even in the US. My response as follows: 1. If you look like a gringo, you cannot wear your wedding ring wear your Apple Watch take your phone out on the street. TRUE - if you want to walk around wearing expensive things, Medellin isn't for you. 2. You have to be really careful in yellow taxis. Why are you taking taxis? Just take Uber - it's completely safe. 3. You have to be so careful in any bar particularly in the tourist areas in case your drink gets spiked. I've in fact never heard of someone who's been out having drinks with mates and been drugged and robbed, in 99% of cases this only happens on dates where guys are trying to hook up with "questionable" women. 4. You cannot bring anyone back to your apartment, unless you know them really well. TRUE - if you want to come to Medellin for easy sex, it can also be dangerous. 5. If you are in Poblado or Laurelles ( tourist areas) you can’t just have a few beers with your friends and walk back in a relaxed fashion to your apartment at 10 pm at night because you are at a high risk of getting mugged. Possibly TRUE - I never walk after dark - just take an Uber they cost $2. 6. People need to know that these are not the normal precautions that you take in any city. Depends where you're talking about and what areas of the city. In most of Latin America these precautions apply. I'm also 100% sure in some parts of the US it's not safe to invite strangers to your apartment, walk in public wearing expensive things or walk the streets tipsy / drunk at 10pm. 7. I have a video coming this Sunday that shows the crime stats comparing LA, New York, Chicago & Medellin and the results may surprise you...

[@RKELS69]

The food sucks in colombia no offense but it sucks.. I've traveled alot and yea no.. U HIT ON THE DOT MEXICO IS THE BEST BEST FOOD IN THE WORLD.❤

[@AKJoel]

Love Mexican food!! In my top 3 for sure

[@mascode1]

I agree that the customer service might not be effective in Colombia but the Businesses always try to be nice to you, different than here in the US were they treat you like they hate you for no reason. In Colombia if you are rude to a customer you must likely will get fired. Colombia's food might not have tons of variety but it is yummy In general the video is very informative tho!

[@sartajaziz5930]

It depends. Some staff are pretty rude. Some are nice. I've had a mixed bag. Personally I do think it's worse in Colombia than western countries but it's not as bad as other countries.

[@AKJoel]

It depends what you consider rude. Some may consider it rude when you're trying to get the staff's attention to pay the bill and they're just watching TikTok on their phone lol you'll see that a lot in Colombia 😂

[@Theofficaldannyalldunso]

The biggest issue for me was dealing with the 3rd world mentality/mindset. I felt I had to dumb myself down in order to associate with the locals. But yea #3 was a real test of my patience

[@AKJoel]

Depends what kind of locals I guess, there's definitely some that have a western mentality and are hustling

[@Jersey2WorldTravels]

You see the tension in the room build quick when he started talking about Latino and Black time. 😂😂😂😂

[@andrewinspires]

LOL I should have asked AK about Indian time.

[@AKJoel]

I mean I'm not familiar with the tendencies of 1B+ people, but my Dad always seems to be ready a hour early and my Mum is always still rummaging for things when it's time to go. lol

[@Jersey2WorldTravels]

@@AKJoel same men and women stuff all over the world lol

[@ThePosse89]

That's was a bit racist. Here in US, culture not race determines norms. In rural areas and in the South, life is often more laid back. In big cities, fast! You definitely show a lack of US travels if you think black and latin Americans are all laid back. It's a shame.

[@DJV94022]

Ima say this el poblado has a taco place and guess what those tacos are the best ive had and thats me eating real mexican tacos before in the states..even tho i never been to mexico tho

[@AKJoel]

Is that the one where you gotta walk down a few steps to sit down?

[@DJV94022]

@@AKJoel criminal is the place name you sit outside ina tent

[@jusayin3095]

That Blacks not being on time is more of a stereotype that shouldn’t be applied anymore as a generalization in my opinion. It’s funny in the comedy clubs but people are late in all races in the U.S.

[@user-fq4xd3lz5z]

I'm from the states. Lived in medellin 3yrs. Medellin svks all together It is FANTASTIC to visit 1-3 days if you work and looking to party But NOT live long term like I did High rent prices. Ex You get what you pay for It is CHEAPER then states but you get what you pay for Meaning it's CHEAP because it's HOT And NO A.C. No traditional amenities Hot shower for only 10 min Bugs everywhere CHEAP appliances SMALL fridges etc Medellin is MAJORITY studio apartments Your BED is in your kitchen And neighbors can SEE you bathing Plus Colombians are MONEY HUNGRY So it'll be cheap for a month then they will RAISE price Raised price 3X within 90 days to me × Food is BLAND x Too many CRIME towards tourist. Drugging tourist / robbing tourist is norm But if your LOOKING for a 2-4 day trip with perico × white SNOW x Prostitutes that will ROB and worse. But look better then 90% of Prostitute in USA and they are SUPER CHEAP And medellin el poblado is SUPER SMALL Meaning not worth staying long UNLESS your colombian like this guy or SPEAK good Spanish and basically like every thing I shared ABOVE

[@AKJoel]

Damnnnn where were you staying? Remind me not to rent through your real estate agent bro! 😂😂

[@MedellinBuzz]

This reminds me of that quote, "He that has been bitten by a snake is afraid of a rope." I've met many guys that came down here and loved Medellin, until something happened (usually involving a woman) and they got bitter and left.

[@BenitoEncuentra]

I'm currently searching for KZbinrs to collaborate with? (Probably more Bogota) Any interest?

[@AKJoel]

Maybe! Message me on Instagram @akjoel.films and we can chat about it 👍🏾

[@spirittravels.]

Main reason has gotta be it's just a big City in the middle of nowhere. And it's not a particularly beautiful city . Outside of the Centro, it's pretty bland.

[@AKJoel]

I've actually heard many people comment on how beautiful the city is

[@spirittravels.]

@@AKJoel By Colombian standards it is 😊

[@davidg4261]

@@spirittravels.nisiquiera la mas bonita or most beatiful is bogota, bucatamanga,cartagena,barranquilla 100% medellin is popular i’m colombian

[@andrewinspires]

Main reason, for any straight man, is the women. It could be fucking Alaska here, the nice faces and big booties will keep me warm.

[@KaiserBP]

Nah your friend is fucking hilarious 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@AKJoel]

Haha he's great value for sure!

[@ElJefe0719]

His BPT reference cracked me up 🤣

[@chrisd4222]

Good video but you were off-base on China immigrants. They are there with actual Chinese owners/workers. I know a few. There was one in Parque Belen and u will find a bunch dotted along La 80 between where it intersects with la 76 all the way down towards Exito Robledo.

[@AKJoel]

I've hardly seen any Chinese immigrants in Medellin, but maybe I just haven't been to those places you said!

[@andrewinspires]

So I have to travel to Belen or Laurles to meet these Chinos you speak of?

[@apacheslim]

Hey AK. I just got back from there and I noticed there was a lot of crack heads around Medellin. Is this a new thing?

[@andrewinspires]

Crack is not new here. It's called basuco, and it's been around for ages. The newest drug seems to be a degrated version of the drug 2C-B which the locals call Tusi. If you're talking about the homeless people on the street asking for money, yes, there are a lot more now in affluent neighborhoods because that's where the tourists are that give them money. Is that what you were asking about?

[@AKJoel]

I mean Medellin is a big place, which area are you referring to? I used to live in Poblado and I didn't notice that many around there but as soon as I moved to Laureles there's hoards of them...

[@apacheslim]

@@AKJoel el poblado. And on the highways. Everywhere I noticed people rummaging through the rubbish.

[@freedomriding2558]

Customer service is good I had worst service in France and the Czech Republic.

[@AKJoel]

Really? How so?

[@freedomriding2558]

@AK Joel I think service is more respectful and polite. France and Czech Republic they act like they have power and your annoying them. Kind of reminds me of service in south Italy people are warm and friendly but it's not a quick service, but I speak Spanish so probably easier for me.

[@andrewinspires]

You're not the first person I've heard talk bad about customer service in France.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah I second that - in France they will go out of their way to be rude. Colombians are never rude, just slow.

[@Joe-gl8sr]

There is a small chinese food chain i have seen in Baq and Santa Marta called… drum roll please… Long Hang

[@AKJoel]

Hahaha that's hilarious!!

[@Joe-gl8sr]

@@AKJoel I wish we could attach pictures… I would have added them

[@AKJoel]

I Googled it - www.longhangcolombia.com/santamarta.html LOL

[@Joe-gl8sr]

@@AKJoel That’s the place!! LOL

[@andredaughtry5217]

Hello, Please stop overgeneralizing about Colombians. You are speaking about Medellin and Paisas. You guys comments are very Medellin specific. There is great restaurant service in Bogota, Cali, and other cities. This is a conversation about Paisas

[@AKJoel]

On the coast the service and tardiness is even worse. I agree food culture may be different but some of the things are aplicable country wide.

[@Joe-gl8sr]

For you guys out there seeing other places: in Bogota, check out Salvaje and Cantina a la 15… awesome!!! And in Barranquilla, Miura and Noa… top notch! Cartagena: Qudres. And in Cartagena, Baq, and Santa Marta-> my fav pub/grill: Porthos!!

[@andredaughtry5217]

Hello thank you for your response and engagement, that is pretty cool. As for your comment, that is the coast, which is another specific region as well which is another region that has its own distinctive character. My only point is Medellin and Paisa culture is very specific, and unfortunately because of television has become the representation of the entire country. When you say Colombia, and your talking about things in Medellin, It is Paisa culture. I enjoy my life in Bogota after living in Medellin for two years. What a difference. I also have a place in Cauca (Popayan) which allows me to spend time in Cali as well. Very distinctively different places and attitudes. Paisas are way more sensitive about not taking responsibility and are overly prideful than other Colombians from other regions. And other Colombians know that about Paisas as well. Colombia is very fragmented geographically and culturally.

[@andredaughtry5217]

If I talk about Melbourne and say "Australians are like this' for example, that is a misrepresentation of Sydney and Perth

[@AKJoel]

I understand your point but in actual fact most Australians are the same wherever you go, be it Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane - our personalities, cuisines, lifestyles and accents aren't as varied as what you find in Colombia!

[@ohno-zx4if]

The customer is always wrong 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤪🤣🤣🤣🤪🤣🤪🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@AKJoel]

Hahaha yeh it seems like that sometimes! 😂

[@MedellinBuzz]

lol, the mentality is not only s the customer always wrong, but he's also a jerk. Things are getting better though.

[@pedrogonzales9202]

Lol…. And what “sort” of Spanish would that be?

[@AKJoel]

What do you mean?

[@pedrogonzales9202]

@@AKJoel Your interviewee stated that people should learn some "sort" of Spanish. My comment was said in jest. When a person learns a language to communicate, it typically isn't a variety or sort of that language, per se. You can learn a "sort" of Spanish if you focus on "slang", for example. However, that "sort" of language learning will in no way enable you to have a proper conversation. If he had said that people should learn "basic" Spanish, that would be more precise. But I was joking, really, and I will tell you why: I first came to Colombia in 1982. Although I had taken some classes, I still could not speak more than choppy, and I could not understand what was said to me. Leaning Spanish, for me, is one for the most important, influential things I have ever done. For me, it was like crossing a desert. I have lived in Latin America for many years now, currently in Nicaragua, and I am continuously expanding my ability. I joke because of the modern contextual implication of all these young people using apps and getting caught up with the excitement of the girls, understandably so. However, as you well know... you don't know what you don't know-- until you find that out, and in terms of Colombia, you definitely don't want that to be by waking up with a Scopolamine headache, to find that all your belongings have disappeared with last night's hot babe's foxy caress. When I landed in Medellín in 1982, Pablo was still running the place. I hadn't a clue what that meant. Fortunately for me, it was just a stopover on my way to Cali. Suffice to say that most people, it appears, don't realize just how important learning Spanish actually is-- and it isn't a casual thing. Not at all. So yes, in the end you do need to learn some "sort" of Spanish. That's right-the sort that works to communicate to the Spanish-speaking world, whether it is at the bar, or the beach or the DAS which is where I ended up, having to do quite a bit of explaining. When I was in Colombia in 1982-83 it was quite a bit different than now. Almost no-one spoke English. It was also quite dangerous. I learned a ton on that trip and leaned to talk myself out of serious trouble on several occasions. I was as naive then, as anyone nowadays, only without the smartphone. I also learned how important it was to master the language, and I did.

[@antoniodelrey164]

There’s Spanish and then there’s Paisa Spanish…learn Paisa Spanish if you will stay in Medellin.

[@AKJoel]

That's a good point - it's quite distinct

[@passportbro1]

😂😂

[@series9193]

Yeah let’s just go to another country where a different language is spoken but expect everyone to speak your language, make it make sense !!

[@AKJoel]

You'd be surprised how many gringos get mad that locals don't speak English lol

[@series9193]

@@AKJoel silly people I guess

[@andrewinspires]

I would say something, but my mom's been in the US for 36 years now and doesn't speak English. lol

[@millos83]

Costa rica is safer.

[@AKJoel]

Definitely

[@jimmiethompson5680]

Man you should have been a comedian!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@AKJoel]

Who, me or Andrew?!

[@jimmiethompson5680]

@@AKJoel Andrew but you set it up and he knocked it out of the park. Spot on with how we are on our on time!!

[@AKJoel]

You should check out the Colombia Podcast - Andrew has some moments of gold there - just imagine this exact energy but enhanced with 10 shots of liquor hahahahaha

[@socialmediasulk6868]

波哥大中餐很好吃😋

[@AKJoel]

Which restaurant?

[@batnest5]

I was supposed to come to Medellin in late September but have since decided nope. It seems like an absolute garbage place. What are its redeeming qualities?

[@AKJoel]

This is our 1 video talking about the negatives, watch all the others we've done explaining why the city is so awesome and then your question will be answered 👍🏾

[@clina1222]

Usa food sucks 😢

[@AKJoel]

I'm not American and while I will say their food is very unhealthy its also delicious haha

[@andrewinspires]

How can you hate biscuits and gravy, apple pie, hamburgers and hot dogs, Texas bbq ribs, New York and Chicago pizza, french fries, ice cream, donuts, fried chicken, chili, etc.? Shit, I'm vegan and still love all of that, lol.