5 Types of People Who Should NEVER Visit Medellin, Colombia

[@AKJoel]

✅ Get Your FREE Moving to Medellin Checklist here: medellinmasterclass.com/checklist 🌄More info on our Masterclass here: medellinmasterclass.com

[@ellebelle2507]

@AKjoel thanks for your video. Quick question. How do you pay 1500 a month when the earnings in Colombia are low? Are you talking about on a Digital Nomad or Freelancer salary with income coming from the outside? I saw that salaries in Colombia are quite low?!?! What is it like for the arts? I went to Colombia and I actually preferred it in the rural places with no phone, internet, news etc.... I am guessing not many ppl live rurally though due to job opportunities. Thanks, E x

[@Nicobs2k6]

Yooooooooo!! When I went to Medellín at the beginning of the year, what I would tell guys that heard about men being drugged on scopolamine by Tinder dates and stuff is simply: "You're not the Brad Pitt of your country, so stay humble. No woman is gonna fawn over you like that!! If you keep that in mind, you'll be fine."

[@AKJoel]

haha unfortunately too many guys don't wanna accept that they're not Brad Pitt 😂

[@johny9685]

Colombia is NOT a TINDER country. AJ is right. Let's be realistic: Colombian men look very good, they dance very well, they are at home - so why does a girl who looks like she's on the cover of Hustler magazine want to ...stroke the bald head of a tourist with a big beer belly, in shorts and flip-flops? In Colombia you don't get a warning - there is no difference in extremes, whether you get slapped or your head cut off - there is no difference.😁😆

[@AKJoel]

You're 100% right. On top of this there's too many idiots making content about "if you're a 5 in the US, come to Colombia and hook up with 10s" - this is what gives people the wrong impression and gets people killed.

[@johny9685]

@@AKJoel Exactly - Colombian women are not a bit naive Thais or Filipinas (with all due respect to these Asian women) . They are self-learning, extremely cunning, and beautiful women. I think that every guy can have a wonderful time in Colombia: 1) speak at least some Spanish, 2) have respect for this completely different world, 3) don't pretend to be a millionaire (Colombian women know very well that guys with a lot of money don't need to fly to Medellin or Cartagena- they will pick them up in Brickell-Miami, etc). 4. Meet women where you can meet safely hundreds of them: dance schools, language courses, etc. And certainly, listen to expats like you and your friend!

[@vinz300000]

​@@AKJoelso true

[@riqhte]

Thats why you dont go with flip flops tank tops & shorts if you dont leave there

[@bebop504]

Another important thing to note - most people from other countries are going to feel a bit restricted in Medellín (and in all of Colombia). You can’t walk around with your phone out. You really can’t walk down the street talking on the phone. You can’t wear nice watches or have nice things because you run the risk of being robbed. You can’t really invite friends/acquaintances to your apartment because it’s a security risk. You are constantly on high alert and you can’t just live freely / carelessly like you can in most other countries. This is important to keep in mind and it’s something that will take a toll on many people who did not grow up in Colombia.

[@salemrazak1099]

This is really valuable advice, I have never been to Colombia but I have been to Brazil 3 times. Its amazing yes, but once you're back home in UK for me, not watching your stuff and surroundings as much brings great peace as you move around

[@AKJoel]

Everything you say is 100% true. If anyone wants to do those things they should definitely avoid Medellin.

[@vinz300000]

​​@@salemrazak1099and Brazil is actually much more dangerous and with more crime than CO

[@MSmith-mb1ut]

You guys do a really good job with your channels. You're not youtubers trying to get rich. Youre just a couple guys trying to help quality people learn about your city. Thanks for the hardwork!!!

[@mrlouielou32]

They're doing this to make a profit but there's nothing wrong with that. They sell products dude. No one does this for free.

[@AKJoel]

Cheers Matt - FYI we do sell stuff but I posted near 100 videos before ever trying to sell a single thing lol

[@juanvaldez7633]

You guys nailed it with this one - both in identifying and in spelling out why these categories of people might not succeed or be happy here. Totally in accordance with everything you said. My own particular issues with the city fall squarely in categories 4 & 5 - I need more peace and tranquility than is typically on offer here, and as an introvert I very much value my personal space. With respect to these, looking back, I now realize that moving here in the wake of covid was very much "fools gold". With all the 'toque de queda' days and restrictions on movement around the city it was far quieter and peaceful - essentially "Medellín Light" - and when all this finally lifted it was like the floodgates opened (none of this is to minimize the hardships caused for many by the pandemic, but from a living standpoint for me it had its benefits). And then there's the frustration of your own dwelling never being a sanctuary where you can escape the noise of the city. This of course is not anything you take particular notice of when you're just visiting on vacation, but when living here full-time it's a different story. I think the only solution for me personally is to escape to a smaller city where these things aren't such a big issue. Very impressed by Manizales when I was there over navidad two years ago, so we'll see...

[@AKJoel]

Yeah the best thing is honestly many of these issues can be avoided by trying some other cities in Colombia as you said. There's more or less something for everyone!

[@LUISCRTAGNA]

I'm from Colombian Itagüí. Native, I like your videos Men.

[@AKJoel]

Cheers Luis!!

[@ceasetheway1624]

I live in sabaneta a high rise apartment 3 bed 2 bath balcony a couple of blocks from Mayorca mall. 2.3 million peso a month. All in with bills and food I’m at 3.2 million a month and then I usually spend about 1 million pesos a week. But it’s rare I spend that much. For I’m comfortable with about 1800- 2000 a month living in Medellin

[@AKJoel]

Yeah $1800-200- is an incredible budget and you can live really really well on that!

[@JohnSchroeder-dy4ih]

Your suggestions are very typical of travel to most foreign countries...good analysis

[@melissareece8656]

My single American daughter moved to Medellin 2 yrs ago and I am constantly worrying about her. She has an excellent job in the tec industry and makes a very good salary. The worst thing thats happened so far is she had her new Iphone boosted, which was a minor inconvienience. She loves it there and tells me I watch too much Narcos 😂

[@viajandomundo421]

Medellin is probably safer than many American cities. I have never heard of some crazy lunatic guy shooting a school or supermarket in Medallo.

[@AKJoel]

I have met plenty of 20 something females from the US living here permanently and loving it! You have nothing to worry about because I doubt she engages in any of the activities that are regularly getting people in trouble.

[@user-rw311]

If you don't carry an iphone around 98% of the time you won't have a problem

[@littleclownfrosty]

There's something incredibly ironic about a youtube channel that markets itself to "expats" talking about how expensive Medellin is now, especially in the real state aspect when the main reason our city is so expensive is because of expats and digital nomads! Talking about needing over 1k usd to live here when the average colombian monthly salary is less than 500 usd.

[@AlexanderDominisac-sg4xi]

Be honest, if there’s a limited supply of housing you think 10k gringos or 1 million Venezuelans affect availability & pricing more? The large majority of available housing does not have Airbnb potential / is not legally allowed to. Prices have gone up everywhere in the world & it is partially because of migration. The areas they’re referring to, namely Poblado & Laureles, haven’t ever been cheap to live in for the “average” Colombian. The average Colombian in Medellin, relative to population density, live near San Javier, El centro, and north towards Santo Domingo, maybe even Buenos Aires. Those areas are not being taken over by gringos, but other immigrants. I live in Sabaneta & I rarely see gringos here, I workout in Itagui, & I NEVER see gringos there.

[@littleclownfrosty]

@@AlexanderDominisac-sg4xi The ones with the biggest spending power will always affect it more, gringos coming here with USD salaries are the ones doing the biggest impact. Venezuelan immigrants affect our economy in other ways, yes, but they are not the cause of the gentrification of our city, they are forced to get their salaries in COP, they are competing in the same market locals are and they don't have any advantage over us, gringos do.

[@courtenaymckee7491]

I’m an 8 back home and live in Medellin on a budget of $1500 USD. 😛😎

[@jessasmrcd]

Haha when you start getting those messages ‘hola bebe’😂

[@AKJoel]

hahaha run as fast as you can!!

[@tradiavereen678]

Another great video! ALWAYS informative!

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@tradiavereen678]

@@AKJoel I will be there in less than 90 days.. Your videos are legit my go-to to stay excited!

[@tlsmack800]

Yeah , if you look for trouble in Colombia, you will find it.

[@robertmcmanus8465]

Just got back from medellin with my girlfriend. Had an awesome time. This is an excellent video. I couldnt agree more with all the points

[@AKJoel]

Glad you guys enjoyed your time here!!

[@kevinwillz6457]

In the intro you mentioned if a person is of a certain democratic but there was no elaboration during the video

[@Traveler-po3oe]

My biggest question is "What is the tax rate you guys are paying as legal tax residents in Colombia?

[@AKJoel]

We have all our tax info in our Masterclass - it's dependent on each person so it's hard to give an accurate figure.

[@willdegra317]

7:10 Actually out of all Latino countries I’ve visited, Colombia makes the best and most consistently good burgers. Nowhere else came close

[@AKJoel]

Fair point lol I can't imagine how shitty the burgers in the other countries are then 😅

[@tombernard4612]

Hello Joel and Andrew from RAINY Vancouver Island ... Once again great and very accurate tips for living in Medellin. Just got back to Canada after spending two years there in Paisa central" .... and in contrast I think I'm gonna have to start making videos for Colombians moving here...lol.. Everything you just said but the opposite! Too quiet, no chaos, boring, perfect for introverts... People profusely apologizing if they come within your 2m personal space as if they bumped into you, and I'm serious about that... Anyhow cheers and I'll be staying tuned! Van Isle Tom ....

[@AKJoel]

I think that'd be a great channel mate - there's definitely a lot of Colombians who'd love to move to Canada.

[@va9454]

Hi , Unlike some KZbinrs who are just fear mongering about Medellin , you are very realistic and your presentation is cool. As single man coming to Medellin in a couple of month for the first time for few weeks. Planning to stay around Lleras Park. Any suggestion? Thank you.

[@bebop504]

Um, people are not fear-mongering, they are trying to rightfully warn you. And if you stay in Parque Lleras, you should not hang around that area at night. That area and those clubs in Parque Lleras are the number one place where prostitutes and criminals look for their next victim. Going there at night is literally walking into a lion’s den. That’s where Colombian women find extranjeros to drug them and set them up. You should be extremely careful and do not go to those clubs in Parque Lleras. Just join a barhopping tour with one of the local hostels. You’ve been fairly warned.

[@AKJoel]

Thanks for the comment mate - I'm not sure about Lleras - I avoid that place at all costs and have never stayed close to there haha

[@user-xz7fk4ou5k]

@@AKJoel Hey Joel mate, Im Aussie too, nice to hear you're happy over there. Can you tell me - between Bogota & Medellin, which is the less sketchy of the two if you are intending to mind your own business? Im defs not going for the women, im too old for that nonsense - but i do have a few medical issues which need attending to, and my pain meds are freely available otc in colombia ( bodys fucked - ex military)

[@MrStrocube]

I had to laugh about the Mexican food comment! 😂 It’s so true, Colombians are pretty much clueless when it comes to Mexican food. Hell, I couldn’t even find a decent margarita in the whole city. You can find some excellent burgers, but you have to search them out. Those damn burgers they sell on the street are about 90% shredded lettuce with a paper thin patty, ugh. Yes, Medellin roars 24/7. No lie. It’s too much for me long term. Done with hustle culture; it’s what I am trying to escape. Thinking I might buy a flat someplace like El Retiro. Small town living is more my style right now.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah I'm not sure if I want to stay right in the city long term either - it would be nice to have a house in Rionegro and split time between there and here. I like the idea of having a bit more space and a backyard etc.

[@BestFriendOfJesus]

Lots of good info and funny 😂

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed mate!

[@budgetdreamtravel1283]

Another great video guys! Some people just don't get it. When you travel to a foreign country you are immersed in a completely different culture. If you haven't done your due diligence and if you're not prepared to acclimate and accept the differences stay home. I'm 70, retired and currently live in Thailand. While being an extremely safe country I'm still street wise from growing up in a tough neighborhood in Detroit, and educated enough to enjoy everything while always steering clear of potential trouble and scams. If you like to drink, be loud, boisterous, you know the typical young and stupid, you place yourself in harm's way. If you trust the conn of dating services and the pervasive predators who fish for suck*rs, you deserve what your stup*d a** gets. If your young and Lilly white you are a target from the beginning in any Latin country. If you're not handsome and outgoing the booze and your money dosen't change anything. These guys are very nice how they explain everything. Great advice always.

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed the video mate! You make some great points.

[@phenri4809]

I've just spent 4 months here and have blown through 20K USD but that is blowing and going and living in a 2k a month apartment. 1 a week I have a $100 meal and drinks. Have a personal trainer at $200 a month Running 3-4 chicas and rotating them out as they get to complacent I have lost about 30 pounds and picked up a bunch of muscle. Once I settle down I feel I could live here on 4K USD a month and still have the sort of fun I want to on a regular basis

[@icba9292]

You say 1,500 to live on, but what about as a tourist staying at a hotel etc?

[@AKJoel]

I just made a video about this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/apKsi5SJfKasaJY

[@KerryBuchanan]

I wish I could find a couple of guys doing this same type of podcast for Bogota

[@AKJoel]

I think the expat community is much bigger in Medellin so that's why you don't see many expat content creators in Bogota.

[@alencelic]

Room cost like 100 bucks a month, meal was like 3 bucks breakfast and 4 for lunch. For 500 is doable if you cook and share apartment

[@AKJoel]

Room is possible, but apartment no way. Even then a room for $100 in Poblado isn't possible.

[@alencelic]

@@AKJoel yeah poblado definitely not

[@spirittravels.]

They are not talking about renting a cheap room, but having a life as good as, or better than your home Country.

[@winnipeg007]

First time I was in Medellin was1996 You are correct with your comment people think the women are naive but far from that they are cunning smart and beautiful and they use all those assets to the fullest if man is not prepared he could get hurt

[@AKJoel]

Yeah absolutely - they know who's stupid enough to take advantage of lol

[@cyrilmadrid1]

Good idea that of having a personal assistant deal with locals. How does that work when you dont need them full time? Are there people who you can access occasionally when needed?

[@AKJoel]

I only use my personal assistant on a task basis whenever I need something done and I pay her by the hour.

[@kasramoradi3632]

AK drop the digital nomad/ finding remote jobs guide vid bro

[@AKJoel]

Just posted on my wall - you can cast your vote there!

[@JohnHosko1]

FYI, getting a 404 error when trying to download the guide.

[@AKJoel]

It's working on my end, can you try and refresh the page? medellinmasterclass.com/checklist

[@mawkishdave]

What would you feel is the good budget if you buy a apartment? You said the $1,500 and that had rent in it.

[@AKJoel]

I was factoring in $800 to rent in Laureles - so call it $500 - $700 if you don't need to pay rent.

[@OdooclassVideos]

Learn some spanish before you come. If you come and dont know any spanish you cant possibly experience what Medellín is really like.

[@user-wq5mb7zo7o]

I LIVED IT UP IN Colombia for 10 years and Medlline for 4 years I wint crazy hard and the Police were good to me. I spent 5 hours in the holding cells weeklee. 😅😅😅😅 Nelson Boy!!

[@AKJoel]

LOL you crazy

[@michaeldominguez2960]

At least you’re keeping it real now I know why they say gringos go back home

[@AKJoel]

haha there's definitely certain types of foreigners that Colombians absolutely despise

[@MrElwoodBluez]

Pretty sure I saw your apartment from a rooftop patio 😂😂😂 que chévere Poblado 🎉

[@AKJoel]

Must be Andy's apartment you're talking about? Cos I don't live in Poblado haha

[@iimerjetzt101]

I just stayed in Medellin for 2 months to check it out as a new home base, but I was so happy to be able to leave again in the end. There are basically no nice larger squares or green spaces inside of the city, and access to free nature needs quite a bit of travel. One feels enclosed, nearly claustrophobic when used to European cities. Secondly, women here are the most unreliable in the world, and I have lived in more than 12 countries and so have some perspective on this. Many simply do not show up to dates, or stick to any commitments made. They quickly call anyone 'amor' but then act totally disrespectful, while I was always a gentleman to them. Colombians seem to have a lot of prejudice against the 'priviledged white male', and view any white single dudes with disdain who are just sextourists with drug habits in their eyes. Also, if you want to live a European kind of lifestyle here shopping at supermarkets and eating in nice cafes, you spend the same as in most European countries. Sure there are great things about Colombia like some of its classical music, its biodiversity and the good manners (while they are in front of you!) of most people, but in the end most Colombians cannot stand so called priviledged white guys. It is a form of racism that has been growing in all Southern countries for a while. 20 years ago this was not the case. People are becoming less tolerant in general.

[@vivahernando1]

Most of Latin American literally worships white guys. Do you speak Spanish and/or are you introverted?

[@AKJoel]

Sorry you had a bad experience but from what you're describing it seems like you've only visited Poblado. If you've been to Laureles or Envigado, there's plenty of green spaces there. Hikes are accessible in 30-45 mins via Uber. Also the only place that you'll find things priced on the same level as most European countries are in Poblado. Even there you can get a great lunch for as low as $5. I agree about the fact that women are unreliable, but that's just Latinos in general hahaha

[@tx6723]

I think it's because the US never really wanted to help Latin America even though they are technically one of the same cloth they never invested. Which is a Latino living in the US realizing our history is actually kind of surprising to me but what happened to their native population here in the US. The US just wanted to hide it all it seems. Secondly they also don't like black guys going there. American black men have some of the worst attitudes. They're just going there for sex greedy they want anything but a black woman. And then disrespect the men

[@DanielAraya-fp8fk]

I have plans to stay here a week then return in September to Medellin with my cousin who wants to buy a restaurant with me. We are Chilean/Canadians. 43 years in Toronto Canadá. Looks like a raining week. Any plans for the weekend? Un gusto saludar te.

[@angelaatehortua7437]

Sorry for the loss. Its Colombia no “U”

[@AKJoel]

When did I spell it with a U? lol

[@jameskoehler6038]

Mañana does not mean tomorrow, It means not today

[@AKJoel]

It means in a month, but maybe never 😂

[@salemrazak1099]

Is Medellin a good city for food? Is local cuisine and otherwise nice? Obv subjective, but one thing i really enjoy when travelling is eating great food

[@AKJoel]

I don't think anybodys coming to Colombia for the food haha better off heading to Mexico 😅

[@salemrazak1099]

@AKJoel hahah 😆 Mexico is on the list too but good to know. Thanks AK

[@GDBMedellin]

Is rappi acting weird for anyone else. Doesn’t have the 11 min or less option?

[@AKJoel]

Yeah I heard Rappi Turbo was down for a while - mine worked yesterday though.

[@GDBMedellin]

@@AKJoel I’ve been trying to use it for a week. Good to know they are resolving the issue.

[@viajandomundo421]

I love Medellin, and can understand/agree on all the points made in this video. You want to have the best of both worlds? Move CLOSE to Medellin, but not Medellin itself. I was in GUARNE a couple of days, and liked all the villas in that small town around 35 minutes from Medellin. I've heard Rio Negro is nice too. If you move to Laureles/Poblado/Belen/etc...... A lot of traffic, noise, and people. If that's not your thing. Don't move there. Also, Paisas know about money. Don't think you can show them a shiny object and they'll fall for you.

[@AKJoel]

Rionegro is great for a short getaway, but for someone who likes a lot of socialising it may feel a bit isolated. But definitely an option for those that want to escape the crowds and noise!

[@viajandomundo421]

@@AKJoel You are right. But if you want peace, quiet, nice weather... then outside Medallin is the place to be. If you want socializing, shopping, active nightlife, etc. You have to be in Medellin, Laureles/Poblado, but it comes with noise, traffic, congestion. Perhaps Envigado is a better choice. But it's a bit expensive nowadays.

[@trainwreck3697]

Ah Guarne is so charming, shoutout to Juan at the finca at Hotel Castillo

[@NM-it2vo]

RE: budget travelers. Totally inaccurate. Rent at my first studio in Medellín was circa $400 or less every month. Totally self-contained, small yet functional studio, great view, clean, super duper duper convenient location. Very untrue that $1K is stretching it. You guys may have some other agenda for saying that, don't know, but simply inaccurate.

[@NM-it2vo]

Also, FYI -- this was true as of Dec 2023 - March 2024. I've since moved on to other locations and rates are still very convenient. There are plenty of options here and it's misleading to suggest there aren't.

[@santo9032]

Daaamn I pay $1500 alone just on rent in South Florida… 🤯

[@AKJoel]

Yeah it's crazy when you compare the cost of living with the main cities in the US!

[@boblimits753]

Man, miss going back. Spent a week in Guatape finca in October. Now stuck in Dallas TX 😄🍔 You guys are spot on.

[@AKJoel]

I don't know why I said Dallas, TX but that just came to me in the moment LOL

[@elonmusk9869]

Why do you guys talk down on backpackers? Lol you’re not some big shot tech exec or a Wall Street banker either

[@AKJoel]

I like backpackers - I spoke positively about them in depth on our latest live stream. I was actually a backpacker for about 2 years before I got to Medellin :)

[@irish.marketer]

That's a shocking amount of foreigners to die in 1 city in 1 year. I'll tick Columbia off my travel list.

[@JWinch]

I believe the patience thing, but one question about the Mexican food... There's a standalone building (or shack depending on your POV) on Ibagué's golden mile which has a name that clearly says it is a Mexican restaurant. But they have no horchata. Is that reasonable? (it's easy to make and all the ingredients are readily available)

[@AKJoel]

You should go and tell them and see what kind of response you get 😂

[@JWinch]

I did. Since it was not the owner, the person just shrugged. Which follows the "I don't care about customers: as long as I follow the rules I keep my job and stay out of abject poverty" rule of business in poor Latin American countries. ;-)@@AKJoel

[@mapainter67]

I've been in Laureles for 3 weeks now and truly enjoy it. I would enjoy it .ore, if I spoke Español. Google translate helps a LOT! I've been to Poblado but too many people, traffic and potential for problems. I have met a couple ladies..not pay for play..but I'm also very outgoing. Trule enjoying this beautiful city!

[@AKJoel]

Keep up with the Spanish - living in Medellin and getting the chance to speak to locals everyday is a great way to improve super quick.

[@plugchapman]

my cost of living in Atl is $3500 on the low end, I'd live like drug lord down there LOL

[@AKJoel]

Wowzers!!! $3500 😲

[@MyKeeP81]

lol i live in nyc mine is like $4,500-$5,000 a month

[@thefamousdave7484]

$10usd My Ass …

[@vangdavid2]

My friend Tou Ger Xiong was just kidnapped and killed about a week ago in Medellin. He was lured by a girl who led him to gangsters. Tou Ger was a humanitarian, activist, comedian, and well respected by the Hmong community worldwide. He fought hard for justice, but also partied hard. His weakness was attractive Columbian women. We are all mourning his loss. Be careful out there everyone. Always have a travel buddy and meet in public places. Don't do dating Apps. I wish he saw some of your videos before he went over there.

[@ImionsaeXwb77]

He should of watched this cause #2 was spot on..

[@AKJoel]

Sorry for your loss - hopefully others can learn from this story.

[@phenri4809]

Sorry for your friend. COLOMBIA doesn't have a U in it.

[@johny9685]

Let's face it: it is absurd to talk about Medellin and especially the city center in "economic" terms! If you want to live in Monaco or Dubai, you simply have to be wealthy! Otherwise, it is complete nonsense. On another note: Medellin is worth any amount of money. But it is not a destination for backpackers or "economy class passengers". "No money - no honey "

[@MetodiSpasov]

Exactly

[@AKJoel]

Another good point - the cost of living is ever growing but it's still 3 to 4 times cheaper than the US.

[@giorenaud9657]

😁👍👍👍

[@AKJoel]

Cheers Gio!

[@bluegtturbo]

Let's be honest.. Guys come to Medellin for the same reason they go Eastern Europe etc... Yep.. The women. But paisas are savvy and if you want p***y you'll have to pay for it, directly or indirectly.. Trust me, been there many times, and I tell you... Money talks

[@tomix3568]

Lol telling guys who are a 5 in the US that they'll be a 7 in Colombia isn't going to discourage them...🤣

[@AKJoel]

😅 good point...

[@user-rw311]

Living off 500$ a month 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@AKJoel]

Lol exactly...

[@rafaelrodrigueziiceo97]

Funny how you don't recommend "Medellin" but you're wearing a shirt that says "Medellin" Lol.

[@AKJoel]

We recommend Medellin to everyone except those people on this list lol

[@user-ov9eu4gx3z]

Your teeth are so perfectly white and straight, did you ever have dental work done in Colombia or would you recommend dental work in Colombia?

[@AKJoel]

Thank you! I've actually never even had my teeth profesionally whitened, I just use Colgate Luminous White daily and seems to do the track lol. To answer your other question, lots of foreigners fly to Colombia to get their dental work done. The quality and price is really great here 👍🏾