Why Foreigners Are Leaving the Rat Race and Moving to Colombia

[@Grateful4toast]

I moved to Fusagasuga colombia almost 4 years. I was Canadian. I never want to go back. I got both of my hips replaced in Bogota. Getting my last Colombian Visa was way more stressful than my hip surgeries.

[@hubaldovasquez82]

Completely agree, after 9 years in US, I’m now planning to move down to Colombia, I’m investing in Medellin, I’ve been able to buy apartments from 40k dollars, I just need to make sure I’ll have an income around 2k-3k dollars monthly (around 10millions Colombian pesos) enough to have an amazing life in Colombia and I won’t have to work anymore. Sounds sooo amazing!!! Btw, living in US, too much money is never enough, you’ll always want more and more and you spend your life just making money to buy stuff that you don’t need, it’s so stupid!

[@andrewexplorez]

Yessir, that's an awesome plan!

[@AKJoel]

Yeah mate if you're making 2k-3k a month you'll be living incredibly!! Excited for your move to Medellin, you're gonna love it!

[@Eastbaypisces]

Seriously tho

[@MetodiSpasov]

Completely agree with everything. In the process of moving to Medellin full time . Tired of the Matrix , back in Atlanta.

[@AKJoel]

Great move, I'm happy for ya mate! Life is way too short to live it in the Matrix!

[@andrewinspires]

yeah, f*ck the matrix. Take charge of your own life, and do what you really want to do in life. Big ups from Medellin!

[@justiceforall3973]

Wish I didn’t just buy a friggin house in the expensive northeast of the US! Wish I had found this desire to move the F out of the US before I got a house! My hands are cuffed for awhile 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@boblimits753]

Selling a house is no biggie, are you married with kids? That’s when your choices are very limited 😟

[@Lucidexplore]

You guys make the best Colombian related content on KZbin, I really connect with all yours and Andrew's content. I've been living in Medellin, Colombia for 6 years and have been telling folks back In Toronto literally everything you all said; now I'll just send them this video. Love the content, keep it up!

[@andrewexplorez]

Thanks my friend. Yeah, it's a shame that some people will go through life without visiting a place like Colombia. FYI my business partner is from Toronto too. Great people! Up the 6.

[@AKJoel]

Thanks mate! Really appreciate it, we've been working really hard to come up with the best content and provide real value to our viewers, so it's great to receive these types of comments :)

[@kevin6588]

I’m from Toronto as well, thinking about coming down to Colombia, it would be great to connect via email or something, would love to pick your brain. Do you have Instagram?

[@Niles-Guy]

Midwesterner here and this country is too fast , all about clout, money and greed. Not to mention the high cost living , high taxes and unfriendly people. I prefer a slow pace lifestyle of spending time with friends & family with lower cost living. You spoke the truth especially about Netflix and getting smashed 😂

[@AKJoel]

Haha that's what I hated so much, Netflix and living for the weekend - what a horrible life !

[@davidstrumsky7012]

@@atmosphereoasis9564 Absolutely right about "don't move to a city because it seems like all cities around the world are just as bad as america." That's the real key.

[@CryptoNerd91]

Well said. Europe is pretty much the same. Having lived now in europe for a year now you see most of the people smoking e-cigrattes and looking depressed. No sunny weather just rains all the time. Going to pack my bags and move to philippines next year. Colombia will be for sure on my list in a few years. South america is a fascinating place

[@AKJoel]

Yeah I don't know that much about European culture so that's for your insight - e cigarettes, depression and rain doesn't sound like a great life!

[@haroldnunezhn]

You guys are 100% correct. I plan to retire in colombia in 2 years am 60s am colombian but grew up in the USA and all I do is work

[@andrewexplorez]

I hear you my man, we'll be here. Hope you're having a great Sunday!

[@AKJoel]

That's exciting! Life is too short to work and die! Good on you!

[@mikeyy425]

Im here (pereira)... and totally agree. It frees your mind up to be more creative, explore passions, focus on relationships, take more risk investment wise. Money is desired here yes, but its not the end all be all like the US.

[@AKJoel]

I've experienced all the benefits you said and I love it. I never would've been able to do all that back home since all my time was taken up working.

[@gabrielpreciado5699]

As a local, give a chance not just Colombia, go travel anywhere, stay a few months and see if it works you. My experience living here is chill. I’m senior developer working for a us company remotely. I earn really well and I still lived with my parents (the best roommates I would find) there’s no shame in that here. I would move with my girlfriend next month in an apartment already pay off. Transportation, who doesn’t want a brand new car? But for me it’s not a deal breaker, I would use my beater or well commute by bike. Even so, if I get a new car I would continue using my bike. My ambitions lies in being a good dev and good writer. But in Colombia, you can be in the rat race as well, new house and car but people won’t expect you or culturally won’t pressure you to have it. Greetings from bogota

[@andrewexplorez]

Gabriel, I love it. Thanks for your insight. Saludos desde Medallo.

[@AKJoel]

I think your last sentence was the most profound, it's possible to be stuck in the rat rate but culturally people won't pressure you to do that. Whereas in the US and other countries they will lol

[@nathancasey7712]

Dont get me wrong im completely in agreement with you guys as someone whos lived outside the states and wants to longterm. But the thing is, its the same for most people in colombia, brazil, thailand etc. Except they actually work even longer hours for less pay then us in western countries. So the only people who really get these benefits are people who come from a more economically advanced country. Now you can say these cultures are more family oriented etc which is a good point but at the end of the day, these societies are set up the same work monday to friday(sometimes even saturday/sunday) and look forward to going out on the weekends, getting drunk, partying etc.

[@andrewexplorez]

That's absolutely true. The great part of being an immigrant, and having dollars is that you can help people here. The amount they contribute to society is up to each individual, but most people I know, hire local people whether it's as a cleaning lady, or employees for their businesses, so, regardless, living here could be a win-win for both the immigrants and the locals.

[@AKJoel]

Hey Nathan, my channel isn't from the point of view of locals - I definitely understand their plight but I make videos for foreigners who are sick of their lives and want a way out.

[@billyhughes805]

@@AKJoel That' you have to tell some of this shows why there are 'not for human consumption' labels on bottles of bleach in you know where 🤣

[@cristianloquesea]

​@@andrewexplorezpero usted esta hablando de un nivel local y hasta de un sector, ya si hablamos de la economia de un pais, la situacion no cambia para las personas que trabajan casi todos los dias, no se trata de hacer favores, se supone que las personas prestan sus servicios no estan trabajando gratis, el tema es mas complejo y esta lleno de grises.

[@nycrypto_investor]

Great insight gentlemen! I'm a NYC resident and you described exactly how I was living for many years.

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed it and happy we could show you there's a different way!

[@nycrypto_investor]

@@AKJoel Keep up the great work! 👍🏼

[@azzangoeting7691]

dropped my software engineering job in holland 6+ years ago that was paying €120K per year, started with a COP 7 million per month fixed local job in Medellin, and was able to build up earning more than ever before but then from within Colombia. There are so many software engineering jobs you have access to when in this time zone, while surrounded with a great climate/culture/low cost of living. 😁

[@AKJoel]

I love reading comments like this! It's entirely possible to earn well from remote working jobs, you just have to start low and work your way up. Unfortunately most people don't want to do the hard work part and want someone to immediately pay them $10k a month for doing nothing lol - well done mate!!

[@VernonEmerson-w8f]

You shouldn’t knock the United States too badly, however! It is still the greatest country in the world always has been, and I would imagine it always will be. There is much good to say about the United States of America and I’m very proud and glad to be an American citizen!

[@AKJoel]

I'm not sure about the greatest country in the world (I'm not American) but I do love to visit!

[@ramonsantiagojr]

This is the best and most meaningful video I've seen in my life. I became an instant fan.

[@AKJoel]

Loved reading this comment! I actually posted it on my Instagram story 🙂

[@andrewexplorez]

Thanks ramon, you're awesome! 🌟

[@JujuandLau]

My partner and I are in the process of creating a hybrid life both in the US and Colombia! 6 months in each country to be able to spend time with our families and save money.

[@AKJoel]

That sounds amazing - you're gonna love it !! 😊😊😊

[@cyril361]

I’ve been thinking about this and calling my mom almost every day just saying I have this unsettling feeling in my chest. I’m a great guy respect everybody and still have trouble meeting people because of the non-walk ability and the culture that we have set in place. Some of the happiest moments in my life was when I was in Mexico and in Columbia I would love to have a chat with you guys to see what more insight you have.!

[@AKJoel]

Hey Cyril, for sure we'd love to help out. You can schedule a time to chat here! medellinmasterclass.com/book-call/

[@ChachoTrades]

Sup guys.Veteran of the USMC on 100% disability here. That's $3600 a month untaxed for life, it increases as the years go on actually. I've been working a lot of OT for the last 8 years. The cost of living in LA is just insane and I don't feel it's worth the money after 50 hour work weeks. I've been watching your videos, and other channels, and doing a lot of research on Colombia and have decided to move there for 6 months in 2025 to test it out, but from what Ive gathered from months of research, im going to like it and not want to leave. My question is, how does the government moving towards communist state affect us Americans living there, if at all? Do you guys ever see that becoming a problem in the near future (5-20 years) thanks for your time, love the work you guys do for us on shedding light on this beautiful country.

[@AKJoel]

All the government shit has absolutely no impact on us at all - it's just noise. if anything changes we'll update you. Btw you're gonna live like a KING on $3600 a month here, congrats!!

[@patrickknox1036]

Some of us are in the pre retirement category, finishing putting the kids through college, planning a downsize in monthly expenses but living nicely in Colombia. Party scenes aren’t the need, but nice areas are sought after. Dating is completely different and daily life is slower paced

[@AKJoel]

Exactly - I see more and more of this demographic moving to Medellin!

[@MAFIANAGAMING]

I just can’t find a work at home job,I already have a girlfriend there but I can’t leave till I find that job…I’m ready to leave the USA asap

[@AKJoel]

Yeah, finding a well paying remote job is the hardest part. If you need some help with this you can book a call here: www.akjoel.com/consultations

[@azzangoeting7691]

change your linked in to Colombia as a location, you will be approach by jobs that are remote allot depending on your type of work

[@Jes1919]

At 20, I have no interest in joining the rat race and that hell . Getting my cybersecurity degree next year,and then plan to leave by 23-24. I have Israel, Morocco, Colombia, and Philippines as places to possible settle down in.

[@AKJoel]

Amazing that you figured that out at such a young age, well done mate! 👏

[@MedellinBuzz]

Bro, I envy you. At 22, I was sitting in prison. You've got a great head on your shoulders.

[@MsPriyaLal]

Hey Joel, When I visited colombia I noticed the workers I encountered at the stores and hotels were working like 6 days a week!! Do you notice locals there have a work work all the time life vs the expats ?

[@juanvaldez7633]

That's the ironic part of it really - people in regular jobs here in Colombia work insane hours - a 40-hour work week is practically unheard of. Maybe that's why they party so hard during their rare time off...

[@nathancasey7712]

Yeah Colombians have it worse than westerners. Not only do they get paid less per hour, they also have to work more days/more hours per day. They say many Americans are working 50-60 hours but in reality we've standardized 40hrs a week almost strictly in the US. And in some western European countries I believe it's even less.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah you're right - a lot of Colombians work 6 days a week - they earn in Colombian pesos so they need to. If you earn in USD - you have 4 times the purchasing power, hence you can work much less.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah mate I remember one of my first jobs out of university I signed a 38 hour contract and was getting paid according to that agreement, but they made me work 70-80 hours a week. What a sh*thouse life!

[@ZaneConnor]

@@AKJoel Yeah I used to work for KPMG in Australia in a mid level consulting role... I realised after 3 weeks it was a bad move... took me a while to get the right next job and escape that slave pit..... Been my own boss as a digital nomad for 15 years now. About to bounce out of Australia after being a prisoner for 3 years in this country and travel again... Love the vids fellas.

[@Tatteddaddydc]

I'm American, and my husband left Bogota in 2017 to emigrate here in Washington DC. He's pretty spoiled. We don't work that much. We live extremely well, huge glamorous apartment, giant swimming pool, luxury SUV, neighborhood is spectacular and safe, dine out, shop, enjoy life. We also travel overseas often. Luckily, we have no kids. Whenever I tell my Colombian husband that I want to try living in Colombia, he drills into my head that I'll never understand the misery of living in a 3rd-world country. He says Colombia is chaos, unsafe, unstable, anti-gay, and corrupt. I still wanna visit 😢

[@AKJoel]

Your husband is being over protective - Medellin received 1.3 million visitors last year - I'm pretty sure they all weren't kidnapped lol

[@MedellinBuzz]

Your husband sounds like many of my family members that left over 20 years ago to live in the U.S. I'd say come vacation for a month, I guarantee he'll change his mind.

[@billyhughes805]

I think what Joel and Andrew are saying is that if you come from the 'Anglosphere' or an EU country then you get an upgrade of life and opportunities - in the UK I am working class albeit with a university degree and masters degree, I am also a Peruvian citizen and in Peru I am definitely not 'working class' I have more opportunities and life choices there than I do back in the UK where I am just another scrub. Of course, working class Colombians work hard and long hours but the vast majority of Colombians aren't going to be watching youtube videos about how to relocate to Colombia 😂.

[@AKJoel]

You are 100% correct!! You obviously understand that we make these videos for a certain audience lol - something that many other people in these comments can't seem to grasp 😂

[@andrewexplorez]

I think you're the only one that watched the full video, lol. It's futile commenting back on some of these other comments because they just didn't understand. Thanks! 🦾

[@j24mike]

You guys are making a lot of sense. Have been to Santa Marta twice and coming back soon. Looking to buy property down there, property is way over priced here in USA.

[@AKJoel]

That's awesome! Yeah you can pick up some great properties here for less than $100k - not sure what you can but in the US with that lol

[@VernonEmerson-w8f]

I was born and raised in beautiful Southern California. San Diego area which I love dearly! Now I reside in Tampa, Florida. And it’s OK here to the climate is tropical and quite beautiful actually. But I’m thinking about visiting a friend. I have over there in Columbia for a while, perhaps? I have one in Medellin And I have a friend in Bogata also

[@AKJoel]

Funny story, when I left Melbourne in 2019 looking to build a new life for myself my first goal was to live in San Diego (I'm a surfer) - however Covid hit and I had to leave and that set me on a new path - one which eventually led me to Medellin :)

[@okok90652]

fuck with this channel 🙌🏼, much love from los angeles 🇲🇽

[@AKJoel]

Thanks brother !! I'm in 🇲🇽 right now haha

[@andrewexplorez]

Gracias compa! I grew up in SoCal. Saludos! 🦾

[@okok90652]

@@AKJoel oh shit really what part ? that’s wassup ! gotta check out jalisco (guadalajara,tequila, or puerto vallarta) or baja california (ensenada ) if you haven’t thank me later haha

[@AKJoel]

I've been to all those spots mate, I lived in Mexico for a year and a half before I got to Colombia! For this trip I was in Punta Mita for 2 weeks and now in CDMX.

[@okok90652]

@@andrewexplorez that’s right what part man 🤝?

[@zam4life737]

Today is 8/20/2023 Sunday.I was just saying in my head man Monday has came to fast getting over a hangover this rat race is for the bird's then I stumbled over this content. Nothing but Facts I am getting ready to get out of this Maddness 💯

[@AKJoel]

Do it mate, you won't regret it!

[@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]

[@Kristoferwitha_k]

I'm hearing on other KZbin channels that there is a growing disdain for gringos. And that people are actively telling gringos to leave now. What are you guys thoughts on that?

[@AKJoel]

All those channels are are spreading fear just for views - think about the nightly news - 90% of the news is negative cos that's what get's people to watch. We've lived here 15 years combined and never received any hate or distain from locals - they love us! Most of my close friends (including my girlfriend) are all locals. Don't let the guys selling out for views scare you away haha

[@cathalkenny]

I spent a little bit of time in Colombia this summer. I would love to go back and live but i have no digital income so it is only a pipe dream for now

[@AKJoel]

It's not that hard, you only need about $2k a month to survive. Check out videos and online courses of skills you can learn that will allow you to travel, that's what I did!

[@willg5857]

I agree with everything you said. Just reading rich dad poor dad. I been wrestling moving there for awhile and in about a month away from moving there. The social life is weird in the USA. U do feel like u hv to keep up w Jones so u think pple will like you. U can never invest more because the bad debt. Tom Brady said it best. It's not only about the championship 🏆 its about the relationships and the journey. Love your content

[@AKJoel]

haha you quoted Tom Brady - legend! Also that's super exciting that you're moving here in a month mate, you're gonna love it - I'm excited for ya!

[@willg5857]

@@AKJoel thx brotha. I've been planning and preparing and when I went to youtube your video popped up. What's the odds of that happening. I will jump and get out of my comfort zone

[@bojchmar]

In US you don't have acess to money. You spend money that you don't have. That's all a mirage, an illusion. My grandma wasn't well educated, but told me something that I value and I follow: Never spend more money that you earn. Never be slave to debt.

[@AKJoel]

Well said!!

[@billyhughes805]

They said that - you have access to credit - not free money, but money that has to be paid back with interest, they actually said those words.

[@bojchmar]

@@billyhughes805 12:35 "in the US where we have more opportunity, more access to money" He said this. If you correct people try to not incorrecty correct other people. 😅

[@mrluis9456]

This channel is so underrated 👍🏾

[@AKJoel]

Thanks for the love mate!

[@dr.woozie7500]

Hey guys, what is the healthy baseline for someone to move to another country? How much money should they have saved up and what type of work should they be doing? Right now, I’m hating college and want to drop out of my Computer science major and live with my mom while I work on a business. Class is too stressful and I don’t have enough time to do other activities. But I keep thinking about time I already put into school and my friends, which keeps me from leaving.

[@AKJoel]

Personally I wouldn't recommend moving to another country before you had a fallback plan i.e. a job you can go back to or a degree.

[@Musicbydanni]

Bro I would seriously consider finishing that computer science degree. It maybe stressful but it’s a career path that pays well. You can use the money you make from your degree to fund your business while you stay with your mom, You can also put some of that money towards passive income, so you’ll always have money coming in. You’re young bro, sacrifice now so that you can get out & live life later while your still young. This is coming from someone who wish they took life more seriously when I was younger, now I’m older trying to play catch up. One step at a time & plan everything out

[@devasta75]

You guys spoke accurately on my reality. Im close to hittin the 5 o and dyin to get outta this never ending ratrace

[@AKJoel]

Get your ducks in a row and do it mate!

[@BienvenidoCorporan]

hey guys you are very good doing these videos everything you said in this video is 300 true i give your 5 starts keep doing videos like this.

[@andrewexplorez]

let's goo! Thank you for the love my friend. I hope you're having a great Sunday!

[@AKJoel]

Glad you enjoyed it mate! Plenty more to come :)

[@vanguardcycle]

10000000% on literally all of this. also.. where's the ice plunge deal?!?

[@AKJoel]

If you search in the Facebook groups for "ice bath" you should find it. I don't have the link but I've seen it spoken about various times in the past.

[@vanguardcycle]

not on facebook but i'll ask around @@AKJoel

[@p.c.h.6721]

I’ve never been to Medellín, but my understanding is that there are months when it rains every day and the traffic is a big problem, wouldn’t it better Barranquilla or Cartagena, although Cartagena is expensive I believe.

[@AKJoel]

It only rains for an hour or so in the afternoons, but usually clears up and the sun is shining again. If you prefer super hot weather where you can't even go outside between 9am & 7pm - then you'll love Cartagena & Barranquilla 😂

[@friendlyneighborhoodoncolo5580]

Travel. Exploration. Making Memories. 👍🏽

[@AKJoel]

That's what life is meant for!

[@stevenrodriguez3058]

I think the interesting is, most people in Colombia are in this rat race position, especially in the larger cities (Medellin, Bogota, Cali, Barranquilla)

[@AKJoel]

Yes but as we said in this and previous videos, even though Colombians work a lot they're still happy and value other things over just accumulating money for no reason

[@johny9685]

I agree but with one reservation: a decent flat in Medellin costs no less than $1500 - while in other parts, it is really possible to rent something at a very bargain price (I had a flat in a super village in the mountains for $200/month: 2 bedrooms/2 bathrooms, super kitchen, electricity about $20/month, internet with TV $40/month - so symbolic money. Medellin is "next level" - but prices are like in Europe, ( I don't know if AK will agree with me) All the rest - the sacred words: in the US or EU you will pay the bills for years and at the end you will get diarrhea and stroke.😁

[@AKJoel]

I don't know where you're looking but $1500 for a flat is way too much. Also Medellin has many different neighbourhoods, maybe you're renting on AirBnb in El Poblado, then $1500 sounds like an accurate price. But we just helped place a couple of guys in apartments last week and they both got places for under $1000.

[@johny9685]

@@AKJoel thanks, you're right- I was looking at Metrocuadrado- for a fully furnished with views etc. From another angle: there is no money that Medellin is not worth. I would definitely recommend your services-it is a great city, but freshers need good guide.

[@AKJoel]

Thanks mate! Yeah so many people come out and just spend $2k for an apartment and think that's a "great deal" so it's good to give them some guidance and save them some money haha

[@leondejuda5353]

Un Colombiano asalariado es pobre pero como minimo puede acceder a un servicio de salud privado decente. Puede hacerse un arreglo odontologico de acuerdo a sus ingresos, comer decentemente bien y pagar sus facturas. ¿Por que a un estadounidense asalariado parece que no le alcanza para tener salud y odontología en USA? ... a Colombia viene miles de gringos diariamente a recibir tratamientos de salud. Eso es bueno para la economia colombiana, pero parace que la inflación y costo de vida no esta bien entendido por nominacion de la moneda, en vez de el poder de compra vs cantidad de bienes ofertados.

[@MichaelLion]

Now if everyone moves to Colombia, what do think is going to happen? You'll are fortunate to find an alternative, why try to convince the western/matrix minded people to move here? Look at the amount views and videos uploaded everyday about Medellin and Cartegena, you don't think the powers that be aren't going to intervene sooner or later?

[@AKJoel]

Some people don't even know that there's another world and range of options outside their 9 to 5 matrix life. I make videos to educate and inspire those people to make a change. The more people that move to Colombia, the more money flowing into the Colombian economy and the more jobs created.

[@MedellinBuzz]

I doubt Colombia will get saturated with foreigners in my lifetime. With an unstable economy, corruption, very high income taxes, etc., it has a very long way to go. However, if it does change "overnight" I'd cash in with my apartments and business. Furthermore, I don't think we're encouraging people to come live in Colombia permanently, we're encouraging people to explore outside their comfort zone, especially if they're sick and tired of their current situation.

[@victorquinones2825]

Hi guys, awesome video. How is the education system for kids? How are the hospitals, specialist medical clinics and medical insurance? Do they have benefits for veterans? Are you able to ship your vehicles there? I am agreeing 100% with this video, working in the USA is terrible never stop to sustain yourself and the lifestyle even worst. What kind of job as a bilingual American can have over there? any info would be appreciated!

[@AKJoel]

Hey Victor, I'm glad you enjoyed the video! Check out this video I made about the health care system in Colombia: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWPJc4idmbiYmbM Yes, you can ship your vehicles but they must be brand new or classics - otherwise you can't. Most people that live here work remotely for US companies.

[@joshhernandez1052]

What if I am more interested in Santa Marta, does your course or support would be the same or is just Medellin?

[@AKJoel]

I'd love to help you out Josh but to be honest we're Medellin specialists and don't really have in depth knowledge about Santa Marta.

[@JohnDoe-fz7hz]

Interesting! So many Colombians you see for example on KZbin videos only wear brands' clothes, have iPhones exclusively, and overall look like they spend a lot just for their appearance in public. There is also often mentioned Colombian Golddigger mentality, especially in Medellin. That didn´t sound like not keeping up with the Joneses. Notice, how the wind blows in Western society is one thing but not all get much money to the side so even if they chose to jump out of the rat race they probably end up in much worse situations than before. To have an advantage move to Colombia you already need an ongoing income from another country or at least have an opportunity to start some kind of business right then. Working as a laborer in such a country didn´t sound like a good idea from many points of view, and it may also be doubtful to get hired especially if you are around 40. Would you say that even under the worst requirements someone can make it there?

[@AKJoel]

No way. If you are a dropkick doing absolutely nothing in the US and not willing to work hard to improve your situation, your life isn't going to improve here. But if you're committed to changing your life and working towards that, you definitely can live an amazing life in Colombia for the fraction of the price as the US.

[@JohnDoe-fz7hz]

@@AKJoel Thanks for your answer

[@nicholas5006]

I've been living in Colombia for 2 years now and im getting bored here to be honest. Paisa culture is not very exciting and its hard to relate to many people here.

[@AKJoel]

Wow - Andrew's been here 13 years and loves every day - what are you doing wrong mate? LOL

[@aahsimovieprojects]

I agree, I spent much of the pandemic there but am recently back in Miami. It gets boring after a while even though I was moving around a lot to keep things interesting. I think going forward i'll do 6 months in the US and then 6 months in Colombia. I'm working on escaping the rat race too but would prefer to just stay in the US although obviously that's going to require a lot more money.

[@Flexizy7]

Bro I have $20,000 saved. Do you think that's enough to quit my toxic job and move to colombia just to experience it? How long would I be able to survive there with the money I saved? I'd be able to move back home to my parents house if it doesn't workout.

[@AKJoel]

If you live conservatively, cook your meals at home, live with some roommates etc. - that $20k could last you 20 months. However if you want your own place and wanna live a bit more comfortably, it'll probably only last 10 months. Either way you're set for a while!

[@benjaminkell3726]

Geta remote job and you are good

[@passportbro1]

I’ll continue working my 9-5 until I can escape the matrix. But my journey starts in a couple weeks Medellín is my first stop then Rio.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah the matrix sucks, good luck mate!

[@yamicanada]

❤❤❤

[@BigRips805]

I didn't watch this particular video...though we all know the main reason men are moving to Medellin. Don't get me wrong Medellin is so freaking awesome. ES CHIMBA! jaja. Though let's get down to the real and what we foreign men care about in Medellin. Dating.....Lol....Dating...sigh. Dating in Colombia for a foreigner is extremely difficult! Actually dating, making a connection and having that woman care about you. Not having a fling or whatever else. And I think that applies to all types of woman in Colombia. Though I'm sure there are some that are better than others, the more culturally versed Colombianas, maybe, just maybe....Anyways to say it is tough is an understatment.. just thought I would express

[@AKJoel]

Yeah this seems like a huge pain point for a lot of guys, finding a woman who actually cares about them and forming a long term relationship - instead of just being taken advantage of by gold diggers lol that's exactly the reason we made an in depth module on this in our Masterclass!!

[@BigRips805]

@AKJoel Yes because even if you do speak spanish, which is an absolute necessity if you do plan to make the move. I still feel like an outsider trying to fit into a place I may never be able to fit into.. though the longer you are there I'm sure the easier for you embrace the culture and your surroundings and actually make Medellin feel like your home country and you belong.

[@billyhughes805]

No - great weather, friendly people, I can sit on a park bench and have an ice cream and I don't have to walk miles to do that as there are parks and benches everywhere, people aren't uptight and angry all the time and are actually friendly and polite - I mean - dating is great and everything but if you are moving thousands of miles for just one thing then you need to widen your perspectives more.

[@AKJoel]

Exactly! if youre moving to a country just to date you're gonna have a lot of problems lol it should be an added bonus, not your primary motivation.

[@andrewexplorez]

The two C's. Cash and couchie. If you pursue cash first the couchie follows. If you don't know how to handle influx of couchie you'll get taken for a ride.

[@grigorirasputin425]

No reason to move to such a dangerous place like Colombia, South East Asia or Eastern Europe much better in that regard

[@AKJoel]

Dangerous according to who? Also South East Asia and Eastern Europe have nothing on Colombia lol

[@grigorirasputin425]

@@AKJoel according to my friend who had his iPhone snatched from him at daylight in Medllin

[@billyhughes805]

Sounds like you have never been.

[@billyhughes805]

@@grigorirasputin425 Yep, thought as much - try and pay it a visit before you judge.

[@AKJoel]

LOL enough said.

[@davidcruise4978]

A Colombian friend told me that he needed $16.00 USD to get a hamburger in medellin at the Grill Station which is almost the same as our meals

[@AKJoel]

A 3 course menu of the day costs as little as $3 here...

[@jcho6927]

​@@AKJoelso, what area is that? I feel like Bogota is almost same as the US in cost and I don't feel you get 4x the stretch in American dollars.

[@AKJoel]

There's 2 places I've personally seen prices like that, these 2 are both vegan restaurants so naturally they're more expensive too. One spot in Centro which was 16k for a menu del dia and one spot in Envigado which was 15k. Also I just spent a few weeks in Bogota earlier this month and rented an awesome AirBnb studio with a nice outside terrace for US$25 a night - where are you gonna find that in the US? Usually for a cockroach ridden motel you're paying $100 a night lol

[@davidcruise4978]

@@AKJoel the grill station has 3 locations in Medellin so you can check out the prices.

[@AKJoel]

Not necessary, I don't like to waste money on stupid things lol

[@thomasricardo9833]

Sounds like having the cake and eating it too.

[@AKJoel]

Exactly!! That's the type of life we've built for ourselves here, as have many other expats.

[@jasonlynch9407]

How much does a foreigner have to spend on a property to get residency in Colombia 🇨🇴?

[@AKJoel]

it's 350 x monthly minimum wage. Right now that looks like it's around US$103k

[@jasonlynch9407]

@@AKJoel Thank you. Are you involved with any real estate agents?

[@AKJoel]

Yes we work with a few great agents and we share that info with our Masterclass students - medellinmasterclass.com/

[@dcdevio]

Ironically, the locals live the same life you describe in the first few minutes of the video.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah but they're not bitter and stressed about it as we also mentioned in this video

[@MedellinBuzz]

Absolutely, a normal work week here is 48 hours, which means people work on Saturdays too. However, they do have way more days off and vacation time than in the U.S. Regardless, this video is for people coming here to live off USD. I'd never recommend for someone to come down and get a local job, LOL.

[@nextlevelcrypto5825]

Guys no hate intended whatsoever but let’s be real. The rat race culture is the same everywhere. People work a lot to survive. Basically every country is expensive if you earn in the native currency. Colombia has a rat race which is far more difficult than the US or Australian one. Fortunately for us we can earn money from abroad to avoid it. There are many rich people from countries like china who come to our countries to drive lambos and enjoy their life outside of the rat race whilst the rest of us struggle paying bills. To them even a country like Australia is cheap. As i said earlier no hate intended whatsoever but this is less of a comparison of US/Australia to Colombia and more of a comparison of living as a rich person vs an average one. But you are right in other countries they do put more emphasis on enjoying their lives in the free time that they have. 100% true.

[@AKJoel]

It's true what you say about people work a lot to survive all around the world, but the Colombian culture definitely does contribute to less of the never ending rat race for the points we mentioned in this video.

[@nextlevelcrypto5825]

@@AKJoel i would agree they do put more emphasis on the other parts of life other than just work. Or at least those who dont have to work 6-7 days to survive there as many do.

[@Gierboo]

Damn y’all giving out the game away lol don’t give out to much sauce bro hahahaha

[@AKJoel]

Haha just tryna help people live a better life and make a change like I did 🙂

[@rajaan11]

Yes want to get out of the rat race in Canada

[@AKJoel]

Do it mate!

[@Swedentertain]

I need someone to hang out with in barranquilla, you have groups hanging out there ?

[@AKJoel]

I don't sorry, Facebook should have something for you though!

[@DerwinDaDestroyer]

I'm trying to get there within a year

[@AKJoel]

You can do it 💪🏾

[@DerwinDaDestroyer]

@@AKJoel had I not accepted this job offer... and found a good long-term rental I would have been there November 1st... I'll just take this tike to brush up on my Spanish

[@Sinnombrefs]

Would be interesting to understand what the top 1% of Colombia make in salary.

[@AKJoel]

Here's my info from a quick Google search: "The search results show that in Colombia, the top 1% of income earners have experienced a smaller increase in their average monthly income compared to the growth in income of the working class (percentile 25) between 2001 and 2021. While the top 1% saw their average income rise from 33 to 43 million pesos per month, the income of the percentile 25 increased from 271,000 to 452,000 pesos per month [1]. Additionally, it is mentioned that the top 1% of the population in Colombia concentrates 20% of the country's income [4]. Colombia has been noted for having significant wealth inequality, with a large income gap between the top 1% and the rest of the population [8]." LONG STORY SHORT - according to the above, the top 1% makes approximately $10k a month.

[@omaly92]

America is not the greatest country in the world you americans are just thought that and until you travel and live in another country you don't realize that. Why I and others love Medellin or Latam is because there's is so much to do from nightlife, hiking, beaches, euros and dollars got far, great dental care, socializing, when you meet good colombians they make you feel like family and just adventures that you are never bored, the only people that don't have a good time are entitled people and people who don't bother learning spanish because even if you are just learning the fact that you are making a effort to speak spanish and be like a colombian they respect alot! That's why alot of us european, canada, americans, asians and australians leave for Latam. The only cons are that: 1)electonics cost more so you just wait till you go back to europe or wherever you are from 2)this happens everywhere and not just latam but in latam you have to be more alert because if something happens to you like robbed, drunk and etc to process is not like back home so they get away with alot 3)when some people hear you speaking another language they try to charge you gringo prices but other than that QUE CHIMBA!

[@AKJoel]

Great comment, well said!

[@brandongilhooly3545]

What I don't see in your videos is how much the cost of everything has gone up in Medellin - especially rent and real estate. That is if you can even find a long term rental in a part of town you want to live in. Have you looked at your recent restaurant receipts ? Yes I understand cost of living is going up everywhere, but Medellin has exploded with foreigners and it is not remotely what it used to be. No surprise why I am seeing "No Gringos" stickers all over the place.

[@AKJoel]

I don't go to restaurants in gringo areas so the gringo pricing doesn't affect me :)

[@patrickclark9156]

Pi day is March 14th. Pi = 3.14 or March 14th

[@AKJoel]

I never knew that haha !

[@Kato22PR]

How do you make good money in colombia if you don’t have an online job?

[@AKJoel]

Unfortunately you can't... there's doctors here who earn only US$2k a month.

[@Ryan-ul7dy]

What about those of us who love working and view the "rat race" as a game of chess? I came to Colombia, not to work less, but to enhance my position on the game board. I would say it's much harder to make valuable business connections here from personal experience however.

[@AKJoel]

That's a great question - as much as I sell the dream of working less I'm actually in the same boat as you. I work much more now than I did in my full time job back in Melbourne - the only differences is that now I work for myself, love the work I do and every second of work that I put in goes into growing my brand & business. A LOT of people I've met (including myself) have actually moved to Medellin to take advantage of the low cost of living and focus on building their business - I'm actually gonna do a video on this in the next couple of months, telling my own story from unemployed to $10k a month business in less than a year.

[@Ryan-ul7dy]

@@AKJoel Same here. Came here with savings and started a successful business. The freedom is priceless. A video on the topic I'm sure would be helpful. Have friends in Europe wanting to make the same move as us.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah putting it together and will have it up soon!

[@cristianloquesea]

Obviamente es mas dificil hacer conexiones y mas si usted es extranjero y un extraño, eso no solo aplica para Colombia, aplica para cualquier lugar en el mundo, en colombia hay carrera de ratas solo que muchos no la ven, ni la viven. La mayoria de las personas van a ver en usted una amenaza si se empieza a involucrar en los negocios de ellos, otra cosa es que lo vean como un cliente y otra muy diferente cuando empiezan a verlo como una competencia, por eso los extranjeros que trabajan en linea no les preocupa a la mayoria de Colombianos.

[@sararivera328]

I am Colombian but I studied in Canada and work remotely from Colombia and is definitely difficult to do business connections and there is a point where you feel stuck, I love living here and I know I'm lucky to be able to get paid in dollars and live here but sometimes I feel like I need to come back to Canada to grew up in my work, I don't know what to do 😂

[@J.D.Vision]

$1,600 a month enough to live confortably in Colombia, for a single guy?.

[@AKJoel]

Yeh for sure! You'd have to rent off AirBnB and you would have to eat some meals at home but it can definitely be done!

[@MedellinBuzz]

Yes, absolutely, but you need to strategize and prepare.

[@BillyGringo]

Easily!

[@sicariobrother316]

So I agree to disagree, but to each it’s own. I love the rat race life in america we have more opportunities than these undeveloped countries such as Cuba, Venezuela Mexico even Colombia. The thing is Americans don’t appreciate what they have. They never do it’s like having a spoil child! My family is from Colombia and they say things differently. I haven’t been in Colombia since Dec of 2014 and I visited 3 times! Although I plan on visiting Colombia again my home is Florida! More opportunities have come to me that I couldn’t have in Colombia or Canada(I use to live)! There is a reason why many people from different countries and states come to Florida. Not trying to bash you guys, but we don’t have work work we have freedom and entrepreneurship! AmeriCANS you need to appreciate what you got

[@AKJoel]

Thanks for sharing your opinion mate!

[@sicariobrother316]

@@AKJoel my pleasure

[@glowtech6536]

There is no weekends in USA anymore. Bars and nightclubs almost empty. Thanks to feminism, Internet, poor quality music and more.USA looking more like a plantation in 2023. Dating scene have collapsed close to 18 years now.

[@AKJoel]

LOL what do empty bars have to do with feminism? I'm not disputing, just genuinely curious.

[@glowtech6536]

Modern day femininist cause that , a lot out there afraid been accused of more. , You can touch someone and might get arrested for that.I don't think you know what happened to Cuba gooding jr. Wake up bro. It contributed to that , I am not saying it is the primary cause.

[@AKJoel]

I'm not sure what happened to Cuba Good Jr but I'll definitely read up on it. I'm from Australia and honestly this wildfire of cancel culture wasn't as strong there when I left in 2019.

[@rzgroeneweg]

@@AKJoel50% of men between the age of 18 and 30 are not interested in dating at all. American men are just not attracted to woke/feminist American women and don’t bother going out looking for them.

[@tstelogeannis]

Depending if your financially stable with plenty of income. 1st your a tourist unless you apply for retirement residency. Then you have to show some income. At that point..do you buy or rent? Both are cheap because that's what you get. A tin roof and clay walls. Or Apartment. Still if you get a job your getting paid in Pesos for the same lousy job you left. You get alot more in Colombia with dollars. But the Rat Race is the same. Probably harder to get by in Colombia if your a working class..not financially independent. Seems like digital nomads get paid in PayPal dollars so that's not to bad. Hahahah..just saying there are bigger Rats in the race in Colombia. And more of them. American Rats don't stand a chance. Go visit..then go somewhere else..keep moving. Remember home is where the Heart is. Mine is in US and Colombia. I make money here so I can spend it there.

[@AKJoel]

Yeah whatever we say about escaping the rat race only applies if you earn in dollars. If you come here and start working for a local company and earn in pesos, the rat race will remain the same, although you won't feel the same pressure to buy heaps of useless things you don't need - like in the US haha

[@paulashwell1604]

great content

[@AKJoel]

Thanks mate!!

[@Victorio-f9y]

Rat race exactly

[@AKJoel]

YEah, it sucks!

[@waldo-ot6ul]

He who dies with the most toys still dies

[@AKJoel]

Exactly!

[@elmalanmalan2175]

Venezuela is a better choice

[@AKJoel]

Yeah? Have you been?

[@andrewexplorez]

I'd love to go the beaches there. My last gf was Venezuelan, they're very beautiful, and very fun. They're accent almost reminds me of a Mexican accent. It's not as pretty as the Paisa song. I'm sure I could buy a whole apartment complex with like $80k right now, lol

[@elmalanmalan2175]

@@AKJoel yes Sir!

[@benjaminkell3726]

😂😂😂