The #1 Reason Expats LEAVE Medellin, Colombia 🇨🇴

[@WheresWes]

MY MOVING TO COLOMBIA COURSE IS NOW AVAILABLE!!! You can purchase it at mynewcolombianlife.com If you want to schedule a consultation, email me at: [e-mail] or DM me on Instagram: @wesleezy

[@LouieManza]

This is kinda hard to explain. When we're raised by our parents, we're raised to be very wary of people who we don't know. You have to understand our extremely turbulent history. It goes back centuries. Most of our history is pebbled with extreme political violence. This vengeance and revenge cycle goes back a very long way Because of this, in Colombia you can literally find the very worst of humanity but paradoxically you can also find the very best of human nature as well. True honest and strong bonds between men, woman and even family clans. We're taught to be very polite to everyone. This may be conscrewed by non Colombians as fake nice I guess. Never pound your chest. This is considered unsavory behavior not to mention very dangerous. We're taught to always be on the defensive. Believe me, it's complicated. Colombia is presently going through a Reawakening. A rebirth. We've never had a history with tourism or massive waves of immigration like many other countries have in the region. But nothing is eternal and the people are exhausted with the violence. Right now, as we speak, the country is in the process of healing. Forgiving itself for the countless atrocities it committed to one another. There are very old cynical forces trying their best to keep that from happening. There's money in war but there's no turning back. I'm 62. I had lost hope for my motherland a long time ago. Not anymore. I see an extremely bright future for my country. For our youth. If a foreigner really wants to make Colombia their new home, bienvenidos. Immerse yourself in the culture. Don't criticize it's bland food 🤣 Understand it's history. It's the quickest way to make genuine long lasting friendships. I apologize for the long-winded version. It's far to complicated to do it any other way. Bienvenidos to all well meaning people of the world. We want the world to see our true nature. Kind people, tolerant of different viewpoints and lifestyles. Respect and you'll always be respected. Cheers!

[@arisejeff]

I like the food. Reminds me of Viet food. Simple, basic, to the point, affordable and for the most part healthy

[@deloredan]

Thank you for that Louie.This is an absolute eye opener.I am Canadian,love Latin American culture,and I love to see Latin immigration to Canada.So it has made me very sad to realise it is really hard to make friends here,as I always think of Latin America as the most welcoming and congenial place in the world ( With South Pacific)

[@deloredan]

Actually,I love the food.Anyone who claims it is bland should try Victoria in Canada,where,for instance,despite being on the Pacific coast it is really hard to eat good fish.I get much better fish in Medellin,albeit being located in the interior.Soups are amazing,I cannot get enough of the sopas de verduras.Very hard to find anything similar in Canada.Even in restaurant it is all soup mix,powder...

[@Globetrotter5198]

Appreciate the honest perspective

[@WheresWes]

cheers bro

[@Sinnombrefs]

I feel this 100%. I do think the older you get the harder it is to even meet people and connect.

[@WheresWes]

agreed

[@richardlopez2857]

Klk loco

[@cristianloquesea]

Asi es, se convierte en una carrera contrareloj.

[@dcmfox]

I'm in Medellin and from the US, I think the main reason its hard to make friends is people have to work 6 days a week, they have no time

[@WheresWes]

Very good point

[@eddiemccormick9758]

You hit the nail on the head !!! This is so true!!

[@MrLudvig01]

I actually have some advice: In a new country (I've lived in seven) I usually go for walks. one or two blocks from my house, and the next day I widen the circle. On my walks, I talk to street vendors, taxi drivers, and so on. after a few days. I will have people that I can small talk with. I go to the same restaurants for a while, maybe a week. eventually, you will have a small social network. They will probably introduce you to other people, and you are on a roll. Maybe I will see you in a month.

[@arena2236]

In Medellín is hard, is growing in population. It's hard for me to make friends, really hard, so when I was in the U.S. (being Colombian) I blamed the country I was iving in, then I came to Medellín, and same thing. So I came to the conclusion that it was me, not the place, but it is the world we're living now, I feel that wherever I go, people don't look at me but their smartphones. I thing that in my personal experience, having friends it's up to me, and I have to put more effort in that. Watching this video makes me realize that there are good people there that want to have real friends, not just me.

[@ms4687]

The problem with today’s society all over the world is everybody’s consumed with them selves and they go with the crowd that’s most exciting at that time for the best photo op on social media. It’s so hard to really find a true friend these days.

[@LeonardoYouTube8]

Welcome to the internet age, fren.

[@SaraBurdick]

I am a severe introvert and love being alone. I live in an amazing community in colombia and my bf being colombian we always have people around... for me it is the same as the US.. i think most people make friends at work and when you work remote anywhere in the world its hard to make friends..i have lived and traveled all over.. it is hard to break into groups anywhere.. imo😄

[@WheresWes]

fair point. but you live in a pueblo right?

[@SaraBurdick]

@@WheresWes yea i would never live in medellin🤣.. i am not a city girl. I have had friends move to medellin and make local friends tho...

[@mikeanderson9266]

Yup!

[@arisejeff]

Pretty true for most part. But I met a Colombian girl several doors down from me who was also a digital nomad teacher and she introduced me to her friends and family so I was hanging out with the locals.

[@WheresWes]

Nice bro good for you!

[@bfpsu123]

Of course you can get by without Spanish but if you are really serious about living in Colombia it really helps to speak the language. It’s not easy to learn but IMO it’s very worth it. It opens up a lot of doors socially.

[@WheresWes]

agreed

[@spirittravels.]

Expats are most likely leaving because of several reasons: 1. After the "honeymoon period" ended, they realised Medellin is a polluted busy city, and no longer "interesting" , or as attractive. 2. Many watched "move to Medellin" utube videos, thinking there was a fantastic expat community, which there really isn't. 3. Many probably feel lonely, and are feeling cautious over dating, especially with the kind of crime that can occur . 4. They travelled, they found better places in Colombia that are more in the nature and less commercial, and more beautiful and authentic to live in.

[@WheresWes]

nice points

[@Human-bf7kz]

Kindly expand on #4 Places more in the nature and less commercial, and more beautiful and authentic to live in. Give examples.

[@spirittravels.]

@@Human-bf7kz I recommend you do your own internet research, or read a guidebook for this information. You won't have any difficulty finding answers .

[@neilpollack3514]

@@Human-bf7kz Manizales

[@EcstaticTemporality]

This is a balanced commentary. Thank you. Much to consider.

[@WheresWes]

cheers bro

[@iam528hz8]

Great energy and presence in your videos. Planning on a longer trip to Colombia for culture and improve my Spanish skills. Love from Sweden 😎

[@gif24gt60]

If u know a little Spanish or are willing to learn, go to Mexico. Some of the friendliest people I ever met. They will treat u as family. As well some of the most flavorful food u'll ever eat.

[@sammysamsam1415]

Wes and others, I find it very easy to make friends in Colombia. The secret is to be bold and forward. Always put yourself out there by trading numbers and spend some solid time texting before making invitations for activities. One time, I literally dropped a case of beer down for some dudes in Bogota in a sketchy neighborhood and said let’s drain some bottles. Bold. I proceeded to have one of wildest nights of my life! We bonded and are still friends and follow eachother on whatsapp until we get together again. I have other stories and could probably repeat this model but find it better to just pick up a basketball game or challenge dudes to pushups in a park rather than the all night drinking binges in bombed out neighborhoods 😉 The same goes with Colombian women. Be bold. Sing to them. Sweep them off their feet, or no soup for you!

[@WheresWes]

Interesting. Fair point.

[@creamyturtle69]

I've been having similar experiences. a dude I met at the barber shop the first day asked me to come smoke I was like nah maybe later. got his number we been chatting and whatnot. today he saw me on campus and came up to me while I was on the phone. I was like yooo dude this is crazy seeing you here, he took me to the cafe and bought me a cafe. then literally walked me to my class. to say people aren't friendly in colombia is a bit crazy to me, they seem overly friendly lol

[@deloredan]

Well,I would tend to agree.I was in Salon Malaga in Medellin and saw an older very cheerfull couple walking in.After seeing them order I asked the waitress to givevme the bill,and next thing I was sitting at their table befriending them.

[@nygardenguru]

Have to be wild and crazy

[@dwighthayles1226]

Wes you are right. The other thing is that you have to learn the language and not just a few words in order to fully integrate. It takes time (Possibly years) to learn a language, a new culture and you will also make embarrassing mistakes. On paper it seems easy but in reality it's challenging.

[@WheresWes]

yeah agreed

[@takethedamnphoto]

I think your take on making friends out there is on the dot. You should be wary of the company you keep and when you're out of the county being an expat + being asian, even more so. Love your journey brother, wish one day I can do the same!

[@TradGuyTravels]

4:23 “Colombians are friendly but fake nice” yeah that sounds a lot like Los Angeles, CA hahaha

[@WheresWes]

Yeah exactly. Same thing, weather and traffic too

[@TradGuyTravels]

@@WheresWes Yeah pretty similar. I haven’t been to Medellin yet but at the moment Los Angeles has been cold and frequently rainy like Bogota. And apparently during my most recent trip to CO in the past couple weeks it was flooding around Los Angeles so glad I missed that

[@johnrobertson1]

This is an issue with almost any big, densely populated city. I’ve lived in New York for almost a decade, and for everyday life, you have to develop your own personal bubble to stay sane amidst the chaos. Of course, the [potential] downside of that is that you end up treating almost everyone as strangers. That said, I personally prefer it that way. It’s not a downside for everyone. Some people are just less social (by choice) and the lack of forced interactions can be more comfortable for people who are used to that and only want small, tight-knit social circles.

[@WheresWes]

fair point

[@christiane785]

agree .. a lot of what Wes says he likes about manizales would be cons for me. I’m not sure if it’s a positive to have your community just be your wife’s friends. They’ll always be her friends first and foremost. Also they’ll probably be all in your business. But we’re all diff so good for him that he found what he likes

[@sugarbear1225]

🤣🤣🤣that’s what I love about Medellin ❤️people leave me alone.🇨🇴💯

[@WheresWes]

Lmao bro

[@sugarbear1225]

@@WheresWes my friends are worried that too many Americans will invade Meddy so it’s great news to hear that expats are leaving😊

[@joannr3799]

Hey Wes My husband is Colombian from Itagui and his brothers and cousins here in the States were very welcoming to me. We are going to Medellin next year so I’ll let you know my thoughts after I’m there. Glad to see you are doing well with your wife and life. Can’t wait to see your new travels!

[@WheresWes]

Cheers, thanks Joann!

[@JarrettHolmes]

Hi! Great video Wes. Just found your channel. I'm a digital nomad and content creator living in Brazil 🇧🇷 now here for 6 months. I'm relocating to Columbia for 3 months in June. I'm going to Cartagena first and probably Medellin in July for my second month. I'm excited to explore Columbia and all that It has to offer! Thanks for sharing man.

[@WheresWes]

Cheers bro

[@andrestewart1]

I think it’s easy to make friends in Medellin, I’ve made quite a few friends at language exchanges and even Uber drivers. I have talked to foreigners and most of them sit in their place and order food on Rappi. I have quite a few friends in Medellin, actually more than I did living in LA 12 years…so I think it all depends on the person and their effort. Not knowing the language can also be a hindrance. Language exchanges by far is the best place to start or a church..

[@WheresWes]

Fair point thanks for sharing

[@alexjackson4558]

I felt the same way after I moved out of New York City and came back after 4 years. It seemed noisy, crowded, dirty, hectic, and with the gun situation more dangerous. I still love the city for shopping and entertainment but not to live. Do you charge for consultations? You see, almost everyone, everywhere is transactional. Sad.

[@joe-vl3nd]

Expat 🇬🇧 lives in Cali for 6 years ..cool place lots of Colombian friends..no sweat ..I like my own space to ...have lived in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan..and I have a house in st Louis..go figure......never had any problems... 👍

[@RC94332]

Went to Medellin about 10 years ago. Liked it a lot but wasn’t my favorite spot. I would love to go to manizales

[@juanvaldez7633]

Less so than the difficulty of making friends/establishing community, for me I think you nailed the main issues at about the 2:00 mark of the video. That is the constant chaotic activity/noise/traffic/safety concerns endemic to just about any densely populated major metropolitan area in the developing world. The pandemic put a damper on all that for a while, but now that it's behind us dealing with all that on a day-to-day basis gets wearing. I was fortunate to spend five nights in Manizales over Christmas last year, loved the area, and am starting to feel that is much more my speed as an older expat primarily desiring a little peace and tranquility at this stage of life.

[@jonsnow9700]

It sounds like the community in Manizales is tight and welcoming, but I can say that after being in and out of Medellín for the last year, I have a circle of people that are already like family. These are both men and women that I can count on for virtually anything, and they know they can rely on me. Just like your point of getting picked up at the airport, I have friends that ask me if I want them to meet me there. I guess it's all luck 🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️

[@ryanpedersen5722]

Thinks it's the same in most countries, In Australia big cities aren't friendly, I came from Melbourne originally, Melbourne isn't that friendly, but I moved to a small tourist city in far north Australia called Cairns, I made friends soooo quick, people will talk to you on the street, invite you over for dinner, very friendly, I didnt really appreciate it until I went back to Melbourne and hardly anyone would even acknowledge you when walking on the street

[@YZsTravelAdventures]

Think Melbourne is bad? Try being in Sydney.

[@Stezworld]

Big city problems. Different mentality from small towns and rural areas compare to big city people. I’m talking from my personal experience in different countries. Big cities people tend to be more cold than small towns & rural areas where they normally are more hospitable.

[@WheresWes]

Yes i agree. I felt the same in LA

[@Agustin-jo8mv]

Man all your topics are quality. Haha. This is so true. It takes time and effort to build/become part of a community. Staying in a shared housing was the most socializing I did when I stayed in Medellin for a month. I did also stay at home a lot. I am a motorcycle rider and made a crucial mistake of not buying a motorcycle when I went to Medellin. Haha. I would've had all the unlimited transportation I needed. Next time I'm buying a motorcycle whenever I go. Haha.

[@John-ee8wm]

In NYC there are stoops and by the end of the week you'll have friends... Many friendships start with a business deal or common idea... Everywhere...

[@Jumbo37279]

They gotta take the time to learn the language it’s literally the key to reallly enjoying other countries

[@WheresWes]

Yessir agreed

[@SPCPerez19Delta]

man, you nailed it. I was there for a couple of weeks at a time for the past year and it gets VERY lonely especially if you aren't there to hook up. I did end up meeting someone there but still it feels like a lonely place because I find it tough to trust ppl

[@TheyCallMeJTK]

That's why I love Costa Rica 💯

[@elvdell5582]

Yesssss.... The hospitality most people refer to is very genuine, but it is not the same as great friends' kind of thing. There are levels to hospitality. The example I use is this. We were there for Independence Day in Cartagena. And people were so friendly. The group we had near treated us like family. When they poured out a drink, they poured us some as well. The one girl had warned about my cell phone and to be careful having it out. In general people seem to be very helpful in the streets. It's that kind of friendliness that makes you feel what I think most people that have high expectations feel. Staying long term is different, however. It does take some effort, and putting yourself out there via social groups, language exchanges, and what not. And even then, it can be tough. It's not the same for everyone. Some people truly have those outgoing personalities that I think people really magnetize to and they invite home, and to meet the family for dinner and all that kind of stuff. I'm trying to pre-set myself up to not be disappointed if it is not that way when I stay longer term. It's difficult enough making good friends in my home country where I speak the language let alone a foreign country where you are passable in the language. Until I'm fluent I feel like I'd just be a burden to them. Good video in any event.

[@TheEddieToro]

Anyone who wants to make it in Medellin, Colombia 🇨🇴 or any other Spanish speaking country HAS TO learn Spanish so that you can make connections. If you wanna avoid Medellin, then come on over to Envigado which is next door to Medellin. People are more chillaxed and the town is quieter. I know because I've been here for 24 years.

[@WheresWes]

agreed

[@CamiloCarbonell]

Bro im Colombian, from the north coast. What you mention is actually real and we all talk about it. Medellin locals are really close even with people from other cities. They are kind but they are not really easy to make friends and let you into their group. Beyond the subjectiveness of our perception, it is something that we all agree when we come to medellin. It also has to do with the geography....People living in the coasts tend to be more open, relaxed etc i guess...

[@gif24gt60]

That's why I would prefer to visit Santa Marta or Cali, as hot as the weather may be.

[@dance.medallo9185]

True my friend very hard vives and you have to be on yo ur toes very hard to make real friends and when it comes to relationships it’s horrible

[@warrenwong4518]

NIce Wes, I do agree to some points. I was just in Medellin last month for about 2.5 months. You do really have to go out of your way to ingratiate into the culture to make local friends. I made 2 good local friends, but they speak fluent English which helped a lot. I also took Spanish and Dance classes while here. It's what you make of it. You do need to put in effort though. Hope I'll catch you in Colombia one day.

[@seuconrado3365]

Are you still here? Let's grab lunch! I might come down to Manizales as well.

[@caleblovell]

I had no trouble making friends in Bogotá. Stayed 6 months in a coliving building. It was dope. Talk to a couple every day on whatsapp. Hope to be back before too long!

[@WheresWes]

thanks for sharing!

[@XA1985]

I’m leaving the US this month, I spent the entire 2022 building connections online in the country where I am going so that I have people to hang out with and talk to, best idea EVER

[@WheresWes]

smart man

[@pepetovar5012]

you so right

[@tumentoraivonluna]

Can you share your churchs name please? I am from Colombia living in Austria and moving back home 😍

[@henrytrenter1972]

Great video, I have struggled making new friends even in my home country until I joined a Thai Boxing gym - I feel like playing local sport would be an opportunity to make friends, even as a foreinger (i hope).

[@WheresWes]

thanks for sharing

[@MrHerrmeier]

Is there a Facebook group to report scammers in Colombia?

[@josechimal1358]

I wonder if the language barrier has a lot to do. I'll be visiting Medellin and other cities of Colombia (Cartagena, Barranquilla, Santa Marta) in September-October. I speak Spanish fluently so i'll find out how easy is to socialize with Colombians.

[@WheresWes]

it's a huge factor for sure but also culture

[@michaelrichmond3315]

How is your Spanish are you fluent ? Can you communicate with the locals in a sufficient manner?

[@WheresWes]

Yeah C1 level, 95% fluency

[@michaelrichmond3315]

@Where's Wes? that's great I am advanced can get point across working on becoming fluent before I try to live in Latin America cheers

[@dominic6055]

Loneliness is the greatest challenge and disease of our generation, no matter how much we surround ourselves with people and activities, we feel lonely. Unfortunately chronic loneliness leads to suicidal thoughts, depression and dementia if not solved...

[@tdeancline]

I have a church there in La Zona Floresta, se llama Alianza Cristiana, go there, the people in Poblado tend to be more stuck up then other parts of Medellin look up Pastor Obed Montanez at the church I just mentioned buddy, he will befriend you brother!!! The people in his church are amazing and treat you like royalty.

[@swagmasterswag12]

Literally the reason i left you cant even go to a normal bar without being surrounded by groups

[@WheresWes]

Great point

[@jamiestar3376]

I got friends medellin and I never had issues in medellin but I have a few things working for me. Mexican Spanish Am giving person Very social. Any place you want to break into you need to invited people or buy them a few drinks...people are curious if your Asian or mexican.

[@WheresWes]

fair point

[@courtenaymckee7491]

I’m an expat living in Medellin and my experience is the opposite. I have too many friends… but I’m an introvert. 😐

[@WheresWes]

interesting. Maybe it's different as a woman

[@courtenaymckee7491]

@@WheresWes I’m a man. 🥸

[@lizkellysromero3581]

@@courtenaymckee7491 Lol 💀

[@Furryhatguy]

I met most of my closest friends at ayahuasca ceremonies. Also bro, do you know a guy named Phil Jalovec? Usually everyone knows him in medellin.

[@leon19736]

Any advice on ayahuasca ceremonies near Medellin. I fly there in a week

[@andresarias5303]

Go join a church in Medellin, I'm sure you will end up with a similar experience as Manizales

[@WheresWes]

I did, the experience was way different

[@andresarias5303]

@@WheresWes Try another church, it's like dating

[@StevenDavisPhoto]

I heard language exchange groups can be a good way to meet people.

[@WheresWes]

yeah that is true

[@danevans2397]

My plan is to move to Cali for my Love; then move to Manizales with her. I will like to visit other cities like Medellin and Bogota, and the Caribbean coast towns. But you and another KZbinr have me sold on Manizales. Plus the cooler weather!

[@WheresWes]

Cheers bro

[@liveandlearnwithmike]

Wesley, great video with info....thank you!

[@WheresWes]

Cheers bro

[@stefanschuepfer]

That's the case all over the world: it's nowhere easy to make real friends when you are in a new place. Or how many expats did you befriend back in your hometown in the US? Didn't you rather hang out with friends you grew up with rather than with strangers? What were your expectations when you came to Colombia, that in a couple of weeks you will have an abundance of friends you can really trust? The only candidates are people who are in the same situation as you are - that is other expats, or colleagues at work. But for the latter, you would need to have an regular employment at a local company. By the way, didn't you go there to leave your problems behind, as you say most other expats do? Nothing you say is specifically about Medellin or Colombia, it's about moving away by yourself. But that's not what you are telling.

[@WheresWes]

i think it's both.

[@williamhutchison5969]

Hey Wes, a suggestion, take it for what it's worth. It might help your listeners ?? lookers ?? if you quantified your opinion, not that you could be dead on but in a general sense. I've been here twelve years, have probably 18 or 20 expat contacts and not one has gone back, none even thinking about it as far as I know. Some are American, others Canadian and two Australians. If 100 out of 200 have gone back, yes, they're leaving, if it is 100 out of fifty thousand, a completely different story. People will come here and leave, there is no question of that, moving across the city is sometimes upsetting, a completely different country and culture can certainly be overwhelming. Something about the grass is always greener ??

[@WheresWes]

fair point. I feel like it's probably closer to 50% who knows

[@williamhutchison5969]

@@WheresWes Don't doubt it Wes if that's your estimate, I love Med and especially Santa Fe de Antioquia, in Armenia now and you'd have to go some to be in a better city, anyway have a great evening.

[@johnkirvan679]

I have moved to a number of different big cities. I feel like at 30+ it gets hard to meet new friends because everyone already has their family or group of people they want to be around.

[@WheresWes]

good point

[@saurabhkaushik3552]

And is this place safe for foreign solo visitors regarding exploring places and nightlife etc... I mean in general is it safe or some genuine concern bothers every time reagarding some uncertainty as what I have heard about the country!!

[@mikemaldanado6015]

I have no problems meeting friend in any major city through the music I like. Minimal techno is a niche scene with less than 50 people in each major city. i went to one the parties here and made friends instantly. I am also a mtb biker and joined one of the local clubs and met people that way. I suggest using your interests to meet friends.

[@Javiergarcia-pk4cy]

In my opinion I think that it all depends of the main reason why foreignness decide to live here in Medellin , you can’t generalize because it’s also well known that some of them only come for party and other kind of stuff , not everyone comes with the intention of settle down, make real an good friends or rise a family , otherwise please stop making that bad image of Medellin , you were surrounded of toxic people it seems , for sure I can say most of the people here we are also family people , not that toxic just like some said and you agreed , sorry

[@WheresWes]

good point

[@chrispee5786]

It all depends on where you look for the friends. Did you ever go to church groups in medallo?

[@Mr5Davis]

I don’t think he’s painting a ‘bad’ image of Medellín. He didn’t say the people are bad or rude. This happened to me as well in Spain. Good people there but hard to make friends with the locals. And I think this can be the case in a lot of big cities if you’re a foreigner.

[@Javiergarcia-pk4cy]

@@Mr5Davis are you sure ? Go and check his last video about his impression of Medellin , I respect others opinions but in general his appreciation of the city is negative , one of the points is that I consider there has been a notable religious influence in his life , respetable anyway

[@marrokraff998]

@@Javiergarcia-pk4cy i dont know about that video in particular but i think the comparison was between smaller and safer cities like Manizales vs Medellín in which case he was correct to point out that it's safer, better place to raise family but a bit provincial and boring when compared to Medellín. He also stated that even if it's Manizales, after all it is Colombia/South America. And he has a point in the sense that countries in the Caribbean have higher rates of delinquency, crime such as robberies and violent crime. Sure certain projects or areas in Chicago, St. Louis, Baltimore, Memphis and Detroit suffer from these as well. However generally speaking if you take the whole of the USA, it is still much safer than Colombia. Nevertheless thats never stopped me from traveling to Colombia or Venezuela. But we can't be oblivious to the fact that these countries are on average much more dangerous than all the Commonwealth nations and Western Europe. Shouldn't let your guard down anywhere but it's simply obvious that Colombia is more dangerous than where he's from in the United States lmao🤣

[@charlesbennett7688]

Good video

[@Giablo1]

Bro shhhh a little about Manizales, don't want the word to get out too much hahaha

[@WheresWes]

lolol true that

[@TheSlashSlingingSlasher]

"They are trying to run away from their problems in the USA" Can you expand on that? What sort of problems?

[@ManofExcellence]

I never looked at Medellin this way. I think what you are saying is really important for someone considering moving to Colombia permanently or for a long time. Especially with a family already. I’m thinking for bringing my 12yo son for like a whole month to see how he likes it there. This is definitely something to consider.

[@WheresWes]

Cheers bro

[@d2armandg]

I encourage you to find paths where you kid could connect with the locals. There are heaps of activities run by the city for kids meet up. Have a look at comfenalco or comfama plans for the time he will be in Medellin (mostly arts and dance) even INDER Medellin, hope this is useful 🫠

[@jimboslice4623]

Hey Wes 👋 I liked in Medellin for a year and I couldn't agree with you more! If you are the type that it is difficult to make friends and are a " home body ", Medellín will extenuated your natural tendencies.

[@WheresWes]

thanks for sharing.

[@arturorobles1989]

Im surprised hearing you say that, mainly bc you have a restaurant and Id think you would have more friends. Makes me think too, about me, and how I always make friends where ever I go, especially girl friends!

[@WheresWes]

i have friends but not a lot in Manizales

[@arturorobles1989]

Im going to check out that town Marisales, Thanks for the tip ! When is the last time you went back to Japan? You are Japanese no ?

[@arturorobles1989]

I just seen your wedding pics! There so cool, congrats fella! Chinese ha? Lol I honestly love the Chinese, there the only ones that have handed the US their ass so far! Lol

[@charlieabbot3649]

How are things after the election? Real estate prices are still up? Thanks

[@ayanamij]

I went to Medellin and instantly made friends. A lot of them told me they like the foreigners a lot, but they also equally like it when they leave, haha. But despite that, I think they are very social in Medellin and in a genuine way. Personally, I have way bigger problems making friends in Asia. You've been there longer than me though, so you'd know better than me. If someone new to Colombia was having trouble like you did, but speaks Spanish and English like you, I'd probably tell them to go to the intercambios that seem to happen every day of the week in El Poblado. There are a lot of Colombians and Venezuelans living in Medellin who go to practice their English. Actually, similar to Europe, I think there are a lot of people in Medellin who are into foreign languages, so even if someone doesn't speak English, there are always people who want to practice French or German etc. too. EDIT: I might be sort of speaking relatively here now that I think about it a second time. I guess it is hard to make friends in foreign countries in general. If you don't speak the local language, it will of course be hard to penetrate a friend group. Even if you do, there are still cultural differences. I suppose I just thought it was easier there than most of Asia and South America. For me, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Colombia were the easiest place for me to make local friends in Latin America.

[@redneckpress]

I avoid ex-pat.s How much do you pay for income tax and medical insurance? I was ready to check out Northern Colombia, I go 4-5 times a year but I found out retirement income is treated the same as income, and they tax it ( my bracket) 36-38%. Too big of a bite to leave the U.S. I also I watch another KZbinr and it looks like VISA requirements change leaving the ex-pats up in the air

[@alexistorres2718]

Hey Wes, I just came back to the USA after spending a month in Colombia. I seriously fell in love with everything the country has to offer. I've visited the country before, and decided to go back to see if it was suitable to live in. I have some questions for you. What websites or resources do you recommend looking at to do research and apply for a visa. How much should I have saved before going? I need some tips and advice. You should make a video on this! and if you already have a video to this, can you please link it? Thank you in advance!

[@WheresWes]

i have not but dm on instagram

[@PepitaBlue2]

Totally agree with that comment. I went there just to visit and I totally got that vibe. I'm Mexican and was capable of interacting but people were so shallow. I'm also from Seattle where people are also cliquish and shallow. They reminded me very much of Seattle people. I think the thing that you have in common is that the cities are all about money and ambition. That's why people are in Medillin and that's why people are in Seattle. The places are also very green, modern and beautiful and seemingly wealthy. The two places are all about image rather than substance. I've also read online about out-of-state having a hard time breaking into clicks themselves so it's not just a problem encountered by foreigners. I certainly would never live there.

[@rickynomics]

I'm a dual citizen that goes back and forth from NY to MED. What you described was city culture in general. The effort to make friends was higher in and NY and MED than when I lived in Colorado. Just gotta find where you have the best chemistry. But, if you find it hard to make friends anywhere you go...might have to dedicate on some self-reflection.

[@charlesbennett7688]

Keeping it real

[@lionhearto6238]

i left medellin also. not telling anyone which city i'm in now because i don't want it to become medellin. one of the main reasons i left the usa are the toxic people. and now those same people are flooding medellin. pity

[@WheresWes]

agreed

[@net2dev]

Agreed, I want to live in Medellin so bad but Im afraid it gets poisoned with US toxicity.

[@chrisp4727]

@@net2dev funny how you guys are generalizing a nation as toxic cause if it was just a few people then you would move to a different state since the US is a huge country, but I bet you all love to get paid in dollars instead of pesos, smh. Y’all giving a “nice guy” vibe, be honest you all going for the cost of living and the women. I shouldn’t get upset for your comments but saying you are leaving the US cause toxic people (whatever that means) as the reason to go to Medellin 😒 please.

[@lionhearto6238]

@@chrisp4727 sorry you feel that way. colombia is so much more than "cost of living and women"

[@supermonk3y07]

@@lionhearto6238 drugs...and jungles and the Andes that's it.

[@hughjames8339]

I think its lack of language skills for me in any foreign country.

[@dantepisciotta3545]

¿What makes you think you deserve to have friends? I mean.. ¿What makes you think you're so special? Most human beings don't have friends at all; they just get along with some people once in a while.

[@WheresWes]

Yikes

[@domenicdapice7218]

I've been to Medellin a few times. There's a different spirit in Medellin. If you hang around the 70 your likely to hear English every 30 seconds in the street. In my opinion Medellin having been there 5 times is not the kind of place for me. My girlfriend is a Rola and she's going to finish her esthetician course with a nurse certificate we would like to go live in Armenia or Pereria. That's where Colombians richness comes from and it's also Conservative. Gringos get in trouble taking risks in Medellin. I've been through that already.

[@McFanick]

when you lived in LA, did you walk around with foreigners?

[@WheresWes]

in college most of my friends were from LA. As an adult, almost all my friends I met were people who moved to LA to make it.

[@McFanick]

@@WheresWes @Where's Wes? no offense, no pressure, i'm just curious. But how many of them were foreigners with broken english that you intensely wanted to hang out with.

[@charlesmassaquoi6717]

I agree with you my brother. I was in Manizales and I like it there. Also, it is hard to find a serious girl or relationship in Medellin. Most of the women are interested in "transactional relationship" and not for a serioys relationship.

[@atillathahunk]

I always felt like there was stiff competition on tinder there from other better looking tall blue eyed gringos.

[@WheresWes]

idk bro I think asians do just as well as gringos here

[@TopSpinWilly]

Yep.

[@pjsmitnl1]

Hi Wes , what did you mean with comparing medellin pereira

[@WheresWes]

Pereira is mini Medellin. in climate, culture

[@robertkling6233]

K Is your church English speaking ? I'd be curious to know the name of it.

[@WheresWes]

it is not, it's all in spanish

[@andresg2651]

Bro I'm from cali .and I agree with you hahaha even me I'm colombian I feel left out .cali people are more friendly I think.

[@X_SWGoH]

100% VA permanent and total. So I'll be living off 3,600 a month. That's not a lot in California. Hopefully, it'll go a lot further there. That's the main reason for me looking to move there. As far as meeting guy's, I'm not too interested in that. Hopefully I will make some friends.

[@LorenCognita]

The first country I stayed in I made a local friend immediately and we’re still so close. I learned the hard way that wouldn’t be the case everywhere lol 😂. I’m in Colombia and so far I’m only friends with my Uber driver but I don’t want to be friends with people that want to date me.

[@davegarmendia1717]

I love living in Cali, but 6 months is enough. The Countries, and has some financial strange rules. Don’t think I’ll ever get my cedula, don’t to taxed in two countries

[@WheresWes]

fair point

[@BSVMaxi]

Be safe on tinder! Don’t go with strange women to places you don’t know ☠️

[@glenngimotea5350]

Hi Wes, my wife And I are planning to visit Medellin in October. I wanna know if it's still worth going there for vacation at this moment? I've heard bad and good things about it and we are still trying to decide if we push through or not.

[@WheresWes]

I have a few more videos I'm gonna make on Medellin. after those videos let me know

[@glenngimotea5350]

@@WheresWes thanks bro

[@glenngimotea5350]

@@adana4670 thanks Adan A

[@JonSnow-cm3nh]

Been in Medellin for 5 years bro. Never been to Manizales, but you hit the nail on the head. VERY tough to find friends. But the women are worth it. So whatever 😅

[@WheresWes]

lol

[@pcabraham2580]

This is true for expats in most big cities globally. It is certainly true in Singapore where I live. The only expats who really become part of the community are those who marry a local. Once you do that, you get entry into his or her family and friends. Otherwise, as an expat, it is difficult to make good local friends

[@aerografitti]

u really think the vibe in Pereira is heavier than in Medellin ? I disagree tbh. Pereira is a tiny lil city obviously el centro is very hectic but when compared to Medellin's centro its very small and not as dangerous. Pereira has a lot of quiet and chill areas. Medellin is a huge super dense and overstimulating city compared to Pereira if u ask me.

[@WheresWes]

yeah you're right

[@rafaelaarmijos5281]

I also believe that, i'm living in Medellín and yes, i have felt that way. I mean, colombian people, los parceros, are really friendly and kind and always welcome you with a smile... but it's not like they're you're friends...like here i have known a lot of people i can hang out with, but for some reason i feel like i can't count on them, like they don't really suport me...i can't explain it well... It's like they don't want to make deep connections, maybe for some people it's ok to have this type of friends that are cool and funny and that's all... but for me It Is important to have friends i can talk about my problems and all the ugly stuff, friends that actually care about me ando appreciate me, but i don't know, here it's just like they don't care about you at the beginning

[@WheresWes]

thank u for sharing. I share that sentiment

[@jumpman858]

I've lived in Medellin for 4 years and I'm in my 30s. It's cool to hang out with girls here and this and that. But it's true what you're saying- People are nice on a superficial level here. Most of the time, people are friends with you here to get something out of you.I also lived in Bogota and my friendships are night and day. Way better quality than in Medellin.

[@charlesbennett7688]

People cold 🥶