PROS and CONS of Living In Medellin
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- čas přidán 30. 07. 2024
- In this video, I go over the pros and cons of living in Medellin, Colombia. #expatlife #expats #colombiatravel
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In this video, I discuss the pros and cons of living in Medellin, Colombia. I highlight the low cost of living, social opportunities, and the ease of hiring local talent as some of the benefits. On the downside, I mention challenges with renting apartments, obtaining property loans, and concerns about a higher crime rate in certain areas. Despite the drawbacks, I emphasize that the pros have outweighed the cons for me during my 13 years in Medellin.
Highlights
💲 Low cost of living, making it attractive for retirees and expats with a monthly income above $2,000.
🤝 Abundance of social activities and opportunities to immerse in local culture.
👩💼 Easy hiring of local talent with English skills and the chance to offer competitive salaries.
🏠 Challenges with renting apartments, including the need for a local ID and co-signer for locals.
🏡 Difficulty in obtaining property loans as a foreigner, with a 30% down payment requirement.
🚨 Concerns about a higher crime rate in certain areas, despite improvements in safety over the years.
00:00 Intro
01:05 Cost Of Living
03:32 Social Life
05:20 Local Talent
06:59 Renting Apartments
08:00 Mortgage Loans
08:33 High Crime Rate
10:55 Outro
✅ FREE Moving to Medellin checklist. Download it here: medellinmasterclass.com/checklist/
On hills, where I live in Costa Rica 30 to 35% hills are common. Worst at 41 %. I have a 1200 Watt E-scooter that will do 38 KPH on a 20% hill. At 30% it is pretty much through though. Wonder how that works there.
What do you do for work??
I have a digital marketing company@@stephanfree250
@@MedellinBuzz czcams.com/users/shortsxXlP8fn3fW4?feature=shared
The biggest con for me (3 months in Medellín) was the extreme noise everywhere. Every bar wants to play their music louder than the next one. They put their speakers directly at the ear level of pedestrians, so your auricles flutter. I was walking with 3M Ear Plugs. Colombian people shout to each other, even they talk in a distance of 1 meter. Even if you are in a quieter district, there will be a salesman waking you up by shouting "aguacateeeee" in the early morning.
Haha yeah there’s always something.
The cart-based fruit vendors with the overdriven amplifiers coming up my street fifteen times a day nearly drove me out of my mind. In my neighborhood there were also security people with machetes on bicycles riding around the neighborhood, and beeping their bike horns for everyone to hear at 3:00 AM.
this is one of the reasons I stay in a higher income neighborhood. If you're up in the hills you get none of that. @@erikmarcus
Facts. The noise is another problem. I had to go to rio negro to find peace.
@@MedellinBuzz That might be true but I find it hard to believe you are immune to these little freaks and their speakers even in Alejandria/golden mile. They are everywhere just like the lies and scams and the abuse they dole out on innocent travelers looking for fun
This is refreshing.
No wonder you don't have tons of subs.
Most people that tell it like it is don't.
Yeah, that, and the fact that I just started the channel 3 months ago, I don't have videos of walking the streets peeping prostitutes, or walking through the "hood." lol
Yeah, I lived in Medellin for 5 years after having visited at least 20 times. I already speak Spanish fluently, having taken Spanish in school as it was required and I always dated Latina's in the states. Anyways, lived in Provenza in the best part of town, and one day I let my guard down and that's when I got robbed and stabbed. Luckily, I made it to the hospital in time before I bled out, so I was lucky to be alive. But it gets worse, when it was time to get discharged , the hospital administrator was going to have me arrested because I didn't have money to pay my bill (I had just been robbed of everything!!). Luckily the attending ER doctor was nice enough to pay my bill when the police showed up to take me to jail (for not being able to pay my hospital bill after I just got away with my life), and I went back the next day and paid him back. The moral of the story is that there is a HATE for foreigners (extranjeros) that did not exist when I first started going there back in 2014. Sure people will smile and want to be your friend, because if you are a good person with a good personality, that is attractive to people now matter where you go. But the tourism and the way it has affected the local population has created a resentment that will come back to bite you in the ass when you least expect it. I will be selling my place in Medellin this year because between the Velezanos and Colombians that work as gangs, they waited to strike when I least expected it. Ask Colombians about how they feel even about the huge influx of Velezanos, they are not happy about what that has done to the country the last seven years. Things in Medellin are going to get worse before they get better. The new mayor and the cops don't care about the foreigners. They know they can't thing with their heads and they'll keep coming, thinking nothing will ever happen to them. And the criminals get stronger, and the girls get more emboldened, and the cycle continues........ YOU WILL ALWAYS BE A FOREIGNER IN ANY COUNTRY YOU ARE NOT FROM, and with that comes racism and resentment. Don't shoot the messenger......... Good luck to all!
That´s true... unfortunately, Colombia -by several reasons-, isn´t a country accustomed to large groups of foreigners like Mexico or Perú. And due its economy, foreigners are seen as people with a lot of money than locals, so adding ingenuousness, that makes them a target for criminals. Mostly of colombian people is friendly AND sincere towards foreigners, but some few ones makes the bad point of all of these pros.
The problem is... Provenza and parque lleras is a turism place, with hookers and drogs, alcohol and party, is a place with a lot of crowds. Is imposible that a place like that to be a safety place. Poblado is too bigger than that, the other Poblado's places are more exclusive and expensive. Here in Medellín there are zones chipers and more safety than Provenza, but turist are not trying to get that, just luxury and party. If you wanna a exclusive place in poblado, you gonna need a car and around 2000 dollars for the rent. Also with 300 dollars you can get a common and secure floor in some neighbors, these places are far from down town and Poblado.
Sorry to hear you got stabbed, man. But about the rest of the things you said…good. You people are ruining our economy, our children, our men and women, people’s mentality, and you bring absolutely nothing to the table other than financial benefit to those who are already rich.
Hope the rest of the foreigners coming to Medellin follow your example and leave asap.
@@anfforero I'm Brazilian. What you said about hating foreigners is true. This is growing a lot in Latin America, especially Americans and Canadians because of the gentrification that is happening in practically all countries. Here in Brazil it's the same situation, many foreigners, especially Americans, are arriving every day as digital nomads and increasing the prices of everything because they have money because of the dollar. An American was attacked in Florianópolis and the reason was xenophobia (I would like to share the report here but the channel won't let me, so I'll copy a small part): 👇
"An American man Jeremy Klein, aged 25, was attacked by three young people as he left a nightclub in Florianópolis, in the early hours of Thursday, the 20th, and ended up receiving 20 stitches in his head. According to the Civil Police of the capital of Santa Catarina, the justification given by the boys to explain the attacks was the tourist's nationality. "These Americans come here and think they are at home", declared one of the young people, in an interview with local TV."
Brazil is famous for having friendly and welcoming people towards foreigners but things have been changing for a while. In fact, this racist and xenophobic thought always existed in Brazil, but before, people were afraid to say or even do stupid things. It seems that today people have lost this fear of committing acts of hatred against foreigners. Yet many Americans doubt this is happening here.
@@social5g yup have been in bello for 6 years , they look at gringos like Christmas ham
Crime is a HUGE issue. The fact that wages are low is only a part of the problem - the other part is cultural. One-on-one crime is a way of life in Colombia. Just because you are a friendly person, does not mean that you are a nice person.
I just made a video addressing this: czcams.com/video/7xw63B_SIdo/video.html
Sad but true. I always say watch the fake love. Especially in medellin, things become transactional and you don’t even know it.
@@kevinlanier2 That's a fact bro, you think you have a friend until the begging starts.
@@EsauistheCaucasian I’m glad I’m others are figuring it out.
@@kevinlanier2 Just go to Alemania bro, people there is could like you, but it does'n means people here in Colombia are fake. The true is... some of your people come here looking for drogs, hookers, noise, party, alcohol, obviously in that enviroments you gonna find someone bad, you shouldn't generalize.
Finally, an honest logical assessment of the crime element.
Thanks for keeping it real about the crime. I hate that "crime can happen anywhere" useless cliche on CZcams and travel blogs. Crime can happen anywhere, but it obviously happens more in some places than in others. In many cities around the world, you have no reason whatsoever to feel nervous when you see two young men on a motorbike in broad daylight.
Exactly well said its not the same
I currently live in El Poblado and I endorse this video. Even here in the Beverly Hills neighborhood I can never let my guard down.
cheers, keep that guard up.
If you live around Provenza and Parque Lleras, that is just a luxury turist zone. It is not Beverly Hills
love the fact that u are honest & u say it like it is on a personal & professional level we can all relate in 1 ways or another .,
always thrive to keep it real 👍
@@crvd1918Can you give some examples?
I always found the 8 hours a day, 8 days a month maid for $150 a little fishy
Thanks for the video Andrew. Always enjoy your content going back to your podcast days.
Thanks 🙏
The “can we get a brain and do better” comment in the first minute killed me 😂 Medellin can be so innovative while at the same time hovel. I love the duality though, it adds character lol. & Yes I’m Colombian
THIS CHANNEL IS SERIOUSLY UNDER RATED.. GREAT CONTENT.. IM MEXICAN EVERY MEXICAN THATS LIVED IN COLOMBIA FELL IN LOVE. BUT THIS MAN HERE IS TOTALLY 100 ON POINT..MUCHAS GRACIAS ❤
Hey! Que viva Mexico compadre. Thank you!
Good description bro, I never lived there, but have visited many times and I LOVE IT!
thank you
Refreshing honesty here - I lived and worked in Bogota for several years, and visited Medellin when I wanted better weather and people who didn't all seem to hate each other. 😄 It's possible I'll be back again one day - I'm tired of the grind in the US.
Good talk, very sincere conversation. I liked the fact that you did not try even for a second to hide facts about Medellin. Very informative, you have my respect hermano.
Muchas gracias parcero!
Always providing insightful information. Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Best breakdown I’ve ever seen/heard. Thx
Thank you!
it's a very interesting vlog on the issue of crime thanks for your info
It's great that you are honest and were able to succeed.
Thank you!
Awesome job Andrew soon i will be checking you out in MDE , stay safe Pancero !!
Nice, i'm sure you're going to love it!
Very good and informative video.
Thank you, I'm glad you liked it!
Yes. Even in Medellin, violent crime is rampant. In other big cities (Colombia) it's even worse. It's like you can literally smell it in the air...
Nah, not like that in Medellin, at least where I live. But there are dangerous neighborhoods.
@@MedellinBuzz It's for you. I assume, you can blend in. A tall, blond hair guy like myself is a walking target.
I don't need to look like a gringo to smell violence in the air. lol@@Sick_Buffalo
@@MedellinBuzz Manizales is much safer, IMHO. And yes, Paisas can be drop dead gorgeous 😇
@@Sick_Buffalo yeah I’ve been many times I do everything the city has to offer in a weekend and come back to Medellin.
Nice. Quick and efficient
What’s good fam. I’m new to your channel. You have a new supporter 👌🏾
Thank you so much!
Not planning to move to Colombia but will visit. Great information
Thanks!
What a great guy & honest! As an American I'm totally disgusted, disillusioned & pissed off that the US Government cold heartedly deported one of its own! Was there any way this could have been worked out to prevent this kind of tragedy? I'm glad you are a smart & resourceful guy!
Yes, I absolutely am to be held responsible for what happened. I was an adult, I could have done many things to secure my residency. Regardless, I view it as a blessing, my life is pretty amazing now, and I'm happy that I can share it with you. Thank you or the kind words!
Yep! Just thinking the same thing. This is the guy they kick out of the country?!?! 🙄
If you do not follow the rules, you can expect consequences.
@@ericlee2931 absolutely 💯
Thank u for saying that and taking accountability!! I’m still baffled abt th deported thing, but u are in “paradise” I’ve been there abt 10x. Great video!! I love that city, I was 2 steps away from living there, then a family situation changed everything! Your description and insight are 100!, thank u for Sharing this🙏🏽. Wishing u well and glad u have made the most outta your situation. @@MedellinBuzz
Great and real info 👍🏼
Thanks for watching!
Well done, you have a new subscriber!
Thanks Shane!
This is a good video. I appreciate it.
Glad it was helpful!
Just subscribed. Appreciate you being real. I hate when other CZcamsrs do not want to say anything about the crime there.
Hey, thanks a lot!
I am sorting my next big transition phase in life and really appreciate what you have been doing on here Andrew. I am a security pro (military and civilian experience) and have traveled a bit. Far too often, folks have a black and white view of places and the balance is refreshing. Medellín is pretty compelling, but I like that you are giving a better shot at coming in with a tempered perspective and helping people make an informed decision that is a good fit for their individual context. It feels like if people take some pretty basic protective measures and cue off local customs and practices (possibly even seeking local guiding/expertise to accelerate), the odds of trouble plummet. If locals dress without flashy jewelry, carry backpacks in front, avoid certain streets/neighborhoods, etc; at least be curious about the causes and effects of those local norms. Far easier to slowly relax a security posture as you gain knowledge and improve your ability to communicate and read developing situations, than to deal with the results of getting blindsided.
Yessir, that's absolutely right. It's interesting, I've had many military/contractors rent out my apartments. I've become good friends with a couple of them, great guys. Thanks for the comment, and good luck with your transition!
I agree, acting like a local reduces the risk - but at the same time you’re trying to avoid the unavoidable. Be careful! A man went to a business meeting, left late in the evening was asked by two stranded women for assistance - he woke up the next day in his car with no recollection of what happened to him. It took 3 days for the medical professionals to get rid of whatever drug they used on him. Again, be careful!
yeah, it sucks, but you almost have to have a trust no one mindset nowadays
@@gigioecu
Thank you for your honesty
Thanks 🙏
Medellin is a spectacular city, to visit. We stay for 3-4 weeks. No matter how well you speak Spanish and respect the culture, you are an outsider and a target. On advice from expats, we purchased all clothing in local stores, because American style threads and shoes are like having a bullseye on your back. If things go south, even by accident or innocent mistake, the consequences can be EXTREME! I love Latin America. The people, their style, their music, and their food. The fresh produce in Medellin is like ambrosia. The easy-going vibe is very relaxing, but the dark side is pitch black. We have that in America to some extent, but a foreigner in Columbia can expect to be treated like an outsider behind bola ocho. That's just the way it is.
This is a bit of an exaggeration. For example, I'm 6'3'' and I can't buy clothes locally here because everyone here is an enano, so I order all my stuff online via Amazon. Everything I wear, down to my LeBron's are US brands. Yet, I've never had a problem. People make themselves the target by hanging with the wrong people, and being careless.
@@MedellinBuzz also you’re 6’3” 😂
@@degensanonymous just a small guy trying to make it ☺️
Music is beyond horrible and so is the stupid language
American made clothes? Are they sold by unicorns? Never see any American made clothes anywhere. All Asian sourced
8:35 You explained this point better than anyone on the internet. I wish people could understand this before going to Colombia.
Thank you!
I was in Thailand for 9 months and trust me with all the positives there were many more negatives this is just speaking for myself, A country being very affordable plus beautiful easy women will not cover for everything else for the long term.
You’re not the first that tell me that.
Please expand on this!
I’m in the Philippines and want to move to thailand
Tell us more
Exactly. That’s my experience with Colombia. Easy women and cheap food and alcohol was good for years. Now, I’m not more advance in life because the economy there is awful and certain amenities in the USA and developed countries you just can’t sacrifice over cheap women and alcohol.
I will the PHILLIPINES would be tough to leave. Obviously the women are easy and beautiful, but they have a real sense of respect for foreigners. Now, certain ones will try to milk you for money for the family. The families are the problem there.
As a Colombian I tend to avoid big cities because of the cons mentioned, some of the smaller cities are way more safe and also pretty calm
This is true. Thanks for the insight.
Very good video
Thanks!
Tremendous title!
This was a great reality check vid on living in medellin. Do you have a pros and cons vid on living in cartanega?
Thank you
Great content sir! Fellow expat in Panama. 😉
Hey, thanks! I hear Panama is pretty great!
Great video with a good balance of info. Glad to see you are thriving down there
Very informative. On the crime topic, I’m always amazed when people talk about being able to leave their doors unlocked etc. I’m Irish and in my 50th year and I never remember a time when you could leave your door unlocked etc. Maybe we are just very untrusting, and untrustworthy, people 😂 I do fully except though the danger of mugging and violent crime is in general on a different scale though, even in the safest of neighbourhoods, thanks for the education 👍
Finally someone was honest and told the truth about how truly things are in Medellin, Colombia.
I was born in Colombia, moved to the states at 22 and have been living in the US for 26 years.
You could be in the wealthiest neighborhood in Colombia and your chances of getting robbed or kidnapped are high. Nonetheless; Medellin is a great city.
It seems things are going well for you in Medellin.
Good luck with everything.
Thanks my friend!
Yea I love medellin but it’s sad but the true, the wealthiest neighborhood is the most desirable for robbers because they know money and targets are there. In the USA you are protected better in wealthier neighborhoods because cops don’t play. I was bribed by cops once lol in Cartegena.
@@kevinlanier2 the police on the costa caribe especially in Santa Marta have been notorious for years for taking advantage of backpackers, extorting them and taking them to the ATM and threatening them with jail time if they don't withdraw money to pay them. This was especially the case in the past, maybe they've cleaned up things a bit in colombia but the police in santa Marta are the worst.
@rob3774 yes I was taken advantage by a Tinder girl. She did y mention money until afterwards. She was$90USD. I knew that was inflated in Colombia and I wouldn't pay to do her. I threw her out physically. The police came and insist I pay for sex.i told them that was the point, I didn't agree to pay because I didn't know. They refuse to listen, so I gave the money to the girl. She tried to get more, sad but true. They told her to leave. Then they proceeded to ask me for money to avoid an assault charge. I was thinking the corruption stories are true. I gave them $20USD each and they left. One had the irony to say $90USD for a quickie os alot. Be careful next time. I thought whatever. I left cartegena the next day and probably never go back. It's too hot anyways. Forget the beach.
hahahaha That is just wrong on every level. 15 years in Colombia and I have never even had an argument except when I went back to LA for a weekend. Been every inch of Medellin and the entire country. Colombians is always locked in the past. Name one example of a foreigner being kidnapped in MDE in the last 15 years.
If any of you want to compare Colombia with Brazil: News for anyone who does not know --
BRAZIL is the FIFTH country (low cost of living) among the whole American continent, in this category, very cheap.
I rent furnish, all furnish, and VERY VERY NICELY furnished place. Very comfortable. Full size kitchen, and a laundry room, balcony, garage (1 car garage) and in one of the nicer areas, safest, around.
My cost of living is now half of some of the furnished places in Colombia (Medellin), around $500 US. I even have a maid that comes into my home and makes a very DETAILED cleaning service of the whole home , and she comes twice a month to clean, and it is $20 US for each cleaning service.
My internet is also way better here. Food quality here is supreme in Brazil, ingredients (especially important if you cook your own food) are plenty and cheap. Brazil is one of the biggest grower and exporter of food across the globe.
Security in Brazil, if you pick the good regions/areas , is very good.
Just avoid living in Rio de Janeiro (tourist area) and avoid some areas in São Paulo. Stick to the more prosperous states and areas.
Brazil is VAST , SUPER VAST, and there are a lot of amazing options of where to go.
Where do you live ?
@@r3dp1ll State of Minas Gerais
But Brasilia is also great
FLORIANAPOLIS also
Fortaleza
Southern region
And lots more as well
@@naldebol Thanks ! Will visit someday. If you know spanish, how hard is it to learn portuguese ? I'm in Mexico
@@naldebol Hey I love MMA as well but that's the wrong video:D
@@r3dp1ll lmao, I had the wrong window up . I deleted .
I spent the last year in Colombia and love it. There’s more to it than Medellin. The smaller cities are safer. Great video.
Yep I love visiting pueblos and the smaller cities.
Tu sabes Espanol, que no? Saludo desde California@@MedellinBuzz
@@BongDonky si claro, saludos parcero.
Pereira!
Excelente vídeo! Eres el ejemplo perfecto de que puedes ser una estadística o un ejemplo para los demás! Love to pick your brain some time- You seem to have a lot of Amazing info 👍
Gracias!
great video, you must be doing well.
Thanks my friend. Yep, everyday is a blessing. Hope you're well.
Great video! A couple things you forgot to mention is getting drugged and robbed. Another thing is the vast network of organized crime and the police's inability to catch the criminals. The cost of living, rent, medicine, goods, services is absolutely amazing but I personally need a break from Colombia. I rather pay more for that feeling that I am safe or if someone does something the police will catch the criminals.
Yessir, those are all very serous concerns here. Thank you for that!
The drugged robberies can largely be avoided by listening the head on your shoulders rather than the one in your pants. No, those hotties on tinder and in clubs are not interested in your charming personality.
That’s why I’m not returning anymore. The drugging and robbing just is too much. Good luck with the police. I have a personal story about their corruption.
@@colettelongo2080don’t blame the victims. You know in the USA people don’t do that. I agree, but these guys didn’t know that going into that place. I tell guys now to avoid them whores, and know this country is poor and they looking for money only.
@@colettelongo2080second who are you to judge? I’m sure these men have mental issues that need to be resolved. How about thank god they are still alive.
Thanks for the video and be honest. I am from Colombia and living in USA for 23 years and i know what are you talking about.
Yes, Medellin has changed a lot. It is definitely better now than it was 23 years ago, but it still has aa mountain to climb to get close to what the US is like.
Same for me in USA with credit & renting. My credit score from Australia means nothing because USA uses different credit systems than most of Asia, EU & of course Australia. So I’m lucky I am married so can use this for renting, buying vehicles in my spouses name. Forget buying in USA im 46 & unless the market collapses I’ll be renting forever. My generation is the rent generation
great great video i live in Laureles YOUR 100 PERCENT . last year or so I have seen a women university professor point blank shot murdered by a fake rapid delivery on motor bike . He just rang the door bell and older lady came out and shot her . I was on my balcony and seeing it until today hunts me . I also seen a dead cop five minutes after being shoot a few weeks ago in Laureles . they did not even have an ambulance for him until 30 minutes passed he was dead by then
I liked this video.
Thanks I’m glad you liked it.
Thailand is way cheaper than Colombia and way safer. Nicer people and way better food. Last time in Thailand a massage was $6 in Colombia its $20
Yep, Colombia isn’t for everyone. Thailand sounds nice. Cheers!
Saludos desde Toronto. Fantastic video amigo. I've wanted to move to Colombia for many years. Unfortunately, never got the chance due to health issues. God willing, I plan to come for a visit in January. Is there a possibility of meeting with you? Perhaps we can collaborate on a few things. Thanks again for the great video and I wish you much success,....
aweasom bro love medellin usa has a big comunity now there
Yeasss
Hola! Gracias por el video, soy Chileno y en Enero del 2024 iré a vivir a Medellín por tres meses. Trabajar on line durante las mañanas y ver que tal es la vida allá, ya renté un apartamento amoblado y lo único que me preocupa es la seguridad y poder socializar con mas gente, encontrar grupos de amigos y cosas de ese estilo. Cuéntame, a que barrios de Medellín recomiendas no ir, al ser turista? También tengo muchas ganas de trabajar durante esos meses en algo part-time, que tan difícil es encontrar algo de ese estilo? Gracias denuevo por el video, veamos si nos tomamos una cerveza cuando esté allá! Jaja un abrazo.
Para encontrar grupos para conocer gente busca aca: mdecommunity.com
I love that you tell the truth, you don't sugar coat anything.
Where exactly were you born in Colombia?
Yep I’m technically a rolo 😭
@@MedellinBuzz a rolo oh dear!! 😂
@@MedellinBuzz that's great man.
Great information. Visited Medellin for the first in aug this year. Fell in love with the city and looking to live there part time now.
I live in a nice neighborhood in socal, and those days of safety are gone. The trend for organized crime is breaking in nice neighborhoods, bank juggling, etc. There are very few places left in this world where you can truly say it is safe. We just need to factor in the safety issues wherever we go. I travel a lot to south america, and safety is always on my mind. It is not ¨haiti¨bad.. just need to be aware, know where you are going, when, and with whom. Learn the laws of stupid: Don´t go to stupid places, in stupid times, with stupid people. You can get away with breaking 1 of those laws... but don´t break all of them at the same time.
That's too bad. I grew lived in Southern Orange County, California, in cities like Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Ladera Ranch, probably not fair to compare any city to those. Thanks for the insight!
I live in Fallbrook, Cali next to Oceanside and Vista. Coming from Orange county you must be familiar with Fallbrook. Or at least Oceanside. Salud!@@MedellinBuzz
Go to Dubai. That is the safest place I've ever been.
singapore, portugal, japan, switzerland, norway
@@seds94 And Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Russia, Poland, etc. The list of countries where you can give 'papaya' is actually pretty long.
I'm glad you persevered in Columbia, despite being kicked out of your adapted home of the US. Most people would have left with a bitter taste in their mouth, but then again, that could be the force that makes them strive to work harder. Quite frankly, all that blight and graffiti in Medellin is a turn off. Who wants to look at 'street art' and crumbling roof tile every time you walk out your front door. I've been to Latin America, and it's almost the same story everywhere. I lived in South Africa & Namibia which also has concentrated poverty & wealth. But I found it easy to find safe & clean neighborhoods for less than the prices you described living in Medellin. But I'm sure Medellin is a wonderful place with a lot of great people & culture.
Andrew British expat here. Am an offshore oil and gas man. Doing 30 days on 30 days off. Been living in the Philippines for 10 years but time for a move to Columbia. Is there any hardcore weightlifting/bodybuilding gyms around your area. I am not into the franchise gyms. Grown out of the weights in them places along time ago. I checked out the gym you go to on CZcams. Any advice would be appreciated.
Good video- seems like others liked it too.
I’ve watched it twice so far as its informative and compelling to watch.
It’s tempting but I just don’t see it being an option.
My favorite cousin married a Colombian and she won’t go back because she says it’s full of street crime and stress. My cousin has been there and really liked it.😅
But again, she who is from there - won’t go back!
I guess South Florida is pretty close to where she’s from - but safer!😅
Thanks for the video!
Yeah, many Colombians have bad memories of this place. Regardless, millions live here and wouldn't want to leave.
Good distinctions about safety in the way you discuss comparing neighborhoods here in Medellin to like neighborhoods elsewhere. Thieves make it a point to go to the better neighborhoods here 'cause that's where the money is. Still, every day in Laureles and from what I've seen when in Poblado I find it's more a question of beggars and poor people walking around selling candy, pens and stuff like that. Visitors and new arrivals ought to bear in mind that beggars are not always bums. Sometimes they can be decent family people with infants, legitmately uprooted from their communities by circumstances beyond their control such as in Venezuela. But sometimes even that is a scam. It's sad to see but after a while one learns how to differentiate. There's a huge difference between some glassy eyed addict and a way too thin man & wife who have stumbled in from the countryside or just came in fleeing from Venezuela.
Thanks for this.
I just told another person that here. I said it’s worse in the better neighborhoods in medellin compared to the USA. The police are just a cover. The robbers go to the poblado and laureles because that’s where the money is. It’s robbing 101. Lol
@@JWinchsadly I agree with that also. Another reason I couldn’t retire or live there. Poverty is real. If I’m the richest person, I have a problem.
I"m a single expat been living in Thailand for a year. It's definitely very safe and most Thai's are at least tolerant of the millions of expats here. Def cheap living I don't mess with the ladies thou, not my type. tbh I'm thinking about going to Medellin and S. Brazil as I'd really like to be around such friendly people. I understand it's dangerous I also understand to take the proper precautions. I used to live in Panama a long time ago but I don't want to go back as I think other countries in the America's would be a lot better. Here in Thailand I've been living the easy life and I think it'd be way better to experience some discomfort/struggle because along with this you will find the nice things in life.
Finally a real channel about medillin and someone who is not blinded by women.
Thanks a lot. I've been here for 13 years, have dated many women, and live an awesome life. I understand that many guys come out here to get laid, and many CZcams channels capitalize on that to make content for max views (and there's nothing wrong with that). I'm doing business, and want to attract like-minded individuals, so the content's gotta stay high quality.
@@MedellinBuzzyes you’re doing a great job. I’m very successful businessman here and I would do business with you because you’re seem to have substance and it’s not about the problems with women and prostitution which foreigners are only making worse.
I know right.
I’ve been in Medellin but I found plenty rentals outside of the city for dirt cheap so I’m gonna
Move out in a few months.
yep, I love the small towns nearby. Which ones are you looking at?
Outside of Rionegro.
@@BluuSkyz ah nice
Cool video. You seem to be cool to get to know. I’m thinking of moving there looking for a roomy 2bdrm furnished. So what areas clean a bit safe, close to shopping mall and transportation
Thanks. Yes, I made a video where I go through the el poblado neighborhood. I think it could help: czcams.com/video/x9KUUUXolK0/video.htmlsi=bxpXqLF1ZjsH52I3
Glad you mentioned hiring locals and paying a good salary. That applies to any country. I don't know what is wrong with Americans thinking they can go to another country and take a job away from a local. I retired to Panama in 2013, then Ecuador, Nicaragua and over 6 years now in Costa Rica. All have been great and retirement far better that possible in the US.
$2000 a month in monthly expenses is almost twice what it would cost in other expat areas, like Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Yep this isn’t a backpacker destination anymore.
i've been robbed, pickpocketed, and extorted colombia is no joke. i live here
That sucks
What happened to the Medellín podcast? Loved that show.
Hey, appreciate it brother. We stopped because it was to much of a production to put on. Regardless, Imma keep making videos.
The problem is... Provenza and parque lleras is a turism place, with hookers and drogs, alcohol and party, is a place with a lot of crowds. Is imposible that a place like that to be a safety place. Poblado is too bigger than that, the other Poblado's places are more exclusive and expensive. Here in Medellín there are zones chipers and more safety than Provenza, but turist are not trying to get that, just luxury and party. If you wanna a exclusive place in poblado, you gonna need a car and around 2000 dollars for the rent. Also with 300 dollars you can get a common and secure floor in some neighbors, these places are far from down town and Poblado.
I’m heading to Medellin in 2 weeks. I’m so tired of the US. I know Medellin is not perfect but I think I’ll be happy there.
Many people have made a great life here😊
@@MedellinBuzz I got here 3 days ago and I love it so far! Thanks for your videos. You give a lot of info I have been watching for a while now
@@marleythemermaidmelaninmon3185 that’s awesome! Really glad I to hear that.
I was in gym in poblado, left my cap for a bit on the ground and when I realized 15 mins later, it was gone..and that was a high end gym...But I still like medellin.
Haha yep
He seems really cool and smart.
Thanks 😊
Good video. First time watcher! I lived in Medellin in the late 80’s (I was on Carabobo near Plaza Botero when the bird was blown up)as a young man (i am American, no Latin roots). I have also lived in Quito, various places in Mexico (I have an Aloe Vera farm in Apozol, Zacatecas) and recently sold my house in Costa Rica of 20 years. During this time, I also ended living part time back in Medellin from 2005 to 2011. I had an in ice cream store in Itagui (not by choice lol long story). But lived in El Dorado area of Envigado. In all of my travels, (including Europe, USA, and Asia) I have to say I was, and still am, smitten with Medellin! Something about the city that got in my blood! (Been everywhere in Colombia also including the far reaches of Quibdo, in El Choco). Although almost everything you say is pretty spot on, I MUST say I would debate you on some of your crime opinion. I currently live in Washington, DC ( a house I have owned since 1984). The USA is completely insane right now. I noticed your video is 2 weeks old at this writing and wonder if you honestly have a clue on crime here. Being “Mugged” and being “Jugged” and murdered are really different. I live in a very affluent outskirt of DC and what was 3 years ago a place like you described..”SAFE”. Buddy, there is NOWHERE “safe” in the USA now. I’m sorry to tell you. Chances vs. Chances, I will take a mugging for my cell and a few dollars at knife point in El Hueco, over what we got here today, currently. I have seen serious poverty and desperation in my life (outside of the USA) in many many places (including Colombia) but one thing I always remember is there is not the careless Willy Nilly cold blooded murdering that is going on now. Latin America, is STILL fairly strongly, faith based. As you mentioned, they still have strong pride, loyalty and a sense of right and wrong! That is gone in the USA! Unfortunately..my home country! If you think crime is bad in Medellin? Go to Costa Rica! You have NO IDEA! 20 years owning a house there and I am done! It breaks my heart what has happened in Costa!
Anyway, I want to watch more of your video’s. I am very happy you managed to eventually make lemonade from lemons after being deported. Sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders. The friend I own the farm with in Mexico has a similar story as yours. He was brought to the USA when he was 1yrs old. Attended school, worked, everything. But never got his citizenship. Certain circumstances got him deported to Mexico where he had no family left and nothing to start from. My life has been blessed. Thank God. But I always remind myself of that and try to help others as much as I can. I am a rare gringo from the USA that truly can appreciate the plight and desperation of people around the world. The majority of Americans cannot fathom going to bed hungry or not knowing where your next meal or roof will come from!
☮
Dingus
Thanks for the insight!
Totally disagree with the narrative.
@@MedellinBuzzyou were right. This guy is old and clearly only been to Colombia in spurts. That place is much dangerous than USA. And he even mentioned DC. Obviously, an isolated city with high crime.
I've lived in NYC, Phila, Albuquerque and Wilm. Delaware, I can't believe that you're trying to convince people that US is not safe. Are you watching too much Fox News? You can't make comparison to a country that doesn't have enough police presence, a society numb to robbery and a mobile criminal element. Even with everything wrong with Columbia, I still want to visit and Medellin Buzz is giving good insight.
People who have never lived in a truly safe place do not realize the subtle toll it takes on you to be "prevenido" all the time. In Colombia there is a reason for the saying "No dar papaya"
Lots of foreigners walk in and rent. There are walk-arounds to co-signers: rent furnished!
Informative video. I was actually looking to buy some apartments a few months ago when I was in Colombia. But then actually the struggle begins. It's even almost impossible to open a bankaccount without DNI. Eventually managed to do so with my own European passport. So it also depends where you are or to who you speak.
But compared to other bigger cities in Colombia, Medellín is actually quite safe and relax yes. They've tried to rob me 4 times already, and had a fight with 2 ladrones in Bogotá, but never had any problems so far in Medellín. And been to quite some places in Medellín.
Well, the centre is not that great though. But areas like Laureles are verry relax.
Also been in Bogotá some time. But man, Medellín is really a relief compared to Bogotá. Bogotá really has a nasty atmosphere when it getting evening. Taxidrivers were surprised that I was still traveling around on my own late night and my Colombian friends did not dare to get out in the evening to catch a drink.
All those things were not the case in Medellín. And ofcourse, Medellín surely also has it's "hoods" nowadays. But Bogotá felt like one big ghetto....
Good comment. Thank you!
it seems all you do is complain then europe is cold and expensive and full of refugees
@@BO_Riddle Funny, because literally all you do in your comment is complaining.
Wow 13 years there awesome
👍
My nephew and I spent 10 days in Medellin We stayed in an apartment in El Poblado. We went everywhere and had no security problems. Of course El Poblado has a lot of security officers. Example there is one agent at all entrances at the malls and an officer about every 30 yards. When we went downtown on San Antonio street, one of the first things we noticed was the lack of security compared to El Poblado and Laureles. I don't think we saw on officer the whole time we were there. Two Black American roaming all over Medellin with no problems. But we did have trouble with Uber and Taxis. You are best to hire a private driver if you are going a long way or during rush hour. The only other problem we had was that my nephew was held up at U.S Customs. DWB. They said they thought he had drugs in his bag. A Black man coming in from Medellin, Columbia. Yeah he's got drugs.
You haven’t live there. It’s more dangerous in those tourist area than the others. By being black if you don’t obviously speak English, you are safer to f they think you are poor Colombian local. In poblado and laurels they know you are a gringo and they can target you. Police don’t mean nothing in Colombia. I was extorted by police in Cartegena. And why will robbers go to poor area when they can rob the better areas like poblado and laureles with more money chances.
Ironically it was the cia that handled the cocaine...even this day in afghan Uncle Scam and marines guard the poppy and bring in the H...I had a direct flight back to miami and they held and searched me for over an hour...hypocricy...😮
I've travelled to ~40 countries, and increasingly I'm mindful of the safety aspect so that I can enjoy my time there and not have a negative or life-altering experience.
Based on your experience and knowledge, what South American countries would be safer for affluent North American (English-speaking) tourists?
I had an epic 3-week solo trip planned to Chile in 2019, but that was derailed by the civil unrest that happened right before i was planning on visiting.
I do think that locals sometimes resent tourists for driving up the cost of living in the nicer areas, pushing out locals in favour of vacation rental properties. It's a legitimate concern, and i try to be a good traveller and spend money freely at local businesses - and tip well - when i'm in countries with modest and low average incomes.
I've never traveled anywhere else in South America, therefore, I'm not sure what place is safer. I haven't experienced locals hating on foreigners for driving up prices. There was a tiny political group that tried to push the whole "gentrification" agenda earlier this year, but that has failed miserably because prices on food and rent have increased everywhere in the country. People aren't stupid, and most Colombians don't trust the government to begin with. Being an affluent person living here, I feel generally safe. But everyone has to have their own experience.
Try Uruguay
Pollution, all mufflers on cars with no catalytic converters. Walking down the street you can’t breathe.
In Medellin? I'm literally walking down the street in this video...didn't fall over dead. lol@@darrinmacdonald9788
Hi. The CZcams algorithm sent me here, likely because I subscribe to the channel "Life with David" (He also is a long time resident of Medellin) . . . It would be interesting if you two did a collaboration (or even a Zoom call). I find that collaborations are good for the Creators, but also good for the viewers, as we get to hear a variety of viewpoints . . . .Thanks for your channel.
Hi, yeah David was on my podcast, Colombia Podcast when he had just stated his channel a couple of years ago. He's a great guy, love his channel. Maybe when he comes back from Mexico...and if he's not a big novela superstar, haha. Cheers!
Pretty much rule of thumb of safety is if you look for problems probably going to find that at higher level. If you don't go looking for problems than you probably be okay. Either way never had any major problems anyplace in Latin America (Been to Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Panama, Colombia, Argentina, Uruguay, Peru, and Brazil.)
That's exactly true. Thanks for that. I'll be going to El Salvador next year to surf. Looking forward to it.
that was my spot. You will love the surf!@@MedellinBuzz
How’s the internet connections? And is Wi-Fi normally accessible while out and about?
Hi, the internet is good for me. I have a 150 megas up and down. I live stream on this channel and on a gaming channel frequently for a few hours and don't have issues.
It is cheaper to live in a town with you family so you can save a great deal more, I spend like 100 usd a month
As an update I’m coming back to Medellin, at the beginning everything went smoothly in my town however after my house got full with relatives I had some issues with brothers and sisters
Do you need sponsorship to expat there long term? Great video!
You need a visa. But as a tourist from theUS you can stay up to 6 months.
Someone who's considering
Moving to colombia,11 I would be interested in knowing what things you did. When you first arrived back in Colombia after you were deported In order to Produce😊 $2200 a month income.
When I first got here I didnt make $2,000 month. I worked jobs here for local wages. The most I made per month was about $1,000. In 2013 I started gettng more freelance work (SEO work). I did cold outreach emails back then, and used sites like Odesk (which is now UpWork to get work from the states. Little by little I got more work, hired locals and started my digital marketing agency.
Big question is how do you ensure people pay rent on time or not even pay rent and stay there for free if we rent outside of Airbnb? The eviction process can be draining
I have a system. If you need a consultations you can check out the link in the description.
Hyundai and Kia seem to have done very well!
I am coming down Oct 10-24th if you want to grab a drink my treat for all the great videos you make.
Absolutely my friend. Hit me up when you’re here!
@@MedellinBuzz I am in Medellin now, don't you have a language exchange?
@@mawkishdave no not any more
@@MedellinBuzz If you are still up for a drink let me know.
Las Palmas is the Beverly Hills of Medellin. El Poblado is more like Hollywood including. North,East,& West Hollywood.
Good Video with valid perspective & opinions.
I mean technically, Las Palmas is in El Poblado. But yeah, there are some pretty exclusive homes up there.
@@MedellinBuzz It’s weird how they zone & divide that area .. if one Googles “Las Palmas” it will come up as the following (1)an independent sector, (2)part of Poblado, (3)part Of Envigado, & (4)part of Comuna 10. I guess it just depends on the location.
Too much crime for my liking. Thailand seems much safer and cheaper.
Yeah, it's not for everyone. Thailand seems great though. Good luck!
how hard is it to buy real estate cash? [I'm Canadian & have lived in Colombia over 3months previously]
It's a straight forward process I made a video about it here: czcams.com/video/T33FCn_JH2I/video.html&ab_channel=MedellinBuzz
what is local ID? how do you say it in spanish? i'm colombian with a cedula. is that the ID you are talking about?
Si una cedula
Best interest rates in US rn are about 8pts on new loans
Beverly Hills is the biggest crime scene in SoCal now. I’ve lived here since 93.
Everything changed in the last few years…….😢
Yes, crime is high in Colombia, most unfounded. But have you been to So Cal in the past year? I would not leave my phone in a Starbucks or my car unlocked etc. Things have changed. I visited Bogota and Cartagena a few months ago. I was careful, but never felt unsafe. But in LA? I fell very unsafe. I live here. Having said that, I enjoy your videos and learn from them. Stay safe.
SoCal is pretty big. My family lives in Rancho Santa Margarita, Ladera Ranch, Mission Viejo, and those places are way safer than most cities in the world. El Poblado doesn't compare one bit. That being said LA has some very safe neighborhoods, for example, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Los Feliz, Playa Vista, etc. It's easy to generalize, but once you actually look at the stats, most people would die to live in a safe neighborhood with million-dollar houses in LA over living in Medlelin, lol.
Just subscribed. What happened to the Medellin Podcast tho??
It’s done