If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I have been there, and I have done that. I decided to move to South America in 2011 and don’t regret my impulsive decision. I encourage anyone considering moving to a new country to do so.
I enjoy this beautiful life I have created, and my days are always interesting, never dull, and filled with happiness and friendship. This may sound over the top to some, but I write my truth.
I don’t want to simplify my move because learning a new culture and language requires much work and perseverance, as I have written in my past blogs. However, I did it, and I am reaping the rewards every single day. I wake up to a beautiful view, go to bed with the lights of Cali, Colombia, in the distance, listen to birds singing all day, and sleep without needing heat or air conditioning.
I opened my hotel in 2015, and it is successful now. You must plan for your future in advance and be able to adapt to changing situations. When I bought my Villa in 2012, I had the idea of a hotel. It slowly gained customers, and I am always busy and occupied. My family and friends came here to see me. I have no desire to return to live in the United States.
I read a lot about those who want to relocate during these uncertain times in the United States. It can be done. I am a testament to that. The funny thing is, life is similar to where I once lived, to how I live now in my small town in the countryside of Colombia. I have a lot of friends, and they always return once they visit the beautiful resort I have created.
My days go by fast, and my life seems to go by too fast as I get older. I want to cling to my life like a life preserver, to enjoy every second of every single day. I always envisioned a time when I would be retired. I thought it would be days to do whatever I wanted without stress. What I have found is very close to that vision. I do what I want, but I am always energized.
Being one of a few foreigners in my area of Colombia gives me a reason to practice my Spanish and allows those who engage with me to practice their English. I always go to the bank or a store and have someone come over to chat with me. They always ask where I am from. I love to reply; I am from Colombia now. The Colombian people are the most engaging people; I am so grateful for that. I always have a business card because everyone is intrigued by my story. I love to explain that I am applying for citizenship now. Colombians love that for me.
Amazingly, my story still surprises me, and I am proud of my accomplishments. I have a life that many would yearn for. If you are considering moving to another country, please write a question for me in the comments. I will answer any questions that you may have.
Hummings from Paradise 
This is beautiful. If you do apply for Colombian citizenship, can you keep the USA? My son lives in a foreign country that does not allow dual citizenship so check with lawyers, etc. He pays astronomical taxes as a USA citizen living abroad. Good Luck!! Lucy, a facebook friend!
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Hi Lucy. Yes I can have dual citizenship here. I have 2 neighbors who are Colombian and have American citizenship too. A dear friend who is dual also. Thanks for your great question.
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Columbia is amazing. At least what I’ve seen 🙂
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Yes it is! Remember Colombia is spelled with 2 O’s. The people will correct you. I am still discovering new places to visit. Thank you for you comment 😀
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Yeah it was talk to text:(
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I’ve visited Medellin and my boyfriend traveled all over
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I love Medellin! I have been twice. I am trying to go somewhere new in Colombia everytime I get a chance.
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I recall being so excited for you back in your early days . I have strong desire to leave the US. My brother is in Mexico -a resident. It does not seem as right to me …my gut feeling says Columbia! I could get Irish Citizenship so there’s that too. I owned and loved Paso Fino horses in the 80’s-90’s. Most Columbians went back home after promoting the horses. The first man I bought from is on a GORGEOUS ranch outside of Bogota .Hmmm I am dreaming…or am I? I know a tiny bit of Spanish… ugh. So you are only now getting citizenship?? I thought it was fairly easy to be a resident or citizen? I am 71 , healthy and running a small farm-How is healthcare and do I qualify? I have 4 dogs I cannot leave . Can I bring a couple of goats??? I know it sounds crazy but… I know a great Mexican transporter who wouls bring them but good grief the cost… jaja
Ellen
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Hi Ellen. First of all I must correct your spelling of Colombia, there are 2 O’s. Now on to your questions. I have always been a resident here, after 5 years of regular Visas, and am now getting my citizenship. It depends on the Visa you go for as to how difficult it is. The pension Visa isn’t difficult. Citizenship can be obtained after residency and it takes a while to get it. I have excelente health insurance, but I think after a certain age , maybe 55, it isn’t available. However, there are many insurances here, you would have to research that. The healthcare here is the best I have ever had. Yes, you can bring your dogs but there are rules for that too. I brought 5 animals with me. I don’t know about the goats. Anyway, I adore my life here. It is peaceful, filled with wonderful friends, and I am never bored because of my business. I didn’t speak Spanish when I came but I am fluent now. It isn’t easy to learn a language.
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Thanks . Oh my…yes I knew about the “O” in the spelling but have been communicating a lot with a friend in South Carolina in the city spelled like that and got my wires crossed. haha. So as a resident I would purchase health insurance there, correct? Then if one is a citizen someday ..it is provided? One hates to consider “life” based upon insurance when older but somehow it happens! I will research on the animals. it is a BEAUTIFUL country with a climate that suits me. I love Mexico too …it is developing anti-American sentiment (who could blame them?) due to the 3 million expats creating rising prices in many places.
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Insurance is not free here. Although very reasonable in price. It is very affordable. Once you get your first Visa you can obtain a cédula which is the country ID card. With that you can get Colombian Insurance.
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