5 Expat Mistakes to Avoid in Colombia
Life in Colombia is an incredible adventure—if you’re up to the challenge. Everything you can imagine is possible—if you can avoid these five common expat mistakes.
For adrenaline seekers, Colombia is everything you’ve dreamed of. For those who prefer a laid-back lifestyle, the Coffee Axis offers charming cafés with breathtaking mountain views. But wherever you choose to settle, knowing what *not* to do is just as important as knowing what to do.
Mistake #1 – Wearing Shorts in the Mountains
Many Americans cling to the Jimmy Buffett *Margaritaville* image—flip-flops, shorts, and a cocktail in hand. But here’s the reality: Colombia isn’t just beaches and palm trees. Many regions, including the Coffee Axis, have cooler climates, and dressing appropriately will help you blend in and earn local respect.
In Colombian culture, shorts are for the beach. Wearing them in the mountains signals that you’re either a tourist or someone who doesn’t take local customs seriously. Want to make a good impression? Opt for long pants.
Bonus: fewer mosquito bites.
Mistake #2 – Giving Away Too Much Information
Colombia is the perfect place to master the art of mystery. When it comes to your financial situation, less is more. Stay neutral, dress well, and exude confidence—without flaunting wealth. This is exactly what Colombians do, and you’d be wise to follow their lead.
Avoid flashy brand names and extravagant displays of wealth. Look like you can afford to go out and have fun, but not like you’re financing the entire party. When someone asks about your financial position, downplay it and redirect the conversation. This ensures your friendships are based on genuine connections, not the contents of your wallet.
Tip: When renting an apartment, dress as if you’re applying for a loan. Looking responsible and successful will give you a serious advantage.
Mistake #3 – Letting Strangers into Your Home
Your home is your sanctuary—protect it. This is especially true if you plan to live in Colombia long-term. Be cautious about who you invite into your personal space, especially when dating. Keep things neutral until you truly know someone’s intentions.
Colombia has plenty of love hotels designed for privacy and discretion, so there’s no need to rush into bringing someone home. And remember: after five years of cohabitation, Colombian law recognizes common-law marriage, which means your partner may be entitled to half of your assets. Relationships can change over time—be smart and safeguard your peace of mind.
Mistake #4 – Not Learning Spanish
This should be obvious, yet many expats still fail to learn the language. Later, they complain about being overcharged by taxis or struggle with cultural misunderstandings.
Here’s a previous post we put together to help with some of the basics: https://coffeeaxistravel.com/spanish-grammar-for-expats/
Colombians are expressive, passionate people, and you’ll miss out on so much if you don’t understand their language. Music, poetry, and daily interactions all paint a vivid picture of life here—but only if you can decode it.
Tip: Push yourself to engage with locals. Order coffee, chat with storekeepers, or strike up conversations. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.
Mistake #5 – Isolating Yourself & Not Seeking Help When Needed
Many expats take pride in avoiding other foreigners, striving for total immersion in Colombian culture. But too much isolation can lead to loneliness. No matter how independent you are, there will be times when you need support.
Whether it’s visiting a doctor, handling legal matters, or communicating with a landlord, having a translator or consultant can be invaluable. Good communication isn’t just about convenience—it can save you money, prevent misunderstandings, and even keep you out of trouble.
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Conclusion
These are just a few of the common missteps expats make in Colombia, but they can be easily avoided. Moving abroad is about more than saving money—it’s about crafting a fulfilling life. The key? Embracing the adventure while steering clear of unnecessary pitfalls.
If you’re serious about making your move to Colombia a success, grab a copy of *The Expat Guide to Moving to Colombia*. Inside, you’ll find essential tax tips, cultural insights, and some of my personal contacts to help you navigate life here like a pro.
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