Colombia Lifestyle and Culture – Insights from Long-Term Expats

Welcome to our take on Colombian lifestyle and culture in the Coffee Axis, shaped by over a decade of firsthand experience. Since February 2013, we’ve lived here continuously—immersing ourselves in the people, traditions, and even the challenges that define life in Colombia.

Unlike seasonal expats who come and go, we’ve stayed through every high and low, giving us a deeper understanding of what it truly means to live here. Beware of so-called “experts” who spend only a few months a year in Colombia yet claim to know it all. True insight comes from full-time immersion, not fleeting visits.

Of course, this is just our perspective! We’d love to hear yours—drop a comment below and share your experiences with Colombian lifestyle and culture.

Colombia Culture and Lifestyle in the Coffee Axis

Colombians often joke, saying, “I don’t like the Rolos, Costeños, or Paisas,” yet despite these regional differences, they share many common behaviors and perceptions. Let’s take a moment to step back and make some informed generalizations about Colombian culture.

Our experience has been 90% immersed in Paisa culture, which is deeply connected to agrarian life, coffee production, and a fondness for aguardiente. Paisas are also known for their sharp business tactics and resourceful, community-driven approach to life, creating a distinctive and vibrant culture in the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Axis. 

You Are Rich – But It Comes From Colombians Living Abroad

Living the Colombian lifestyle as a foreigner can be challenging, especially if you’re light-skinned with blue or green eyes, as you’re often perceived as wealthy, regardless of your actual financial status. This perception doesn’t change no matter how casually you dress. In fact, many Colombians reinforce this image through their own desire to show off their prosperity from living abroad. To navigate this, we recommend wearing dark sunglasses and dressing in a way that helps you blend in.

When a Colombian family member returns home after spending years abroad, they often go all out to display their success, spending every dime they’ve saved. This can include lavish family dinners, trips to the coast for beach getaways, and buying extravagant gifts. Given this cultural tendency, it’s no surprise that foreign residents and visitors are often expected to demonstrate similar levels of prosperity.

You Must Speak Spanish, But Many Understand English

Spanish is absolutely essential when living in Colombia. Many of the newer millennial generations from middle-class and upward families have attended bilingual schools or studied English, but their proficiency often depends on their personal interest and their parents’ investment in their education. Even so, most people won’t openly admit to understanding English, and many are embarrassed to speak it unless they’re confident it’s “perfect”—though, of course, perfection is subjective.

Be very cautious with how you speak in public. Even if someone claims not to understand English, they may have a basic understanding and could pick up on what you’re saying. You don’t want to risk offending anyone by talking openly or negatively, especially about sensitive topics. Additionally, always keep your voice low when discussing personal finances, such as how much money you have or plans to visit the ATM. Someone may be listening and could be making mental notes or plans based on your conversation.

Despite the growing number of English speakers, many services and businesses in Colombia still don’t offer English as a skill. As a result, you may need to hire a translator or guide to help you navigate the local scene and find what you need, after which you’ll be expected to manage on your own.. 

They Love Their Own Food, and Italian or Fast Food

Colombians living abroad often go out of their way to find a restaurant that serves the foods they’re used to or, more commonly, they’ll cook at home. This is likely why they’re able to save as much as they do.

Since Colombian cuisine relies heavily on simple ingredients like fresh fruits, vegetables, rice, and meat, many Colombians can save money by avoiding processed foods.

For breakfast and lunch, even when traveling abroad, Colombians often seek out an “Almuerzo Ejecutivo”—a traditional meal consisting of soup, rice, meat, salad, and a drink. This affordable, hearty option not only helps them save but also offers a fantastic way to experience Colombian food culture, especially when visiting the region

That said, more exotic foods like Italian (pizza/pasta), burgers, and even Arabic or Chinese cuisine are typically reserved for special occasions or enjoyed during dinner. For breakfast and lunch, most Colombians prefer to eat at home or at a típico restaurant, where traditional dishes dominate.

Colombians are not particularly fond of spicy foods, such as Mexican or Thai cuisine. Even when these dishes are available, they are often “Colombianized” to suit local tastes.

One of the biggest complaints from foreign residents is the perceived blandness of Colombian food. While this may be influenced by the heavy use of salt, sugar, and condiments in other cuisines, it also largely depends on the quality of the kitchen and how the food is prepared.

Colombian Lifestyle Food Hack #1

The best típico food in Colombia is often found in rural areas, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and especially those that cook with wood fires (leña). For an authentic experience, seek out places run by people who are truly “casero” or homestyle cooks, as they offer the most genuine insight into local cuisine. However, don’t expect to find this kind of food at commercialized restaurants. Instead, head to food distribution plazas, affordable neighborhoods, and roadside eateries for the most flavorful and authentic dishes.

Colombia Culture and Lifestyle When Dating

Dating in Colombia can be as complex as it is exciting. While you might feel lonely when you first arrive, it’s essential to take your time getting to know the people around you before diving into the dating scene. There are many cultural nuances and hidden challenges that can impact cross-cultural dating.

For every successful couple, there are countless nightmare scenarios. Even if someone dates you because of genuine attraction, they might face pressure from their social circle to take advantage of your foreign status. In some cases, even if they’re not that interested, their family might be more intrigued by the potential benefits of a relationship with a foreigner.

n Colombia, as in many cultures, people don’t often get rich by simply being “honest, good” individuals. In fact, some of the most genuine people we’ve met—whether in friendships or relationships—tend to be from the middle class. The lower class is usually focused on finding opportunities to escape poverty, while the middle class is working hard to stay afloat, grow businesses, or improve their social standing—much like in many other countries.

When it comes to dating, financial support is often expected, especially in more serious relationships. This is particularly true if the woman is a single mother, as she may rely on extra help to manage her responsibilities. If you’re not willing or able to offer this support, there’s a good chance she’ll look for someone who can. While there are exceptions, this expectation is particularly pronounced in smaller towns where opportunities are limited. Even many men may seek the financial stability that comes from a relationship with a foreigner.

To navigate this, it’s best to take things slow. The more traditional and respectful you are in your approach, the more likely things will go smoothly for you.

Working in Colombia: What You Need to Know

Your ability to work in Colombia will ultimately determine whether you stay or leave. Whether you plan to run a business or work independently, success requires a strong understanding of the local landscape. Employees often expect raises, assuming you can afford it, even if their performance doesn’t warrant the increase. Outside of teaching English, finding work can be especially challenging.

The ideal situation is to have a steady source of digital income or a retirement upon arriving. For people like us, who must work to survive, it’s a constant struggle due to the limited value this culture places on labor. As an employee, you may find yourself underpaid, and as a business owner, you’ll likely face high taxes

Whether you stay or go in Colombia will ultimately depend on your ability to navigate the work environment. Running a business or working independently in this country requires a great deal of savvy and understanding. Employees often expect raises, assuming you can afford it, even if their performance doesn’t justify the increase. Outside of teaching English, finding reliable work can be especially difficult.

The ideal situation is to have a source of digital income or retirement when you arrive. For those who need to work for a living, it can be a constant struggle due to the lack of value placed on the labor of others. As an employee, you may be underpaid, and as a business owner, you will likely face high taxes.

The best option is often to offer services. If you open a restaurant or café, you will likely end up working long hours, as you must be present to ensure employees are following through on your instructions. In many cases, it might be more practical to do the work yourself rather than depend on others to manage it.

Even if you offer services, working with Colombians can be challenging. Many will go to great lengths to secure a discount or find a more competitive price, often prioritizing cost over quality and value—something that may differ from your expectations.

For more insights on owning a business or doing business in Colombia, check out our detailed resource: Business inColombia is Tricky.

Real Estate in Colombia

Another challenging topic is the way Colombians build homes and structures, which is often very different from what we might expect

The farm featured in the pictures is for sale. For more information, CLICK HERE: Investment Real Estate inManizales.

In Colombia, you’ll notice some differences in home design. Countertops tend to be lower, as the average height is around 5 feet, not the typical 6 feet. Bathrooms are smaller, and you may find yourself with your knees almost touching the walls. Bathtubs are rare, typically only found in older, high-end apartments. Hot water is usually provided by either a gas/electric-run heater or an electric shower head.

The way laundry is done in Colombia is also quite unique. Many people prefer to hand-wash items like bras, underwear, socks, and briefs. Clothes dryers are not common, even in higher-income neighborhoods. Most houses and apartmentsinclude a wash rack and water holding tank, especially due to frequent water shut-offs and the need for hand-washing clothes

Garages and yards are uncommon in most major cities and larger towns in Colombia. While you can find houses with yards, it will require significant time, effort, and a much higher cost per month. Space is a luxury in this culture.

Colombians don’t typically store large quantities of food, so don’t expect spacious pantries. Even refrigerators are often smaller and may not include an ice maker. Most kitchens also lack a functioning oven and may not offer much counter space. Even the sinks tend to be on the smaller side.

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Find Your Big Shade

In Colombian culture, there is a concept known as “sombra grande” or “Big Shade, which refers to the support systems that play a vital role in a society where who you know often outweighs what you know. Especially if the country becomes more dangerous, having friends and relatives who can help guide and protect you is essential to staying out of trouble.

This is especially important in smaller towns, where everyone knows everyone. Your friendships and connections can provide safety, even if you find yourself unintentionally involved in a dispute or an uncomfortable situation with a drug addict, mafia member, or an unruly street person.

As a single mother, I’ve experienced situations where the people I associate with protected me in unconventional ways from individuals or situations that the police or society might not be able to address. Over time, you’ll come to understand the importance of having the right connections in specific situations, especially when you’re being bothered or threatened.

Wherever you go, finding a tribe or support system is always crucial and, in some cases, even life-saving—especially when navigating Colombian culture and lifestyle.

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Conclusion

This is a brief overview of Colombia’s culture and lifestyle. Of course, there are many other aspects to consider. It’s important to truly understand their attitudes toward life and foreign residents. Traditionally, expats were often people of means, owning a second home abroad or married to a foreign spouse who maintains strong cultural ties.

New Wave Expats are arriving in Colombia more as economic refugees, yet they are often treated the same way as the previous category of residents. This can lead to cultural conflicts. While you can avoid many challenges by learning to live like a local and minimizing complaints, you’ll likely always feel somewhat like an outsider, even if you marry into the culture.

The Coffee Axis offers a wealth of places to explore, with Pereira and Manizales being top highlights. But don’t hesitate to ask us about other hidden gems that we believe hold unique potential!

We also offer a VIP Lifestyle Tour, designed to help you find everything you need while avoiding common pitfalls. Feel free to reach out to us via email at coffeeaxistravel@gmail.com or on WhatsApp at +57 312 794 8245 to schedule your personalized introduction to life in Colombia.

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