Why We Still Live in Colombia: A Deeper Perspective

Many of us arrived in Colombia by chance—we weren’t necessarily searching for anything. Some of us fell in love with the country, while others came for work opportunities. But why we choose to stay is an entirely different story.

In my experience, the people who can speak most intelligently on this subject are those who have fully immersed themselves in Colombian life, dedicating their time and effort to truly understanding and embracing this vibrant country.

Living in Colombia: Stories from Long-Term Expats

Building a permanent life in Colombia isn’t always easy—it takes patience, adaptability, and self-reflection to stay focused while establishing a livelihood. Yet, many who have made Colombia their home wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Here, a few long-term residents share their experiences and insights on why they chose to live in Colombia and what keeps them here

Richard McColl – Colombia Calling Podcast | Journalist & Hotelier

Originally from the UK, Richard McColl has lived in Colombia for more than 17 years and is widely regarded for his deep knowledge of renovating and operating boutique hotels in rural Mompox, Colombia. Splitting his time between Bogotá and the Caribbean region, he is the host of Colombia Calling, a long-running and well-respected podcast that explores Colombian culture, travel, politics, and daily life through in-depth conversations with locals and international guests.

Explore his work:

• 🎙️ Podcast: Colombia Calling

• ✍️ Website & articles: https://www.richardmccoll.com/

Barry Max Wills – Author, Storyteller & Coffee Farmer in Anserma, Colombia

Barry Max Wills is a writer and published author who has spent many years living in Colombia’s coffee region, where he and his partner cultivate fine Arabica coffee while exploring the cultural rhythms of rural life. Half Australian and half British (with deep ties to Colombia through decades of residence), Wills has chronicled his experiences in Letters From Colombia, a long-running personal narrative enjoyed by readers across three continents.

His memoir Better Than Cocaine: Learning to Grow Coffee, and Live, in Colombia blends humor, memoir, and cultural observation as it follows his journey from life abroad to becoming part of the Anserma community, challenging stereotypes about Colombia and offering vivid reflections on coffee farming and daily life in the Andes.

Explore his work:

• 📘 Book: Better Than Cocaine: Learning to Grow Coffee, and Live, in Colombia – https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/199608252-better-than-cocaine

• 🌍 Website & essays: Letters From Colombia – lettersfromcolombia.com/barry-max-wills/

Karen Attman – The Coffee Lady of Bogotá | Coffee Educator & Specialist

Originally from Philadelphia, USA, Karen Attman has spent over eight years living in Colombia, where she has built a strong reputation as a Colombian coffee educator and specialist. Through hands-on workshops and online education, she helps coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike deepen their understanding of Colombian specialty coffee, from bean to cup.

Explore her work:

• ☕ Online workshop: Latin American Coffee Academy

• 📺 YouTube: Watch here

Brendan Corrigan – Wrong Way Corrigan Blog & Podcast

An Irish expat living in Colombia since 2011, Brendan Corrigan is a well-known broadcast journalist whose witty and insightful takes on life in Colombia keep audiences engaged. Through his blog and podcast, he shares humorous anecdotes, cultural observations, and expat experiences that resonate with locals and foreigners alike.

🎙 Listen to his podcast: Anchor.fm
📝 Read his blog: Wrong Way Corrigan – El Tiempo
📺 Watch on YouTube: Click here.

Why We Live in Colombia

The following excerpt was part of a comprehensive report exploring long-term forecasts and investment opportunities in Colombia. 

After years of research, I have placed Colombia in first place for survival chances –for the following reasons (and this is just a sample of why):

1. OECD Nation with Strong Infrastructure – Colombia is a member of the OECD, boasting heavy industry and a highly developed healthcare system, ranked No. 1 in the Americas by the WHO.

2. High-Altitude Population Centers – Unlike most countries, 85% of Colombia’s population lives in the interior at higher elevations, offering unique lifestyle and climate advantages.

3. A Global Breadbasket – Recognized by international organizations as one of the top 10 breadbaskets of the world, Colombia has vast agricultural potential.

4. Year-Round Food Production & Energy Independence – Colombia’s year-round growing seasons ensure food security, while its domestic production of gas, crude oil, refined fuels, coal, and renewable energy makes it a self-sustaining powerhouse—an essential factor in times of global crisis.

5. Equatorial Advantage in a Nuclear Scenario – Located on the Equator, Colombia is naturally shielded from most nuclear cloud drifts, which tend to follow magnetic latitudes in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

6. Abundant Water Resources & Climate Protection – Colombia is one of the most water-rich countries on Earth, with pristine aquifers and freshwater reserves. Additionally, it is rarely affected by hurricanes or extreme weather events.

7. The World’s Most Biodiverse Nation – With the highest biodiversity per square meter, Colombia has the natural resources to sustain, reseed, and replant in times of environmental change.

8. Geographic Protection Against Conflict – Colombia’s rugged terrain creates natural barriers, offering strategic protection for core urban centers from external threats. Central Colombia has historically been seen as an isolated stronghold.

9. Latin America’s Best Electric Grid – Colombia has the most reliable and resilient electric grid in the region, with most of its infrastructure located safely inland.

10. A Resilient and Resourceful People – Above all, Colombians are known for their adaptability, ingenuity, and determination, continually overcoming challenges to build and protect their nation.

With these advantages in mind, let’s explore why we successfully live in Colombia more on Instagram: @CoffeeAxisLiving

VIP Expat Lifestyle Consulting

We closely monitor local trends and logistics to ensure expats have the most up-to-date, reliable information for living in Colombia—especially in times of uncertainty.

Our expert services include:
✅ Housing Assistance – We help you find the perfect house or apartment to buy or rent through real estate agencies and private sellers.
✅ Legal Consultation – Get access to trusted legal professionals to avoid costly mistakes and future headaches.
✅ Cultural Integration – Our education-focused approach ensures a smooth adaptation to Colombian culture, helping you build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.

📩 Contact us at least one month before your arrival for a seamless transition: coffeeaxistravel@gmail.com

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🔗 Learn more about retiring in Colombia