Reasons to Leave Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats and Travellers

By Esteban Parcero •  Updated: 02/02/24 •  12 min read

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Reasons to Leave Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats and Travelers

The decision to leave Colombia can be influenced by various factors.

The economic situation, including high levels of poverty, unemployment, and underemployment, often pushes individuals to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Safety concerns stemming from conflict and violence play a significant role as well.

Additionally, cultural differences and challenges in integrating into local society may contribute towards the choice to relocate. Politics and corruption can also deter those who value transparency and integrity in government affairs.

Personal reasons such as pursuing work or personal growth, or maintaining family ties in another country, are also common motivations for leaving.

However, it is important to note that Colombia’s natural beauty, favorable climate, and rich culture are compelling reasons for some individuals to stay or become expatriates. Ultimately, the decision to stay or leave Colombia depends on each person’s unique circumstances.


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Reasons to Leave Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats and Travelers

In life, sometimes we find ourselves at crossroads. We all have our own personal reasons behind the choices we make, the paths we take. For some of us, these decisions might involve making a drastic change like leaving our homeland and venturing into the unknown. My focus for this post is on one such place – that is Colombia. We will delve into various factors that influence people’s decision to leave this beautiful yet complex country.

Economic Situation: Poverty, Unemployment, and Underemployment

Living in Colombia, you would be all-too-aware of the high levels of poverty, unemployment, and underemployment that are unfortunately prevalent here. These difficult economic conditions often act as catalysts for migration. Now that I think about it, even if you’re an expat or a local citizen dealing with a cost of living expenditure higher than your earnings can be daunting.

Violence and Safety Concerns

All things considered; it’s not just about economics though. Violence and safety concerns play an equally significant role in why individuals like you might decide to leave Colombia. The internal conflict between the government and guerilla groups including FARC (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia) and ELN (Ejército de Liberación Nacional) has resulted in not only internal displacement but also emigration.

Cultural Differences

Have you ever felt like a fish out of water? Cultural differences can evoke similar feelings making adapting to life in Colombia quite a challenge for some people due to its unique lifestyle or language barriers. You see problems arising when these hurdles prevent full integration into local society leading many towards exploring options of relocation.

Politics and Corruption

When I speak with my friends about living in Colombia, an issue that often comes up is the prevalence of corruption in various facets of society. This discourages individuals who value transparency and integrity, making politics another factor in the decision to leave Colombia.

Personal Reasons: Family Ties and Personal Growth

By the way, it’s not always external factors influencing this crucial decision. Sometimes finding work overseas or pursuing certain opportunities may necessitate leaving your country. Personal growth or maintaining family ties can also drive someone to consider moving away from Colombia.

Compelling Reasons to Stay or Become an Expat

In any case, it’s not all gloom and doom; there are reasons why one might choose to stay or become an expat. The spectacular natural beauty, year-round spring-like climate, a diverse culture rich with history and tradition – these features of Colombia are truly captivating for many.

Ultimately it boils down to individual circumstances whether one decides to stay or leave this enigmatic country. Nonetheless, these points have given us a holistic understanding of some popular reasons why people choose to leave Colombia.

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reasons to leave colombia

 

Despite the many spectacular reasons to visit Colombia, it may not always be the dream destination for everyone. Safety concerns can often make people reconsider their decision to stay in or move to this beautiful country. With articles shedding light on whether Colombia is safe to live, and if it’s safer than Mexico, you can delve deeper into understanding the country’s safety landscape.

Another source of apprehension might be how welcoming the country is for tourists from various ethnic backgrounds. It’s essential to know about a country’s stance on racial issues before deciding to move or even visit. Check out our post discussing if Colombia is safe for black tourists to get a clearer perspective.

Financial considerations are also crucial when contemplating leaving a place. The convenience of making transactions, especially through major platforms, can greatly influence the decision. Explore our helpful guides about whether you can use popular financial services like Revolut, Venmo, and Amex in Colombia.

Lastly, anyone thinking of leaving would want their fears answered honestly regarding any potential health risks prevalent in the region. Read about common diseases one might encounter while living in Colombia in our post, common diseases in Colombia. With proper precautions and knowledge, one can safely navigate these concerns.

My Personal Take about Reasons to leave Colombia

Hey there, amigo! It’s me, Esteban Parcero, your go-to guy for all things travel in Colombia. Today, I want to talk about something different – reasons to leave Colombia. Now, you might be thinking, “Wait a minute, Esteban! Aren’t you supposed to promote all the amazing things about this country?” Well, hear me out.

When it comes to traveling or living in a foreign country like Colombia, there are always ups and downs. As much as I want to highlight the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture and warm-hearted people that make this place so special, it would be remiss of me not to mention some of the challenges one may encounter. From language barriers and different customs to occasional safety concerns or bureaucratic headaches – these can all be valid reasons for some expats and travelers to consider leaving. But here’s the thing…

Let’s not forget that life is an adventure filled with both joys and hurdles. While it’s important to acknowledge any reservations one may have before embarking on a journey like this, we should never let fear hold us back. Every challenge we face brings growth and an opportunity for self-discovery. And trust me when I say that Colombia has its own unique way of turning those fears into incredible experiences. So instead of focusing solely on reasons why someone might leave Colombia someday, let’s shift our perspective towards embracing everything this beautiful country has in store – its mesmerizing landscapes from the Andes Mountains to stunning coastlines; its rich history woven into every cobblestone street; its welcoming locals who treat strangers like family.

In conclusion, my dear friend, don’t let potential setbacks deter you from experiencing everything Colombia has to offer. Yes, challenges may come your way, but remember that they are an integral part of the journey. They shape us, inspire us and ultimately make our travel experiences all the more rewarding. So pack your bags, open your heart to new possibilities and let Colombia be the backdrop for a chapter in your life filled with adventure, growth and cherished memories.

 
 
 
 
 
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Esteban Parcero

Esteban Parcero, a Puerto Rican, that has a deep connection with Colombia, which he considers his second home. He has been frequently visiting the country for over a decade, immersing himself in the vibrant culture, music, and cuisine. Esteban has made many friends in Colombia and particularly loves Medellín for its stunning landscapes, nightlife, and people. Through his travels, Steve has gained a unique perspective on Latin American culture and has become an advocate for promoting cultural exchange between different countries.

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