Colombiaexpats is a group for Americans, Canadians, Brits, Aussies and other English speaking people who are interested in living or visiting Colombia. The purpose is to exchange information and help people learn about Colombia.

After first considering Costa Rica as a place to retire and then moving to Panama 4 years ago and seeing both of those countries go to hell in a hand basket I finally moved to Colombia in June of 2009. I believe that Colombia is a far better country for Americans, Canadians and Europeans to retire. The cost of living is much lower, the people much more appreciative of us, the quality of life much better and the country much more beautiful and much more diversified, there's a climate or town for everyone. Colombia's main problem has been it's history with FARC and the paramilitaries, but those activities are now confined to very small areas on the frontiers with Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama in the jungles and mountainous regions. As long as you stay away from those areas you will be safe. Please try to limit your messages to Colombia although comparisons with other countries are welcome. Please refrain from personal attacks, it's o.k. to attack the message, but not the messenger. U.S. politics are a no no here unless it directly relates to Colombia. While some profanity is often necessary to make a point, it's continued over use will get you banned; satire, sarcasm and cynicism are usually much more effective.

If you have something to sell or a service to offer you are welcome to post a message about that on this group once a month, providing that you are a contributing member of this group. If you don't contribute, don't bother, this is not a free advertising service.

I live in Santuario, Risaralda and you each have a standing invitation to stop by and visit for a while. I only ask that you refrain from playing the "Ugly American" no matter what your nationality is.

Welcome aboard.

Clyde Jenkins aka oldmanandthesea