What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Colombia. They wrote...
"Expatriates in Colombia may struggle to adapt to the local culture due to differences in values and expectations. Societal norms favor hierarchical relationships based in respect and etiquette, with certain verbal and nonverbal gestures expected in certain situations. Colombia is also a collectivist culture, where the needs and interests of the group are placed ahead of the individual. This can be an adjustment for some expats coming from individualist countries. Additionally, communication styles vary from direct and frank to indirect, which can make conversation and communication in the workplace more difficult for expats," remarked another expat in Colombia.
"Finding a balanced social network can be difficult when you only hang with the Gringos," said a member in Medellin, Colombia.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Colombia?
- How do I meet people in Colombia?
- What is life like in Colombia?
- Is there a lot of crime in Colombia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Colombia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Colombia like?
- Is the cost of living in Colombia high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Colombia?
- What are healthcare services like in Colombia?
- Is the cost of living in Colombia high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Colombia?
- What is the weather like in Colombia?
- Are there good restaurants in Colombia?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Colombia?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Colombia?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Colombia?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Colombia?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Colombia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Colombia, newcomers to Colombia would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
