American Women Abroad: Is Colombia the Better Choice Than Europe?

American Women Abroad: Is Colombia the Better Choice Than Europe?

In recent years, we’ve seen a trend of American women deciding to move abroad for a better quality of life, often choosing Europe as their destination.  A recent article in the Daily Mail titled “The American Women Fleeing the Country ‘for a Better Life” explored the motivations behind this movement, highlighting factors like affordability, political climate, and overall lifestyle.  But while Europe has its charms, Colombia – especially the dynamic capital of Bogotá – presents an incredibly compelling alternative that’s closer, more affordable, and offers many of the same advantages that women are looking for overseas. Here’s why Colombia deserves a place on your radar if you’re dreaming of a fresh start abroad.

Why Colombia Over Europe?

Europe is often seen as the classic go-to for Americans looking to reinvent their lives abroad. However, moving to Europe can be costly, distant, and challenging to manage for those wanting frequent access to the U.S. On the other hand, Colombia offers an appealing middle ground, providing a cosmopolitan lifestyle, a reasonable cost of living, and easy access from major U.S. cities. Bogotá, in particular, provides a vibrant urban experience with modern amenities, a welcoming expatriate community, and rich cultural offerings.

Groups like She Hit Refresh on Facebook – an online community for women over 30 seeking new opportunities abroad – are filled with members sharing tips, advice, and support for relocation to Europe. While European countries are popular topics, Colombia is increasingly recommended by women who have found the transition to be more accessible and rewarding.

Stories of Women Finding a New Life in Colombia

The Daily Mail article showcased the stories of several American women who sought change and found it by moving abroad. In Colombia, many expats have shared similar experiences, finding a supportive community on Facebook for expats in Colombia and an affordable lifestyle that makes it easier to focus on personal fulfillment. Take, for instance, Sara Burdick, who moved to Colombia and now writes about her experience living on a small coffee farm in the countryside on her blog and Youtube channel. Her story highlights why she left the USA, and the unique, affordable lifestyle that Colombia offers – she lives comfortably on a small budget in a tranquil setting far from the hustle and bustle, proving that life in Colombia can be both affordable and deeply fulfilling.

As for me, I met a couple young single women traveling through Colombia on their own almost 20 years ago. Back then, Colombia was just emerging as a viable travel destination, and today it has become even more appealing, offering both urban vibrancy and rural retreats to fit different lifestyles.

A Financially Savvy Choice

One of the biggest draws to Colombia is its affordability. Even in Bogotá you can live for less than any decent size city in the USA. Whether you’re looking for a chic apartment in Rosales, a bustling social scene in Chico, Zona T, and Usaquén, or the eclectic charm of Chapinero, the real estate options in Bogotá are attractive and accessible. Compared to Europe and the U.S., property prices here are refreshingly low. A comfortable apartment in a popular neighborhood can cost a fraction of what you’d pay in cities like Paris, Madrid, Miami, or even Seattle, allowing you to invest in your lifestyle without straining your budget.

High-Quality Healthcare at a Fraction of the Cost

Healthcare is another major factor when considering relocation, and Colombia consistently ranks high in quality and accessibility. With private healthcare in Bogotá costing a fraction of what it does in the United States, expats can receive excellent care without the financial burden. Bogotá’s public hospitals and clinics (private hospitals) are known for modern facilities and highly trained professionals, many of whom have studied abroad, ensuring that expats can access top-quality care.

Safety and Security: A Sense of Peace Abroad

Safety is understandably a priority for American women considering a move abroad. While Colombia still grapples with certain misconceptions, Bogotá has emerged as a vibrant, cosmopolitan city where many expats feel secure and welcome. In fact, on recent visits back to the U.S., I had an unsettling level of tension in certain areas, even in my old hometown, that made me feel uneasy. I could not wait to return home to Bogotá where I felt a sense of relief and stability.

Climate and Natural Beauty

One of Bogotá’s lesser-known charms is its mild, “eternal fall” climate, with temperatures averaging between 60-68°F. Occasionally it even gets up to 72°F and is hot when you are in the sun. This makes it easy to enjoy the city’s parks, historic districts, and beautiful neighborhoods year-round without the extremes that many U.S. and European cities face. And for those who crave nature, Colombia’s diverse landscapes are within easy reach, offering a range of climates and scenery, from lush rainforests and coffee regions to tropical beaches and the dramatic Andes mountains.

A Cosmopolitan, Walkable Lifestyle

In Bogotá, it’s easy to enjoy a lively, cosmopolitan lifestyle that’s also walkable. Neighborhoods like Rosales, Chico, Zona T, Chapinero, and Usaquén offer a unique combination of walkability, green spaces, and social hubs filled with cafes, shops, and restaurants. With a rich cultural scene, Bogotá is perfect for those who want an urban experience without the car dependency mentality found in many U.S. cities.

The Allure of Colombian Cities

• Bogotá: The bustling capital city offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic colonial architecture. It’s a hub for culture, arts, and business.
• Medellín: Once known for its troubled past, Medellín has transformed into a vibrant city with stunning urban landscapes, innovative architecture, and a thriving arts scene.
• Cartagena: This historic port city is renowned for its colorful colonial buildings, new skyscrapers, beaches, and lively nightlife.
• Cali: Often called the “Salsa Capital of the World,” Cali is a city known for its music, dance, and vibrant culture.
• Barranquilla: A vibrant city known for its lively carnival celebration, delicious food, coastal weather, and rich cultural heritage.

Why Colombia Could Be Your Ideal New Beginning

American women are increasingly choosing to relocate in search of a better quality of life, and Colombia offers a refreshing alternative that’s closer, more affordable, and uniquely vibrant. With Facebook communities that support those who decide to make the move and inspiring stories from expats like Sara Burdick, the support network for women moving abroad has never been stronger. If you’re thinking of a fresh start that balances affordability, accessibility, cultural richness, proximity to the USA, Colombia may be the perfect destination for your new beginning.

Whether you’re a retiree, digital nomad, or just someone ready for a new adventure, Bogotá offers a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost of many U.S. or European cities. If you’re seeking a fulfilling life abroad, Colombia could be the ideal place to begin your next chapter. Start packing your bags for your fresh start abroad.

See my other articles at PremierLifeBogota.com about living in Bogota, Colombia

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