Retire in Cali, Colombia

"Cali is a vibrant and lively city in Colombia that is full of culture, recreation, and nightlife. The city offers a host of activities and attractions that appeal to people of all ages and interests, including retirees. Cali is home to many expats from all walks of life and a strong expat community who enjoy living in the region. With its tropical climate, Cali’s vibrant nightlife, varied cultural attractions, and wide range of recreational activities, there is something for everyone, making it an ideal place for retirees to live. The bustling Barranquilla region nearby offers retirees a chance to explore the coastal culture and sample some of Colombia’s tasty local cuisine. Cali and its surroundings also boast stunning beaches and lush mountain towns ideal for a daytrip or weekend getaway. With active communities, quaint towns, and beautiful landscapes, this region has something to offer everyone, including retirees," remarked one retiree in Cali, Colombia.

"I've yet to see any sort of "expat community", but as my husband IS Colombian, as of now, this hasn't been a problem. As far as Cultural, Attractions, Recreation, Nightlife? Well, we have had the opportunity to travel ALL throughout Colombia, as the money conversion is amazing right now. We're even taking a 7 night cruise out of Cartagena in October... just awesome," said a retiree who moved to Cali, Colombia.

"One idea... I DID discover from the Social Security office is, that IF you are able to keep a US Bank Account & have your SS deposited THERE... you will NOT have to worry about this "Are You Still Alive" document they send out every few years. This was a HUGE concern for me... from reading all the Blogs, I was terrified that I would MISS receiving this document, you only have a month or so to return it & if they don't receive it, YOU'RE DEAD & have fun getting THAT reversed. I guess the last thing I think. I'm thinking that a lot of MY retiring process to Cali, Colombia is easier than the average person in that I have my Colombian husband. I have been able to more easily accomplish things because of our marriage. Good luck & if you decide against Colombia? My advice is to NOT rule out someplace... the rewards are amazing!!," said a person in Cali.

"Retirees in Cali advise others considering retiring abroad to research the cost of living in the area they are considering, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. They also suggest getting to know the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, they recommend finding a community of other expats to connect with and to help with the transition. Finally, they suggest taking advantage of the many outdoor activities and attractions that Cali has to offer," remarked one retiree in Cali.

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Cali, Colombia is acclimatizing to the climate and rugged terrain of the region. The weather can be very hot and humid, with the Andes mountain range only an hour away. The high altitude makes it more difficult to adjust to a new lifestyle and perform everyday activities. Furthermore, the terrain can often be unpredictable and include hazards such as landslides and flooding. Cultural differences can also be a challenge for foreigners. Language and custom barriers can mean that communication is difficult and it can be difficult to navigate the bureaucracy and process of obtaining a residence permit or financial services. The cost of living in Cali can be higher than in other parts of Colombia, so retirees may need to more carefully budget their resources in order to make ends meet," said one retiree in living in Cali, Colombia, Colombia.

"Retiring in Cali, Colombia affords one the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the country's lush tropical landscape, as well as its vibrant culture and rich history. There are ample opportunities to socialize and make new friends, while the low cost of living makes affording an enjoyable lifestyle much easier. Taking advantage of the area's excellent health care services and ample recreational activities can extend one's quality of life. Additionally, Cali offers mild temperatures year-round and breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal location to enjoy the best of retirement," explained one retiree living in Cali, Colombia.

"We have a FULL Medical/Dental policy that costs us about $31 US dollars. My husband recently had an emergency when a bone from some soup got lodged in his throat. He went to the ER at our Clinic, was sent for X-Rays, they were unable to unlodge it. He was then sent to a specialist at the Hospital. They were finally able to get it out. TOTAL Co-Pay.. ZERO!!," commented one retiree living in Cali, Colombia.

"Cali offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. The city has several public and private hospitals, as well as numerous clinics and health centers. The public healthcare system is free for all citizens, while private healthcare is available for those who can afford it. The quality of care is generally good, with many doctors and nurses having received training abroad. Additionally, the city has a number of pharmacies and laboratories that provide access to medications and diagnostic tests," explained one retiree living in Cali.

"Expats in Cali often join clubs and activities such as salsa dancing, language exchange groups, and outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, such as expat groups, language exchange groups, and hobby groups. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending local meetups, such as coffee meetups, book clubs, and movie nights," explained a retiree in Cali.

"Cali is an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its lively nightlife to its stunning natural scenery. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many parks, museums, and cultural events, as well as its excellent restaurants and cafes. The city also offers a variety of housing options, from modern apartments to traditional colonial homes. With its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, Cali is an ideal place for expats and digital nomads to live and work," said a retiree who moved to Cali, Colombia.

"Before retiring in Cali, expats should research the cost of living in the city to ensure they can afford to live comfortably. They should also familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs to ensure they can integrate into the community. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Cali to ensure they have access to quality medical care. Finally, expats should consider the safety of the city and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety," said a person in Cali.

"Cali is home to a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city boasts a number of parks, including the Parque de los Fundadores, which features a lake, a botanical garden, and a variety of sports fields. The Parque de la Cañaveralejo is another popular park, with a lake, a playground, and a variety of walking trails. For those looking for a more active experience, the city also has a number of sports facilities, including the Estadio Olímpico Pascual Guerrero, which is home to the Cali F.C. soccer team. The city also has a number of swimming pools, including the Piscina Olímpica, which is a large Olympic-sized pool. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the city also has a number of spas and wellness centers, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars," said one retiree in living in Cali, Colombia.

"Cali is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. There are several large supermarkets, such as Exito, Carulla, and Jumbo, which offer a wide variety of products. Additionally, there are many smaller, local stores that offer fresh produce, meats, and other items. For those looking for more specialized items, there are also several specialty stores, such as La Tienda de los Artesanos, which specializes in artisanal products. For those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, there are also several malls, such as Centro Comercial Unicentro, which offer a variety of stores and restaurants," explained one retiree living in Cali.