Question 1

Are the professionals and businesses in Craig’s Business List℠ the most affordable option?

Accepted Answer

No, our objective is to provide you with access to reputable and high-quality professionals and businesses in Colombia who charge fair prices, rather than simply offering the most economical option for a specific product or service.

Question 2

Do the professionals in Craig’s Business List℠ speak English?

Accepted Answer

We prioritize professionals fluent in English whenever possible. While not everyone in the directory speaks English fluently, each listing provides information about the English proficiency level of the professional or contact on file. Additionally, profiles will indicate whether the business or professional employs English-speaking staff.

Question 3

Is Craig’s Business List℠ for me?

Accepted Answer

If you need trustworthy and quality professionals or businesses in Colombia, then Craig’s Business List℠ is for you!You might be interested in our directory if: You already reside in ColombiaYou are preparing to relocate to Colombia in the near futureYou are planning to visit Colombia for services such as medical tourismTo review the coverage of this directory, please click here.

Question 4

Can I trust the professionals and businesses in Craig's Business List℠?

Accepted Answer

We thoroughly vet and verify all the professionals and businesses listed in this directory. However, they retain complete discretion and authority over their individual business operations and services. To help ensure quality, you can read reviews of the professionals and businesses in our directory or leave one yourself. In addition, if you experience any issues, please contact us via email at admin@mylatinescape.com. Any listings that fail to uphold our standards will be promptly removed.

Question 5

Does this service renew automatically?

Accepted Answer

No, we do NOT believe in automatic renewals.

Question 6

Why are you selling Craig’s Business List℠ using a subscription model?

Accepted Answer

We personally aren’t fans of subscription models. However, we chose this sales model because it allows us to continuously update, expand, and improve our directory.

Question 7

What happens if Craig’s Business List℠ is not released by its December 15th, 2027 deadline?

Accepted Answer

We will notify you as soon as possible if our directory is delayed. You will be given the option to request a full refund if its publication is postponed for over 40 days after its December 15th, 2027 scheduled release date.For complete terms & conditions, please click here.

Question 8

Can I share Craig’s Business List℠?

Accepted Answer

You may use our directory to find professionals and businesses for yourself and your immediate family. However, please be aware that compiling this list took a considerable amount of time, effort, and financial resources. It was meticulously curated to safeguard you from unscrupulous individuals and businesses that frequently exploit immigrants. Therefore, we kindly request that you use this directory fairly and honestly. Sharing it with others—such as friends, acquaintances, or for commercial or AI training purposes— is both unfair and strictly prohibited by our terms and conditions! For complete terms and conditions, please click here.

Question 9

What regions of Colombia will Craigs Business List℠ cover?

Accepted Answer

As of December 15th, 2026, our directory will feature professionals and businesses in the capital cities of Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Manizales, Pereira, Armenia, Cali, Popayán, and Pasto. Subsequently, our directory will expand to include professionals and businesses in the capital cities of Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá, starting June 1st, 2027.To review the coverage of this directory, please click here.

Question 10

What should I do if I have difficulties with one of the professionals or businesses in Craig’s Business List℠?

Accepted Answer

If you experience any issues with the professionals and businesses in our directory, please contact us via email at admin@mylatinescape.com.We require that the professionals and businesses in our directory meet certain standards. We will promptly remove any listings for the following reasons:Non-delivery of the agreed-upon service or product.Providing services or products that do not meet an acceptable standard of quality.Charging prices or fees that exceed the prevailing market rates for the service or product.Neglecting to uphold proper customer service and professional standards.Furthermore, in cases involving suspected fraud, criminal breach of contract, misconduct, or any other possible illegal activities, we may report the matter to the local prosecutor’s office.

Question 11

What should I do if I am overcharged by a professional or business in Craig’s Business List℠?

Accepted Answer

If you believe that an individual or business listed in our directory has charged you significantly more than the prevailing market rates, please contact us via email at admin@mylatinescape.com.

Question 12

What is the difference between Expat Chat℠ and other Facebook and Whatsapp groups for expats in Colombia?

Accepted Answer

Our Expat Chat℠ is specifically designed to assist newly arrived expats in Colombia. While other expat chat groups can be a valuable resource, they often cater to long-established expat communities. Some members in these communities will  make irrelevant, off-topic, and even offensive posts. Additionally, members in larger groups may dismiss genuine questions and make demeaning, egocentric comments. To address these issues, our chat groups are limited to 50 members and are closely monitored to ensure that all members contribute helpful and respectful comments.

Question 13

What can I use Expat Chat℠ for?

Accepted Answer

Expat Chat℠ is a community-focused group chat, designed specifically for new expats in Colombia. It provides a supportive space to ask questions and discover reliable local information, as well as receive prompt assistance with minor day-to-day challenges. Beyond real-time community assistance, members gain access to shared regional insights, cultural tips, and advice to help smooth their relocation journey.

Question 14

Is Expat Chat℠ for me?

Accepted Answer

If you are a new expat in Colombia, then Expat Chat℠ is for you!

Question 15

Does this service renew automatically?

Accepted Answer

No, we do NOT believe in automatic renewals.

Question 16

What regions of Colombia does Expat Chat℠ cover?

Accepted Answer

Expat Chat℠ primarily covers the capital cities of Santa Marta, Barranquilla, Manizales, Pereira, Armenia, Cali, Popayán, and Pasto, along with their surrounding areas.  To a lesser extent we also offer assistance through this service to the cities of Cartagena, Medellinín, and Bogotá.To review the coverage of this service, please click here.

Question 17

Tell me more about your Colombian Relocation Tours℠.

Accepted Answer

Our Colombian Relocation Tours℠ are designed to give a comprehensive view of life in Colombia for prospective expats. These tours combine tourism and cultural immersion with practical orientation focusing on the following topics:HousingCost of livingPrices of everyday itemsSafetyImmigrationSocial dynamics

Question 18

What is the difference between a group tour and a private tour?

Accepted Answer

Group tours and private tours offer similar experiences and itineraries, but with a few key differences. Group tours are one day longer and accommodate a maximum of 15 participants. Private tours are one day shorter and are limited to a maximum of 5 participants.

Question 19

What is included in your Colombian Relocation Tours℠?

Accepted Answer

Our Colombian Relocation Tours℠ are all-inclusive covering meals, transportation, and a bilingual guide during the tour.Please click here for full details.

Question 20

How do I cancel a scheduled tour?

Accepted Answer

To cancel your tour, please send an email to admin@mylatinescape.com with "Tour Cancellation" in the subject line as soon as possible.For complete details about cancellations, please click here.

Question 21

What if I need to reschedule a tour?

Accepted Answer

To reschedule your tour, please send an email to admin@mylatinescape.com with "Reschedule My Tour" in the subject line as soon as possible.For complete details about reschedulings, please click here.

Question 22

Will I receive a refund if I cancel a tour?

Accepted Answer

A refund for a Relcoation Tour is determined by the date the cancellation is received relative to the tour’s start date.90 days or more before the tour start date: A full refund is issued, minus processing and bank fees, or a credit can be issued. 89 - 31 days before the start date: A refund is issued, minus 10% of the tour cost, as well as processing and bank fees, or a credit can be issued. 30 - 15 days: A credit is issued for a future tour. Refunds are NOT available for cancellations made within this period. 14 days or less: A credit is issued, minus 5% of the original total tour cost, for a future tour. Refunds are NOT available for cancellations made within this period. 
   For complete details about cancellations and refunds, please click here.

Question 23

Should I buy travel insurance before taking a Colombian Relocation Tour℠?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend purchasing international travel insurance before visiting Colombia.

Question 24

Are your Colombian Relocation Tours℠ accessible for individuals with mobility limitations?

Accepted Answer

Our group tours require all participants to be able to walk unassisted. However, if you require accommodations, please contact us about arranging a private tour.Please click here for full details.

Question 25

What do I do if my flight is missed, canceled or delayed?

Accepted Answer

If you have issues with your flight, please contact us immediately via phone or Whatsapp (+57 315-581-4491) and we will try to accommodate you as best as possible.

Question 26

How long do I have to schedule my first consulting meeting?

Accepted Answer

You have a 10-day window to schedule your initial consulting meeting. If a meeting is not scheduled within this period, and we receive no subsequent communication, we will process a reimbursement, minus processing fees.

Question 27

What if I am not able to attend or need to cancel a consulting meeting?

Accepted Answer

You may cancel up to three (3) appointments with less than 24 hours' notice. After exceeding this limit, one hour of consulting time per canceled meeting will be debited from your remaining balance.

Question 28

Tell me more about your consulting packages.

Accepted Answer

Our Relocting to Colombia Consulting Packages℠ are designed to provide a comprehensive solution to help you move to Colombia with ease. They are structured around four distinct stages, ideally starting before you arrive in Colombia:Stage 1: Determining SuitabilityThe initial stage is dedicated to establishing a realistic plan and timeline for relocating to Colombia. We also conduct a preliminary assessment to identify any potential issues—such as personal preferences, limited income, health conditions, prior criminal history, or relevant personality factors—that could potentially complicate or prevent relocating to Colombia.Stage 2: The Visa Application ProcessThe second stage starts with a consulting meeting to find a visa that aligns with a client's specific requirements and objectives. Subsequently, we provide comprehensive guidance through the visa application process, which is often confusing for first-time applicants. It is highly recommended that this process be finalized prior to relocating to Colombia, as it is time-consuming and necessitates various official documents from the client's home country.Stage 3: Pre-Relocation PreparationThe third stage deals with the logistical elements of moving to Colombia in order to ensure long-term success. While this phase encompasses obvious tasks such as packing and securing short-term accommodations, our focus also extends to other critical details that are frequently overlooked. These include establishing a detailed relocation budget, setting up a reliable mail forwarding service, developing emergency contingency plans, etc.Stage 4: Post-Relocation SupportThe final stage ideally begins upon arrival in Colombia. We provide airport pick-up and transportation to temporary lodging. This is followed by a trip to the grocery store to buy essential supplies for the initial week in the country. The remaining consulting time is then used to provide assistance with crucial life necessities, such as enrolling in healthcare, establishing a bank account, and setting up a mobile phone plan, etc.

Question 29

What does your Good-Fit Guarantee cover?

Accepted Answer

Our Good-Fit Guarantee covers both the Full and Standard Relocating to Colombia Packages℠. This guarantee provides a partial refund if a client determines that Colombia is not suitable for them.The following refunds are available under the Good-Fit Guarantee:Clients are eligible for a full refund, less $599.00 USD
- During stage 1 (one) of the consulting process
- Up to a maximum of 5 (five) hours of consulting time
- During the first 30 days of the consulting process
Clients are eligible for a full refund, less $999.00 USD
- During stage 2 (two) of the consulting process
- Up to a maximum of 10 (ten) hours of consulting time
- During the first 60 days of the consulting process
Clients are eligible for a full refund, less $1,499.00 USD
- During stage 3 (three) of the consulting process
- Up to a maximum of 15 (fifteen) hours of consulting time
- During the first 90 days of the consulting processNOTE: Clients are NOT eligible for a refund under the following conditions:
        - During stage 4 (four) of the consulting process
        - Over 15 hours of consulting timeTerms and conditions apply, please click here for details.

Question 30

What if I am not able to complete the consulting process within the 5-month timeframe?

Accepted Answer

Our goal is to help you successfully relocate to Colombia. Exceptions to this rule are considered on a case-to-case basis.

Question 31

What if I want to relocate to a location outside of your coverage areas?

Accepted Answer

We can often make accommodations if you wish to move to a town or area slightly outside our standard coverage areas, provided it is easy to access and safe. However, an additional fee will often be assessed to cover extra travel costs.NOTE:Our on-site consulting and consulting packages are limited to the cities and their surrounding areas within a 1.5-hour average commute time.Standard Coverage Areas: Santa MartaBarranquilla ManizalesPereiraArmeniaCaliPopayánPastoFor complete coverage details, please click here.

Question 32

Do your Relocating to Colombia Consulting Packages℠ cover purchasing property?

Accepted Answer

No, our Relocating to Colombia Consulting Packages℠ only assist clients in finding and renting residential property.

Question 33

What happens if I am denied a visa

Accepted Answer

It is rare for United States and Canadian citizens to be denied a Colombian visa, provided all visa requirements are met and all necessary documentation is submitted correctly. Nevertheless, the final decision on all Colombian visa applications rests solely with the Colombian consulate official. In the event of a visa denial, you may be eligible for a partial refund under our Good-Fit Guarantee.

Question 34

What if I need more consulting hours to help me move to Colombia?

Accepted Answer

The standard hours provided in each Relocating to Colombia Consulting Package℠ are usually sufficient for the majority of our clients. Should you require more time than initially allotted, additional hours are available for purchase at a special discounted rate.

Question 35

Do your consulting packages offer help finding housing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all of our Relocating to Colombia Consulting Packages℠ provide assistance finding and renting a residential property unit. However, our consulting packages do not provide assistance purchasing property nor renting commercial property.

Question 36

What can make it difficult or impossible for me to move to Colombia?

Accepted Answer

We consistently find that the following factors make it challenging or even impossible to relocate to Colombia:Certain health conditionsLimited incomeCriminal historyCertain personality traits

Question 37

What if I don’t agree with the terms and conditions or the legal agreement(s)?

Accepted Answer

If the legal agreement(s) have not yet been signed, please contact us to request a reimbursement, and a refund will be processed within a maximum of 15 business days, minus processing fees.

Question 38

Do I need a visa to live in Colombia?

Accepted Answer

No, you can stay in Colombia for up to 180 days annually. However, you will need a visa if you plan to stay in Colombia long-term or engage in activities other than tourism.

Question 39

What can make it difficult or impossible for me to move to Colombia?

Accepted Answer

We consistently find that the following factors make it challenging or even impossible to relocate to Colombia:Certain health conditionsLimited incomeCriminal historyCertain personality traits

Question 40

Is Colombia safe?

Accepted Answer

Colombia once had a reputation for kidnappings, but these incidents have significantly declined since 2001 (1).  Expatriates now face a higher risk of harm or death from crimes such as robbery or traffic-related incidents. It is important to know that there has been a concerning increase in robberies involving substances such as scopolamine, commonly known as "devil's breath," which is used to drug and incapacitate unsuspecting victims (2). To learn more about these topics, we recommend reading the first two articles listed below under the section titled "Sources and Further Reading". Additionally, we strongly advise checking the official website of the United States’ State Department, which you can also find under "Sources and Further Reading," for any travel advisories or warnings.

Question 41

Can I drink the tap water?

Accepted Answer

In some upscale neighborhoods of cities such as Cali and Pereira, tap water is safe to drink. However, we generally recommend using a water filter and purchasing bottled water.

Question 42

Will I need to buy a vehicle in Colombia?

Accepted Answer

Unlike in Canada and the United States, you don’t necessarily need a vehicle to live in Colombia. We’ve found that some of our clients never buy one, while others do so because it better suits their lifestyle.

Question 43

Tell me more about healthcare in Colombia.

Accepted Answer

Colombia boasts some of the best medical facilities and professionals in Latin America and the Caribbean. However, its healthcare system can be unnecessarily bureaucratic and slow, often infuriating many expats. Despite these challenges, a 2021 study by the World Health Organization ranked Colombia's healthcare system above that of the United States (4).

Question 44

Am I at risk of contracting a mosquito-borne illness?

Accepted Answer

There have been reported cases of mosquito-borne illnesses, including yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya, and zika, in many parts of the country. The risk of these diseases varies by region and is most prevalent in warm, humid, and coastal areas. Effective vaccines are available for both yellow fever and dengue, along with prevention methods that can significantly reduce your chances of contracting these diseases. We strongly recommend consulting your healthcare provider to learn more about vacations and other preventive measures before traveling.

Question 45

Can I live on minimum wage or Social Security in Colombia?

Accepted Answer

In many regions of Colombia, an average monthly income of $1,500 is enough to live comfortably. However, the devaluation of the U.S. dollar is causing some expats to tighten their budgets. Additionally, many people need a higher income to maintain their lifestyle. Finally, remember that relocating and settling in Colombia will incur costs beyond regular monthly expenses.

Question 46

Is police corruption a problem in Colombia?

Accepted Answer

Colombia faces challenges with police corruption; however, law-abiding Canadian and American expats typically do not encounter issues with the Colombian police or other authorities. It is important to follow the law and have all your necessary paperwork. Most Colombian authorities tend to be understanding toward expats who may inadvertently violate minor rules or regulations.

Question 47

Do I need to open a bank account in Colombia?

Accepted Answer

No, you don’t need to open a bank account in Colombia. You can use your credit or debit card and other services to pay for various goods and services and withdraw cash from ATMs. However, many expats open bank accounts the convenience and better exchange rates. If you plan to rely on your debit or credit card, we suggest finding a company that doesn’t charge international transaction fees.

Question 48

Can I enroll in Colombia's national health system?

Accepted Answer

Once you have been approved for a Colombian visa and received your national identification card, known as a cédula, you are eligible to enroll in the national health system. However, some unscrupulous services will sign you up without meeting this criterion, which is against the law and could result in you being fined by the Colombian immigration.

Question 49

What is the best visa for retirees?

Accepted Answer

A retirement visa is usually the fastest and easiest visa to obtain for most foreign retirees. However, if you want to start a business or enter and exit the country frequently, you may want to consider another type of visa.

Question 50

Should I learn Spanish?

Accepted Answer

Learning Spanish is highly recommended, but many expats live in Colombia without mastering the language. We suggest studying or hiring a tutor to familiarize yourself with the basics before arrival and using translation apps to bridge the gaps in your knowledge as you learn.

Question 51

What common issues do expats face in Colombia?

Accepted Answer

Expats often encounter price gouging when they first arrive in a new country. However, this issue usually diminishes as they become more adept at bargaining and familiar with the costs of goods and services. Initially, we recommend avoiding informal markets that don’t have standard prices. In the medium term, expats may struggle with practical tasks such as budgeting, securing long-term housing, and finding reliable professionals and service providers. Ultimately, the biggest challenges for expats are finding a new social group and adapting to Colombia's complex bureaucratic systems and cultural nuances.

Question 52

Why should I move to Colombia instead of Costa Rica, Peru, Mexico, Ecuador, Panama, or other Latin American countries?

Accepted Answer

Colombia has one of the lowest living costs in Latin America (5), and most expats find that it offers the best mix of destinations, proximity, healthcare, accessibility, security, physical infrastructure, and housing options for their lifestyles and needs.

Question 53

Why do you say, "Living in Colombia Like a Millionaire!℠"?

Accepted Answer

"Living in Colombia Like a Millionaire" means that a person can enjoy a middle-class lifestyle in Colombia for a fraction of the cost compared to the United States and Canada. Currently, a retiree in the United States needs approximately $1.8 million USD in a 401(k) to maintain a middle-class lifestyle (6). Additionally, many parts of the United States require a net yearly income of over $100,000 USD to be considered middle class (7).

Question 54

What parts of Colombia do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We offer nationwide off-site consulting services on various topics, such as retirement visas, healthcare services, housing, and more. However, our on-site consulting and consulting packages are limited to the cities and their surrounding areas within our standard coverage areas, as outlined below.Requests for consulting services outside our standard coverage zones are considered on a case-by-case basis. We can often accommodate these requests provided easy accessibility and safety, though an additional fee will be assessed to cover additional travel costs.NOTE:Standard Coverage Areas: Santa MartaBarranquilla ManizalesPereiraArmeniaCaliPopayánPasto

Colombia 101

Colombia for Expats 101℠

Moving to Colombia 101℠

Blog Coming Soon...

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the professionals and businesses in Craig’s Business List℠ the most affordable option?

Do the professionals in Craig’s Business List℠ speak English?

Is Craig’s Business List℠ for me?

Can I trust the professionals and businesses in Craig's Business List℠?

Does this service renew automatically?

Why are you selling Craig’s Business List℠ using a subscription model?

What happens if Craig’s Business List℠ is not released by its December 15th, 2027 deadline?

Can I share Craig’s Business List℠?

What regions of Colombia will Craigs Business List℠ cover?

What should I do if I have difficulties with one of the professionals or businesses in Craig’s Business List℠?

What should I do if I am overcharged by a professional or business in Craig’s Business List℠?

What is the difference between Expat Chat℠ and other Facebook and Whatsapp groups for expats in Colombia?

What can I use Expat Chat℠ for?

Is Expat Chat℠ for me?

Does this service renew automatically?

What regions of Colombia does Expat Chat℠ cover?

Tell me more about your Colombian Relocation Tours℠.

What is the difference between a group tour and a private tour?

What is included in your Colombian Relocation Tours℠?

How do I cancel a scheduled tour?

What if I need to reschedule a tour?

Will I receive a refund if I cancel a tour?

Should I buy travel insurance before taking a Colombian Relocation Tour℠?

Are your Colombian Relocation Tours℠ accessible for individuals with mobility limitations?

What do I do if my flight is missed, canceled or delayed?

How long do I have to schedule my first consulting meeting?

What if I am not able to attend or need to cancel a consulting meeting?

Tell me more about your consulting packages.

What does your Good-Fit Guarantee cover?

What if I am not able to complete the consulting process within the 5-month timeframe?

What if I want to relocate to a location outside of your coverage areas?

Do your Relocating to Colombia Consulting Packages℠ cover purchasing property?

What happens if I am denied a visa

What if I need more consulting hours to help me move to Colombia?

Do your consulting packages offer help finding housing?

What can make it difficult or impossible for me to move to Colombia?

What if I don’t agree with the terms and conditions or the legal agreement(s)?

Do I need a visa to live in Colombia?

What can make it difficult or impossible for me to move to Colombia?

Is Colombia safe?

Can I drink the tap water?

Will I need to buy a vehicle in Colombia?

Tell me more about healthcare in Colombia.

Am I at risk of contracting a mosquito-borne illness?

Can I live on minimum wage or Social Security in Colombia?

Is police corruption a problem in Colombia?

Do I need to open a bank account in Colombia?

Can I enroll in Colombia's national health system?

What is the best visa for retirees?

Should I learn Spanish?

What common issues do expats face in Colombia?

Why should I move to Colombia instead of Costa Rica, Peru, Mexico, Ecuador, Panama, or other Latin American countries?

Why do you say, "Living in Colombia Like a Millionaire!℠"?

What parts of Colombia do you cover?

Sources and Further Reading:

Magdalena

Caldas

Risaralda

Quindío

Valle del Cauca

Cauca

Nariño

Magdalena

Caldas

Risaralda

Quindío

Valle del Cauca

Cauca

Nariño

Coverage