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After spending a full year living in Mérida, Mexico, I never expected to find myself saying this:
For me, Cali, Colombia won.
Now before my Mérida friends come after me 
, let me say this first: I truly enjoyed my time in Mérida. It felt safe, organized, and easy to navigate. The food was wonderful, healthcare was affordable, and the expat community was strong.
But after arriving in Cali, something shifted.
As a woman over 70 living abroad solo, I’ve learned that choosing a city is about much more than cost. It’s about how a place feels, how easily you can build a life there, and whether it supports the lifestyle you actually want.
For me, Cali offered several advantages:
- A lower overall cost of living in many categories
- Cooler weather and greener surroundings
- A more walkable lifestyle in the neighborhoods I prefer
- Access to affordable healthcare and dental care
- A feeling of energy, culture, and everyday life that surprised me
Was everything perfect? Absolutely not. Every country comes with trade-offs. Visa paperwork, language differences, and learning a new system are all part of the experience.
But after comparing the real costs, daily lifestyle, and quality of life, Cali simply felt like a better fit for this season of my life.
If you are considering retirement abroad, especially after 50 or 60, I encourage you to compare more than just rent prices. Think about healthcare, transportation, weather, walkability, community, and peace of mind.
Watch my full video below where I break down the real cost of living in Cali vs Mérida and explain exactly why Cali won me over.
