Why I Chose Colombia, Instead of Merida!
When I left the United States at 71, I wasn’t looking for a vacation. I was looking for a life that felt peaceful, affordable, and full of possibility. Like many women over 60, I wanted to stretch my retirement dollars without giving up the simple pleasures that make life enjoyable.
First Mexico, Then Colombia
Before choosing Colombia, I lived in Mexico, visited Costa Rica, spent time in Peru, and explored other destinations throughout Latin America. Every country had something to offer, but Colombia surprised me in ways I never expected.
The first thing I noticed was how alive the cities felt. I enjoy walking, stopping for coffee, browsing neighborhood markets, and sitting in beautiful parks. Cities like Cali offered exactly that. I didn’t need a car, and everyday errands became part of the adventure instead of a chore.
The cost of living also made a difference. Fresh produce, flowers, restaurants, transportation, and healthcare often cost far less than I was paying in the United States. Living on Social Security suddenly felt much more realistic.
Of course, moving abroad isn’t perfect. I’ve dealt with visa paperwork, language barriers, medical appointments, and more than a few unexpected surprises. Those experiences reminded me that every country has challenges. The goal isn’t to find a perfect place—it’s to find the place whose advantages matter most to you.
For me, Colombia offered a lifestyle that felt active, welcoming, and financially sustainable. I found beautiful neighborhoods, friendly people, excellent healthcare options, and the freedom to design my days instead of rushing through them.
Will Colombia be my forever home?
I’m still discovering that answer. But choosing Colombia gave me something I hadn’t felt in years: the confidence that life after retirement can still be filled with new beginnings.
Sometimes the biggest adventure isn’t moving abroad.
It’s believing you’re still capable of starting over.
THINKING ABOUR MOVING ABROAD
Coffee Break with Jackie
About the Author
Jackie Robinson is a retired professional and the founder of Living Life Abroad, a platform dedicated to helping women over 60 and retirees navigate international living with confidence. Having personally experienced the challenges of healthcare abroad, residency applications, cultural adjustments, and solo travel, she understands the practical realities of life overseas.
Through daily hands-on use of artificial intelligence tools, Jackie developed a clear system for using AI as a personal assistant — not a complicated tech platform. AI Made Easy was created from real-world application, not theory, to help retirees simplify decisions, reduce stress, and stay informed while living abroad.