Post: #1

Hey compadres,

I'm 36, Italian, been living in the USA for 17 years. I am a writer for movies. I speak four languages fluently.

I've lived in NY, LA, Boston. I've seen more of this big ol' country than most Murikans.

And now... I am getting a bit burned out. May have to do with the political climate, or my age, or the fact that I have lived here such a long time. But I am basically seriously thinking of doing a 180 and moving to Latin America. I speak Spanish, I have friends down there, and two of my most incredible trips were to Colombia (spent 2 months there) and Mexico City.

So... am I naive for thinking that I will live a much better life in, say, Bogota, Mexico City or B.A. as opposed to slaving away in the North for another decade or more?

I consider myself Latin in a way- Italians are way closer in temperament and culture to Latin Americans than they are to their counterparts in the North. I wouldn't completely cut ties with the North. But I just feel like it would bring a much-needed jolt of excitement.

I could keep writing projects from down south (which would pay in USD) and soon I could even afford to buy a place.

Am I crazy for seriously considering this? And... which of the three cities I mentioned (Bogota, Mexico City, B.A.) seems like the most sensible choice?

There are loads of other cities and countries- I heard Chile and Peru are stunning- but that truly would feel like a fresh slate. At least I have friends in the other three places so I wouldn't be completely lost.

Thoughts?

Post: #2

What's the downside of trying it? If you don't like it, just move back.

Post: #3

I did the exact same thing you were planning to do, except I chose SEA.

I pulled the plug back in 2016, when I was also 36.

And I can tell you right now that I have no regrets. 100%. Actually, there is one - for not doing it even sooner.

Is this crazy? Perhaps. Maybe I’m crazy, too. But if in the end you are happy, that’s all that matters.

Post: #4

No, you're not crazy. Sounds like a great plan! Just make sure your finances are in order first.

I'd recommend scouring the threads on Latin America as there is plenty of info already on all the cities and countries you may want to visit.

Post: #5

Man, If I were to compare bogota to CDMX, Bogota might have not that much offer in terms of cultural events or music scene, well, even night life since CDMX is fucking huge, But to be honest I think bogota would be a lot better for what you're planning. CDMX sounds way too big and dangerous for a nice lifestyle. Why don't you try a small city in Colombia? Bucaramanga, The coffee-axis cities or even Medellin if you don't find it washed out. Remember Colombia is cheaper than Peru, Argentina and Mexico. With $1000 you live a high end life. Well that depends what's high-end for you my friend. Cheers!

Post: #6

I don't really understand what you are asking here. You have a location independent job, speak the language and have local friends. Where is the risk and what advice do you hope to get?

Just move there and if it doesn't work out move back.

Post: #7

Do it and then tell us.

I have still no idea what exactly do you plan to invest your time in LatAm (besides your career as a writer). So, if it's worth or not depends of that.

Post: #8

If it was me, I'd bounce around to different places. I get get stir crazy if I stay in a particular place for too long. Spend a months here, a few there and you'll find yourself returning to the ones you truly enjoy.

Post: #9

(07-18-2018 08:43 PM)Harryhonolulu Wrote:  Am I crazy for seriously considering this? And... which of the three cities I mentioned (Bogota, Mexico City, B.A.) seems like the most sensible choice?

There are loads of other cities and countries- I heard Chile and Peru are stunning- but that truly would feel like a fresh slate. At least I have friends in the other three places so I wouldn't be completely lost.

Bogota is like NYC but a ton cheaper. It's also very gray and rainy but you won't be hurting for dates. There's over 4 million women, many younger. That would be my choice, definitely. Close, affordable, beautiful women.

Buenos Aires... meh. For living, never - that country is too unpredictable. It's great for visiting though.

I was in Chile last year for a month. It's the most like the U.S. Santiago is really comfortable and modern. However, the people are more reserved. It's called the England of South America for a reason.

Instead of chucking it all away at once, choose a city, commit to a three-month stay, and see how well you get on.

Post: #10

I was in Colombia in May - have you considered Medellin rather than Bogota? Medellin felt warm and welcoming. Bogota felt cold and stressful.

For the people in this thread that have moved (or in the case of OP, planning to move) - what are you doing for income????

I very badly want to move to Medellin. But to leave my stable job I'd need to figure something out...