5 Reasons an American Woman Fell in Love With Colombia and Decided to Stay

American citizen Sam Simpson fell in love with Colombia and decided to make it her permanent home, three years after moving there. Her journey began when she visited the country with her husband Nick for their honeymoon in 2017, and she was immediately captivated by the Colombian people's warmth and kindness. During their first trip, a stranger helped carry their shopping bags, an act that demonstrated the inviting nature of Medellin.

Sam's transition to life in Colombia was not without challenges. Moving abroad meant leaving behind her family in the United States, and she initially missed them. However, she discovered that Colombians place a strong emphasis on family, making her feel more integrated into the culture over time. Eventually, Sam described herself as an "adopted Colombian."

Among the many traditions Sam embraced, Dia de las Velitas, a December celebration where people light candles and lanterns, became her favorite. The nationwide participation in this tradition made her feel a sense of unity and connection to Colombia.

Colombia's geographical diversity fascinated Sam, from the Caribbean beaches and mountains to the plains, the Amazon, and the Pacific coast. She appreciated the country's natural beauty and the opportunity to explore various landscapes without the heavy presence of mass tourism. Sam and Nick purchased a home in Medellin in 2022 and launched a bagel business, bringing a piece of their New York background to Colombia.

Sam's advice for foreigners considering Colombia is to learn Spanish, build connections, and invest heavily in their first six months. Despite challenges such as rising prices and bureaucracy, her love for Colombia has only intensified. Her family has also embraced the country, with her parents buying a place in Colombia and her mother-in-law visiting regularly. In Sam's eyes, Colombia has become her home, and she cannot imagine being anywhere else.