Building a Community as a Long-Term Traveler in Colombia: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey there, wanderers! If you’re thinking about making Colombia your home away from home, you’re in for a life-changing experience. Colombia is not just a stunning country filled with vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes; it’s also a fantastic place to forge connections and build a community. Whether you’re planning a few months or a couple of years, creating a support network is essential for making the most of your adventure. Let’s dive into some tips and tricks on how to build a community as a long-term traveler in Colombia!

Why Build a Community?

As Black travelers, forming connections in a new country can help you feel grounded and supported. Building a community allows you to:

• Share experiences and stories.
• Find like-minded individuals who resonate with your journey.
• Gain insights into local culture and customs.
• Enjoy companionship and make lasting friendships.

1. Embrace Local Culture

Dive into Colombian Life: Understanding and appreciating the local culture is the first step in building relationships. Attend cultural events, festivals, and workshops. Immerse yourself in the Afro-Colombian heritage through music, dance, and culinary experiences.

• Tip: Check out local cultural calendars and community boards for events like the Festival de Música del Pacífico in Cali or the Carnaval de Barranquilla.

2. Join Expat Communities

Connect with Fellow Travelers: There are vibrant expat communities across Colombia, especially in major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Look for groups on social media platforms like Facebook or Meetup.

• Online Groups to Join:
  • Black Travelers in Colombia: This group is a fantastic resource for connecting with fellow Black travelers and sharing experiences.
  • Medellín Expat Meetup: A platform to meet expats, participate in social events, and find useful information.

Tip: Attend local meetups to network and find friends who share similar interests or experiences.

3. Engage in Volunteer Work

Make a Difference: Volunteering is an excellent way to meet locals and fellow travelers while giving back to the community. Look for opportunities in areas that align with your passions, such as education, environmental conservation, or cultural preservation.

• Where to Volunteer:
  • Fundación Mi Sangre: Focused on empowering children and youth through art and culture in Bogotá.
  • Cine Sin Fronteras: A project aimed at fostering creativity and storytelling among marginalized communities.

Tip: Not only will you gain a deeper understanding of Colombian culture, but you’ll also create bonds with people who share your values.

4. Take Classes and Workshops

Learn Something New: Sign up for classes that interest you—be it cooking, dance, or language. Learning alongside others can spark connections and friendships.

• Popular Classes:
  • Salsa Dancing: Join a salsa class in Cali, the salsa capital of the world, where you’ll not only learn the moves but also meet fellow dance enthusiasts.
  • Cooking Classes: Take a cooking workshop to learn about Colombian cuisine, and enjoy a meal with your new classmates!

Tip: Try platforms like Airbnb Experiences or local community centers for unique classes and workshops.

5. Explore Neighborhoods

Find Your Vibe: Spend time in different neighborhoods to discover where you feel most at home. Places like Getsemaní in Cartagena or El Poblado in Medellín are known for their welcoming communities.

• Community Hangouts:
  • Cafés and Restaurants: Frequent local cafés and eateries to strike up conversations with staff and patrons. Places like Café San Alberto in Quindío are great for coffee lovers.
  • Parks and Public Spaces: Visit parks for community events, outdoor yoga, or simply to relax and meet locals.

6. Attend Cultural Festivals and Events

Celebrate Together: Colombia is rich in cultural festivals, many of which celebrate its Afro-Colombian heritage. Attend these events to learn, celebrate, and meet new people.

• Must-Visit Festivals:
  • Festival de la Leyenda Vallenata: A celebration of Vallenato music in Valledupar.
  • Festival de San Pacho: Celebrating the cultural heritage of the Chocó region, showcasing music, dance, and traditions.

Tip: Get involved as a volunteer or participant to connect with the community on a deeper level.

7. Utilize Social Media and Apps

Stay Connected: Use social media platforms and apps to stay in touch with your community and discover events or gatherings.

• Apps to Consider:
  • Meetup: Great for finding local events based on your interests.
  • Couchsurfing: Not just for finding places to stay, but also for connecting with locals and attending community events.

Tip: Be proactive! Post about your interests and invite others to join you for activities or outings.

8. Be Open and Approachable

Make the First Move: Sometimes, all it takes is a friendly smile or a simple hello to start a conversation. Share your story and listen to others; you never know what connections might form.

• Practice: Try chatting with baristas, shop owners, or fellow travelers. Being genuine and approachable will draw others in.

Final Thoughts

Building a community while traveling in Colombia is not just about finding friends; it’s about creating a sense of belonging in a foreign land. By immersing yourself in local culture, volunteering, joining expat groups, and embracing new experiences, you’ll weave yourself into the vibrant tapestry of Colombian life.

So, get ready to explore, connect, and thrive in Colombia! Your journey is not just about the places you’ll see but also the incredible people you’ll meet along the way. Safe travels, my friends! 🌍✈️🤝✨