As a Colombian is so refreshing to hear a guy like Elliot speak when we are used to all of these “pookie ray ray” type tourist, he has the right mindset, Colombia is not some type of lawless third world country, be a good tourist and you’ll have a wonderful time
What a lovely man Elliot is! His intelligence, integrity and deep gratitude for all that is good in his life are qualities that many people this day in age don't embody. Thanks for a great interview, Joel. This gave me a big smile today! 💖🙏💖
Elliot hit the nail on the head!! I and my brother, moved from the United States from two different states to come here and live in Medellin, Colombia. We’ve only been here a few months and everything that Elliot said is true. He explained it so well- there is a peacefulness(in spite of the crazy traffic at times) and a slower pace of life. The family unit is very strong. People gather in each neighborhood at a local store or outdoor café and talk about the day’s or the week’s events or the upcoming game. Old couples still hold hands when they walk and I don’t even see that in the US anymore. Public displays of affection are common and very endearing. Younger women are not afraid to go out with older men and most of them are genuine. Elliot said do not meet girls on dating sites and he is correct! Look for genuine women in their workplace, or in the gym, or in the University or in the mall. The mall and gym are often highly populated with the most beautiful girls and women.💃🏽Even older women take such good care of themselves that they remain absolutely stunning in many cases. And I have never been to a place where the sheer number of women are so beautiful. 😵💫 They walk a lot and take care of themselves, and they like to look good.😳😀 Medellin itself is a gorgeous city, built in a valley surrounded by mountains and also built within a jungle so the plant life is exotic. 🌴 There are beautiful, colorful birds. 🦜The zoo aviary actually has no top so the birds may fly out during the day and then come back at night so there’s a chance you will see a very colorful tropical bird when you’re out walking. Colombia is the country with the most fruit varieties in the entire world. Tropical and exotic plants are everywhere. The weather ranges between 60° and the lower 80s throughout the year. There have been times in the sun that I have been hot but I have never been cold; and this is December through February. ☀️ Colombians are passionate about their music 🎶 and dancing, and I’ve never seen so many different ways to dance-as here. 🎉The culture is very rich and the people enjoy life. On the negative side, the government does not seem to care too much about safety for pedestrians. For some reason there are lots of utility covers missing from the sidewalks and there are holes you have to watch for everywhere. Sidewalks also get pushed up by the roots of trees due to their close proximity, so just watch your step And cars often do not stop at red lights or stop signs so just be careful as a pedestrian. There are slower times for certain government and company services like getting packages delivered or getting a response from the phone company but this is normal here. Only the US has instant gratification in services. I could easily settle down here for the rest of my life, and I’m not even a city man. Sorry for the long commentary.😂
This guy defines EXACTLY where i an in life. I'm a Marine Corps veteran, 52, no kids and have been longing to visit Colombia for 10 plus years. Now that I'm at a place where i can travel freely with no spouse or children, I will be doing that in the coming months. I don't party, i do not drink, I prefer to meet women the traditional way in stores, at the grocery store or at a place i know i could see her when i go there to establish familiarity and consistency before any serious happens. Peace is what I'm in need of at this juncture of life and I will pursue it.
Army vet, 52 this year, and have bounced all over the country of Colombia soaking in the positive energy and culture. You'll love it BUT learn some of the language beforehand. It's not just essential as a survival skill but it'll DEEPLY enhance your experience because you can connect so much more to the people. Don't worry. Fluency isn't necessary. Just show the effort and they'll greatly appreciate it. AIRBORNE!!
Great video! I agree 100% with what Elliot said. I've traveled to (and lived in) Medellín and beyond, Solo, so I know. Sad thing now is that Medellín and other major cities are attracting too many of the wrong types of tourists, which is starting F it up for everyone else.
I''m so glad this brotha is representing us African-American men in an positive, intelligent light. I get so tired and upset that when I travel and I see the "Pookies" and "Ray-Ray's" acting foul and undoing all of the "good work" myself and people like Eliott do around the world LOL
Great interview! I'm a Black American, retired Air Force. I'm 64. This is my 2nd year living in Colombia. I lived in Cartagena my first year and now in Medellin. My man was spot on everything he stated. I have a Cedula retirement visa until 2025 and plan on renewing to stay. 🇨🇴
I've been to Cartagena 6 times. How would you compare Medellin and which would you choose now having been to both? Looking for some where to settle down for the rest of my life. Not looking for a woman at all but if it happened that's fine.
Thank you. I am not a Passport Bro nor a high value man. Just a man who travels while making over six figures. Traveling is an experience and not focus around traveling for women.
Amazing interview: Elliot is so wise. It is so refreshing to listen to such a balanced and nuanced fellow black man. Great job also interviewing also AK !
Absolutely captivating interview! I appreciate how he eloquently shared positive insights about Medellin as a whole. As someone residing in Medellin from the US, this conversation has truly been inspirational for me. This aligns perfectly with what I've been conveying to others who worry about the negative information they've received about the country.
What a lucky man! Retired at 45 and retired and living in Medellin! He paid his dues and is young enough to really enjoy retirement and his free life. I said lucky but he made his luck! 🍀👍
I like this guy and his attitude! I am white, from Michigan, and I have been living part time in Medellin since 2018 and I agree with him 100%. Great interview!
Great interview! This guy is solid and when you live this type of life the results living in Colombia can be as positive as he speaks about! Big ups to that guy! Peace
Much needed Amazing insite, and an Ispiration. On this one Elliott you summed it up Thoroughly. You summed it up Good on this topic, really. I think you hit it on the nail. Bringing awarness for those who want to travel there to Medellin Colombia, and beyond Medellin
For you foreigners here in Medellin, I can recommend two places to meet women. The first is a co-working like WeWork. Go work there and you will meet very interesting and intelligent women. Second, a language exchange, we have many here in town and we use them to practice English and other languages, but, mm don't trust a woman who doesn't speak or study English hehe. Usually the people who go there are because they are studying English and they want to practice, or they have a good level of English and they want to improve it for their job.
All single men that enjoy traveling can be called passport bro's. Cudos to all of us for having the guts to seek adventure. Elliot is a relatable representative. The label originated in the female American black community. Whatever, I agree with Elliot. I am a US citizen. I choose to live in Medellin with my Colombian wife, and son. AK seems more objective in this video. Congratulations, dude.
Great interview! It's refreshing to hear such insight and perspective from a black man living abroad. MDE is a wonderful place to live (and visit). This definitely helps to give a more accurate and realistic narrative about life here, or anywhere abroad, as an expat.
I'm a disabled combat veteran of the United States Marine Corps and I plan to move to the Dominican Republic and I'm fortunate enough to have met a beautiful Dominicana who wants me to move there and get married.
Nice interview! I'm from Bogotá, living in Bogotá. I've never visited Medellín. But Medellím has always visited me here in Bogotá. LOL Anyway, I ended up moving to Long Island, New York, back in 1985. I was 15 years old then. I lived there for 8 + years straight and finally in 1993 I came back to Bogotá for the first time in almost a decade. I was just coming to briefly visit Bogotá and immediately go back to The States again. However, on my very first day back in Bogotá, I seriously started thinking about staying here for good. By the third day, I had already made up my mind. So I stayed and never looked back. What made me stay? The soothing freedom you feel as you breathe in the spiritual energy here versus the up tight attitude or feeling of a never ending materialistic quest ever prersent in the American culture. Thus I can certainly relate to Elliot. Cheers!
Great job guys! I personally know and can vouch for Eliott and he is a man of his words and actions. Great questions, points and answers were given. Keep it up! We need positivity in our lives.
Any chance you can assist with me moving to Medellin? I'm going to be there for a month to test it out but have been to other Colombian cities multiple times. Just looking for good people to surround myself with. Thanks!
Wow, what a wonderful interview. Elliot knows more about Colombia than I do, and I was born there. I've been thinking about moving there, and ironically I feel like a foreigner when I am there visiting.... But this has changed my pov tremendously. Thank you Elliot and AK.
Thank you sir for having served our country. I hope one day you come back to your country, your country misses you. Please take good care of yourself in Colombia.
This video showed up randomly on my list of recommended videos....had no intention of watching the entire video....but as a black American who has recently moved to Medellin (or at least staying for 6 months initially), I decided to look at it for a couple minutes..and was instantly hooked...Elliot is articulate, intelligent, positive, insightful, honest..Joel's list of questions was thoughtful and provided the basis for Elliot's replies...at the end, I watched all 25:49 minutes of the interview and am happy it crossed my path. Best of luck to both guys...very well done!
You have any advice for a black man looking to move to Medellin? I've been to Cartagena 6 times but I think Medellin is where I can call home. Any tips for surviving and thriving there?
Well done interview, very detailed and balanced approached. One of the best I have seen thus far online about these specific topics. Thanks for the outstanding work, I just subscribed and will be following your content, thanks again.
Great interview I agree with brother Elliott on how he felt when he first came to the country. I felt that way also. It's a whole different vibe. Feel like I'm at home. I have a same feelings and experiences that he has on the United States. Can you understand we have more but yet still unhappy and miserable. You leave the country. People have less, but they're much happier. I'm at great people and I love being there. I also agree with you on the women if they like you. They like you and they show it. Also, some guys come down there to party and end up in terrible situations. It is unfortunate when has happened to the people that have passed on. It's a bad look for the country also. You can't judge the country on some mistakes some people have made. I for one have not put myself in that position. Overall, I can't wait to be there permanently. I am working on that currently. But this was a great interview. I am glad to have called it.
Everything this wise man has said is true. A friend of mine and I went to visit colombia a couple of years ago and let me tell you ,we fell in love with this country. We didn't want to leave, in fact I'm wanting to retire there with my wife. Hopefully someday. Thanks for the words of wisdom.
31 af am, went for a month to Cali/Bogota, loved every second! Wouldn't recommend it as a first country though, Spanish is not required but strongly suggested. DR would be better. Stayed in Oct '23 and can't wait to plan going back to stay! It was interesting to see afro colombians and different facets of black culture
Only five minutes into the video, and everything he says is 100 % true. I’m only 24 my goal is to travel all over the world, and be my OWN BOSS. I went to bogota in December, and Medellin in January and it completely changed my mentality. My goal is to move to Medellin by time im 30 and own a few properties!!!
I'm happy that the average person who travels to Medellin was interviewed. Too many of the wrong type of men are highlighted and made to seem like they are the majority when they are not! FYI, there are so many pookies and ray rays who are delusional and call other people pookies and ray rays, when they are them. lol
Great interview this man is very smart and respectful and well spoken very insightful if you travel with morals and values you can avoid very stupid and dangerous situations
As a Colombian citizen from Medellin I appreciate the work that you are doing Joel and experiences like Elliot there, shows that Colombia is not the lawless land sold by all movies and series in every media including ours, that is already history, of course we still have our issues I cannot deny it, but we have much to offer for tourists and people who wants to settle here, as long as they come with good will and good intentions everyone is welcome here. I had a nice experience with a 72 years old man from Florida who came to Copacabana, a little town in the north of Medellin (Very odd to see a foreigner so far in the north), that man needed assistance with a bank transaction and he had his issues with the spanish pronunciation, I was the only english-speaking person there, I helped him to translate and after that he thanked me a lot, I know that learn and speak spanish is difficult, so he was very grateful.
@@AKJoel Thanks man, but still that story also makes me laugh sometimes, because the rest of the people there looked at us with a odd expresión, like I said is very weird see a foreigner so far in the north of the Aburra Valley in a little town like Copacabana, but it is even weirder to see a local like me speaking a fluent english conversation with a foreigner, just imagine the scene.
Great interview. Good to see brothers like Elliot who have standards and morals living their lives on their terms and really looking to embrace new cultures… not just looking to trick off 24/7. He made a very good point about the “programming” that goes on in America. The media isn’t as pervasive in other countries as it is there. People aren’t as conditioned to hate one another. My one concern with Colombia when it comes to living there (other than the safety aspect) would be their response to C-19. The way that they treated their citizens was draconian to the extreme… and I think that the country has become less safe as a result of it. So many people lost their jobs and livelihoods when they shut the country down kept people inside for 5 or 6 days a week. I don’t think I could live somewhere that could suspend my freedom to such an extent.
You should've seen what the government did in Melbourne (my city.) Luckily I was already out of the country but my mates were all basically trapped inside for 2 years. Horrible times!
That’s true. I do recall that. Arresting people for going to the park too. It’s a shame because I always wanted to visit Melbourne and Brisbane… but not anymore.
“A "passport bro" is a man who travels the world to date foreign women, often in the hopes of finding a life partner.” I don’t call myself passport bro. Just a traveler
This guy is talking a lot of good sense and I would like to add that you should ideally be able to speak some Spanish before you go there, and travel around the country first.
I’m considered one of these “passport bros” I went over seas to the Philippines and I have a girlfriend there. We are planning on being together again in the next 6 months to celebrate one year together. And then I am off to live in the Philippines with her. I hate this term “passport bros” I think it sounds like a lazy and pathetic term. People have to have their labels on something and to me this sounds like it was just discovered that men do this when in actuality men have been going overseas to meet their female counterparts for decades, there was no term for it then, so idk why it’s a thing now.
Wow that was probably the best interview from real "boots on the ground". It felt non-biased and factual. I'm interested in Cali myself but the things in this interview helped to clarify some concerns, in case I do end up in Medellín
My experience as a mixed race but mostly caucasian-looking guy has been that although many Colombians are fairly liberal and open-minded about races and cultures there is indeed some strong and overt racism in Colombia. Perhaps it's not so strong in cities such as Medellín but in many areas I have heard people openly talking about how they dislike black people and assign many negative qualities to them as a group, although they are not hostile to them in person.
Sorry to hear that, I've never experienced racism here in Colombia. Whereas in Australia it was a monthly occurrence.
28 дней назад
I'm from Medellín, and I have thought much about that. I think we are more if a classist society to han a racist one. I mean, people discriminates more because socio-econimic differences than race. People will judge you by your education and economic status and that will be the main reason to accept you or ignore you . I think younger generations are more open, but unfortunately my perception is that the cultural-educational level is also lower this days. People are, in general, more proud of being vulgar and ignorant on the premise they are free, and you only live once ,and life is to be enjoyed the fullest, and they don't spend time making the best of themselves and improve themselves to be better persons.
A passport bro Joel is a man who is a foreigner usually from North America or Europe who loves to travel to foreign countries. Most of them are looking for a future wife. Some of them are just in these foreign countries for sex. Usually, passport bros have a good-paying job or a bit of wealth because they usually travel to many countries. So they have to have saved up for these trips or have a little bit of wealth because paying for hotel and airfares is quite costly. They also need to have extra cash to buy some things too or in the case of an emergency.
Good interview! However, it is not very comprehensive, since he has been only in Medellin. I feel like there would be value in inteviewing black men in OTHER parts of Colombia. I am 49 y/o (my bday was in November). I am a Nigerian-American, lived 31 years in the USA (3 different states/regions), and now living on a budget, in BARRANQUILLA. I am single, in good health, and I am socially conscious. I also blog about my travels, specifically LIVING in Barranquilla. I talk about the good AND the bad... I don't sugercoat things. Joel, if you ever want a different perspective, from a different region of Colombia, feel free to hit me up.
Those murder stats sound iffy. I suspect there's some serious under-reporting going on. Or at least homicides are classified as something else (e.g. somebody is never found again is not technically a homicide). Been in Medellin 6 weeks now and I love it. I am strongly considering making this place my second Latin American home (after Panama where I lived the last 4 years)
Bro we have no idea what happened to that guy that fell off the roof of the balcony so we got to be careful how we say these people are dying that s*** looks so sus to me
I think the passport bro hate is real and this guy is somewhat disingenuous. The guys who have been robbed and drugged did not travel there to be robbed and drugged. So that’s victim blaming. Also America by design is structured to hold certain groups back. So the opportunities are not equal for all America is a caste system
I agree with the title. Though I will go farther. Do not label me as WHATEVER-Noun Bro. If it is a known term it almost always has derogatory orgins if not always being derogatory.
One thing occurred to me... in the last 17 months in South America, nobody here has called me a passport bro. Maybe either because the term is primarily used on the internet or in the physical world only by English speakers (apart from the last week I have had no interactions with native English speakers.) Do Colombians say the word "passport bro" much?
Joel will be interesting to see how your content develops .. There will be a lot of dont get drugged dont get robbed in Medellin videos to come in the next few months.. Hopefully you can overshadow that ...
Hey Priya, I honestly find it boring to constantly talk about the drugged and robbed issue - I won't be speaking about it much as I prefer to discuss more positive topics :)
Its pretty wild to me that Colombia is a place where dating apps aren't safe, and the men who use them are blamed for being unintelligent or having no morals for using them. Let that sink in.
What did you do the first two weeks you were there? Going to visit for a month to see if I can call it home forever. Trying to get a solid timeline down.
I’m not Hispanic and I know rule that any Spanish word when 2 Ls is pronounced as a Y. Why do soooo many non Spanish speakers even those who live in Columbia pronounce the LL as a G?
Elliot, I understand your story completely. You have found the place that gives you what the US tries to destroy PEACE!! I plan to retire to Mexico in a few years and travel several countries like Kuala Lumpur, Pattaya, Belize, etc. #myretirementjourney
I have to correct something. You’re saying that Medellin is the safest it has been in 40 years. Well, that may be true for Medellín (& that is sort of an unfair standard since 40 years ago it would’ve been obscenely unsafe, and one of the most unsafe places in the world…thus that comparison is a little misleading or skewed though good nonetheless). That is great news for the city on whole, no question, though it may also be fair to be aware that according to the U.S. Department of State, more American men were murdered or assaulted in the last 4 months of 2023 than all prior 10 years combined. I am an American citizen who learned this by attending a Townhall in Medellín with our State Department a few months back, right around the time that you’ve produced this video so while I am very glad to hear about this and I believe that is true, I think those visiting, especially men, need to clarify their reasons and true intent for visiting and come to the country respectfully. I would imagine that is just one of the several reasons this guest has had a great experience (and I am glad that he has). How you choose to engage the city and treat other people - it won’t account for everything but it can account for a lot and make a big difference.
Anytime! You may have helped me save money on a flight today with the online visa extension tip. Ha, I had been looking for it and you helped greatly! Great channel - thx for sharing. 👏🏼
Can’t put all the blame on tourist especially when they are being targeted, not everyone had streets smarts and some people go to vocation not to have the guard up 24/7
Honestly, I don't recommend those who don't have street smarts to come to Medellin. There's plenty of other cities around the world more suited for them 👍🏾
@@AKJoel My thoughts are, why would anyone want to visit Medellin when you have to worry about issues regarding robberies, pick pockets, scopolamine if you're at a bar and take your eye's off of your drink, individuals getting targeted on purpose and being murdered, shootings etc, regardless of whether they have street smarts or not? That's the whole point of getting away from America in the first place. It makes no sense to me, in my mind Columbia/Medellin should be avoided at all costs until the government realizes they're losing tourism dollars. Not everyone is a sexpat, and the locals are beginning to have a negative mindset for foreigners in general.
I met a young black Columbian woman on a dating site could La chat we have been chatting texting for about 10 months but never face time or talk on the phone, she has sent me pictures videos we talked about getting married,I plan to come to Medellin Colombia in May we talk every day we a good conversation connection but we have never face time or talk on the phone what would you recommend ? Ken
I have Street smart surround by nothing but criminal activity in Sacramento California .. I just seen your video just wanted a little more insight about local people, my woman told me she is going to pick me up at the airport, and she said she didn't want me to get lost we have a great connection I'm looking forward to coming to Columbia,if things don't work out getting back on the Airplane and return to America...
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As a Colombian is so refreshing to hear a guy like Elliot speak when we are used to all of these “pookie ray ray” type tourist, he has the right mindset, Colombia is not some type of lawless third world country, be a good tourist and you’ll have a wonderful time
I feel you. Even the mayor of Medellin said something very similar recently - "we want positive tourism"
How do you know he ain't tricking? It's not the kind of thing most people are going to admit to on youtube.
@@micclayhe definitely is…It’s Medellin. Everything is for sale.
What a lovely man Elliot is! His intelligence, integrity and deep gratitude for all that is good in his life are qualities that many people this day in age don't embody. Thanks for a great interview, Joel. This gave me a big smile today! 💖🙏💖
This black dude is a breath of fresh air.... the opposite of the typical pookies that visit colombia
I loved making this video and I'm happy to show that black men are not all like the pookies that f it up for everyone else
I can spot a pookie a mile away. I just pretend I don't speak English 😂
Does this brotha speak Spanish fluently?
@@AKJoelWatch your mouth.. let’s keep it respectful.
cookies are passport bros too.
45 , retired, and living in Medellin , my guy is living the dream. Salute 💯
Military retirement is a beautiful thing. He’s 45 so he’s probably been retired for several years. 6 more years for me
How
Elliot hit the nail on the head!!
I and my brother, moved from the United States from two different states to come here and live in Medellin, Colombia. We’ve only been here a few months and everything that Elliot said is true. He explained it so well- there is a peacefulness(in spite of the crazy traffic at times) and a slower pace of life. The family unit is very strong. People gather in each neighborhood at a local store or outdoor café and talk about the day’s or the week’s events or the upcoming game. Old couples still hold hands when they walk and I don’t even see that in the US anymore. Public displays of affection are common and very endearing. Younger women are not afraid to go out with older men and most of them are genuine. Elliot said do not meet girls on dating sites and he is correct!
Look for genuine women in their workplace, or in the gym, or in the University or in the mall. The mall and gym are often highly populated with the most beautiful girls and women.💃🏽Even older women take such good care of themselves that they remain absolutely stunning in many cases. And I have never been to a place where the sheer number of women are so beautiful. 😵💫
They walk a lot and take care of themselves, and they like to look good.😳😀 Medellin itself is a gorgeous city, built in a valley surrounded by mountains and also built within a jungle so the plant life is exotic. 🌴
There are beautiful, colorful birds. 🦜The zoo aviary actually has no top so the birds may fly out during the day and then come back at night so there’s a chance you will see a very colorful tropical bird when you’re out walking. Colombia is the country with the most fruit varieties in the entire world. Tropical and exotic plants are everywhere. The weather ranges between 60° and the lower 80s throughout the year. There have been times in the sun that I have been hot but I have never been cold; and this is December through February. ☀️
Colombians are passionate about their music 🎶 and dancing, and I’ve never seen so many different ways to dance-as here. 🎉The culture is very rich and the people enjoy life.
On the negative side, the government does not seem to care too much about safety for pedestrians. For some reason there are lots of utility covers missing from the sidewalks and there are holes you have to watch for everywhere. Sidewalks also get pushed up by the roots of trees due to their close proximity, so just watch your step And cars often do not stop at red lights or stop signs so just be careful as a pedestrian. There are slower times for certain government and company services like getting packages delivered or getting a response from the phone company but this is normal here. Only the US has instant gratification in services.
I could easily settle down here for the rest of my life, and I’m not even a city man. Sorry for the long commentary.😂
Haha no worries thanks for taking the time to write it!
Great info, thanks!
This guy defines EXACTLY where i an in life. I'm a Marine Corps veteran, 52, no kids and have been longing to visit Colombia for 10 plus years. Now that I'm at a place where i can travel freely with no spouse or children, I will be doing that in the coming months. I don't party, i do not drink, I prefer to meet women the traditional way in stores, at the grocery store or at a place i know i could see her when i go there to establish familiarity and consistency before any serious happens. Peace is what I'm in need of at this juncture of life and I will pursue it.
You have a great attitude! You're gonna love Colombia 🙂
I am a Marine Corps veteran and I love Colombia. Come on down Devil Dog. I am 51.
You'll love Colombia, and even if languages are tough for you learning Spanish will be a joy because of all the wonderful people you'll meet.
Semper Fi brother ill be there in May. Same here im just a mellow guy
Army vet, 52 this year, and have bounced all over the country of Colombia soaking in the positive energy and culture. You'll love it BUT learn some of the language beforehand. It's not just essential as a survival skill but it'll DEEPLY enhance your experience because you can connect so much more to the people. Don't worry. Fluency isn't necessary. Just show the effort and they'll greatly appreciate it. AIRBORNE!!
Great video! I agree 100% with what Elliot said. I've traveled to (and lived in) Medellín and beyond, Solo, so I know. Sad thing now is that Medellín and other major cities are attracting too many of the wrong types of tourists, which is starting F it up for everyone else.
Well said! Hopefully that changes soon 🙏🏾
I''m so glad this brotha is representing us African-American men in an positive, intelligent light. I get so tired and upset that when I travel and I see the "Pookies" and "Ray-Ray's" acting foul and undoing all of the "good work" myself and people like Eliott do around the world LOL
Best guest I've listened to. I hope you have him back again. Stoic & very intelligent conversation. Gave us the best visual & strategy while there
Definitely will have him back at some point!
Excellent video! Thanks for interviewing him and getting his perspective on Medellín. Hopefully you'll bring him back for future videos.
Great interview! I'm a Black American, retired Air Force. I'm 64. This is my 2nd year living in Colombia. I lived in Cartagena my first year and now in Medellin. My man was spot on everything he stated. I have a Cedula retirement visa until 2025 and plan on renewing to stay. 🇨🇴
Enjoy your time in Medellin :)
I've been to Cartagena 6 times. How would you compare Medellin and which would you choose now having been to both? Looking for some where to settle down for the rest of my life. Not looking for a woman at all but if it happened that's fine.
Thank you. I am not a Passport Bro nor a high value man. Just a man who travels while making over six figures. Traveling is an experience and not focus around traveling for women.
Damn good interview. Sharp brother
Glad ya enjoyed it mate!
Great interview. It’s good to hear of great experiences from black men. That was my experience as well. Can’t wait to move there in May
Good choice making the move!
I appreciate this black man sharing the value of living in Colombia.
very informative video , elliot sounds very grounded & centered with life-experience wisdom
A very wise man indeed!
Amazing interview: Elliot is so wise. It is so refreshing to listen to such a balanced and nuanced fellow black man. Great job also interviewing also AK !
Glad you enjoyed it!
Absolutely captivating interview! I appreciate how he eloquently shared positive insights about Medellin as a whole. As someone residing in Medellin from the US, this conversation has truly been inspirational for me. This aligns perfectly with what I've been conveying to others who worry about the negative information they've received about the country.
I'm glad you enjoyed the interview :) thanks for your comment!
What a lucky man! Retired at 45 and retired and living in Medellin! He paid his dues and is young enough to really enjoy retirement and his free life. I said lucky but he made his luck! 🍀👍
I like this guy and his attitude! I am white, from Michigan, and I have been living part time in Medellin since 2018 and I agree with him 100%. Great interview!
Any crime trouble for you there in your time ?
As an expat living in Bogotá, I appreciate this interview gentlemen.
Thank you!
Great interview! This guy is solid and when you live this type of life the results living in Colombia can be as positive as he speaks about! Big ups to that guy! Peace
Brothers finding their arc..and living it! Great interview AK Joel.
Glad you enjoyed it!!
That was a good interview. I'm considering moving to Medellin when I retire. I learned a lot
Congrats in the impending retirement, I hope Medellin works out for you 🙂
Very good interview and Elliot seems like a very respectable person
Glad you enjoyed it Carlos!
Much needed Amazing insite, and an Ispiration. On this one Elliott you summed it up Thoroughly. You summed it up Good on this topic, really. I think you hit it on the nail. Bringing awarness for those who want to travel there to Medellin Colombia, and beyond Medellin
For you foreigners here in Medellin, I can recommend two places to meet women. The first is a co-working like WeWork. Go work there and you will meet very interesting and intelligent women. Second, a language exchange, we have many here in town and we use them to practice English and other languages, but, mm don't trust a woman who doesn't speak or study English hehe. Usually the people who go there are because they are studying English and they want to practice, or they have a good level of English and they want to improve it for their job.
Brilliant advice 👏 I tell all my single mates this exact advice. 💯
This is a very romanticized view. Medellin can be hood too.
BUT I’m glad he’s safe and having a good time.
There are many places in the world that can be HOOD too.
It can definitely be hood, depending on the decisions you make and situations you put yourself in. Thanks for your comment 👍🏾
One of the BEST YT videos/interviews that I've seen on MDE and thanks for "debunking" the misinterpretation of "passport bros!"😂
Glad you enjoyed it!
All single men that enjoy traveling can be called passport bro's. Cudos to all of us for having the guts to seek adventure. Elliot is a relatable representative. The label originated in the female American black community. Whatever, I agree with Elliot. I am a US citizen. I choose to live in Medellin with my Colombian wife, and son. AK seems more objective in this video. Congratulations, dude.
Glad you enjoyed the video mate 👍🏾
Great interview gents! Marine Corps values are evident 🫡
Medellin needs more expats like Eliott!
God bless y’all Joel, this was a great interview
Thanks mate I had fun making this one, some great insights from Elliot!
@@AKJoel Elliot is very cool, I look forward to seeing more interviews from ya buddy
all Facts!!!!!! this was on point. Medellin is BOMB!!!! love it
Me too!
Great interview!!!!
Great interview! It's refreshing to hear such insight and perspective from a black man living abroad. MDE is a wonderful place to live (and visit). This definitely helps to give a more accurate and realistic narrative about life here, or anywhere abroad, as an expat.
Glad you enjoyed the vid!
One of your best interviews, he broke things down exactly how things should be. Love it!
Glad you enjoyed it mate!
I'm a disabled combat veteran of the United States Marine Corps and I plan to move to the Dominican Republic and I'm fortunate enough to have met a beautiful Dominicana who wants me to move there and get married.
Nice interview! I'm from Bogotá, living in Bogotá. I've never visited Medellín. But Medellím has always visited me here in Bogotá. LOL Anyway, I ended up moving to Long Island, New York, back in 1985. I was 15 years old then. I lived there for 8 + years straight and finally in 1993 I came back to Bogotá for the first time in almost a decade. I was just coming to briefly visit Bogotá and immediately go back to The States again. However, on my very first day back in Bogotá, I seriously started thinking about staying here for good. By the third day, I had already made up my mind. So I stayed and never looked back. What made me stay? The soothing freedom you feel as you breathe in the spiritual energy here versus the up tight attitude or feeling of a never ending materialistic quest ever prersent in the American culture. Thus I can certainly relate to Elliot. Cheers!
Great job guys! I personally know and can vouch for Eliott and he is a man of his words and actions. Great questions, points and answers were given. Keep it up! We need positivity in our lives.
Any chance you can assist with me moving to Medellin? I'm going to be there for a month to test it out but have been to other Colombian cities multiple times. Just looking for good people to surround myself with. Thanks!
Wow, what a wonderful interview. Elliot knows more about Colombia than I do, and I was born there. I've been thinking about moving there, and ironically I feel like a foreigner when I am there visiting.... But this has changed my pov tremendously. Thank you Elliot and AK.
No worries, glad you enjoyed it! I had a lot of fun with this one :)
Bonjour and Hello to your guest from Jacksonville, Fl. What a lovely man!
Great interview
Thanks! I had fun making this one!
this was a really great interview
Glad you enjoyed it 😊
A great interview with a cool dude. Really makes me consider.
Excellent interview Elliot.
Absolutely! Thanks for your comment too.
Great interview!
Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
Que gran vision , esa es la clase de personas que queremos en colombia, no los locos que buscan drogas y protitutas.
Thank you sir for having served our country. I hope one day you come back to your country, your country misses you. Please take good care of yourself in Colombia.
This video showed up randomly on my list of recommended videos....had no intention of watching the entire video....but as a black American who has recently moved to Medellin (or at least staying for 6 months initially), I decided to look at it for a couple minutes..and was instantly hooked...Elliot is articulate, intelligent, positive, insightful, honest..Joel's list of questions was thoughtful and provided the basis for Elliot's replies...at the end, I watched all 25:49 minutes of the interview and am happy it crossed my path.
Best of luck to both guys...very well done!
You have any advice for a black man looking to move to Medellin? I've been to Cartagena 6 times but I think Medellin is where I can call home. Any tips for surviving and thriving there?
Well done interview, very detailed and balanced approached. One of the best I have seen thus far online about these specific topics. Thanks for the outstanding work, I just subscribed and will be following your content, thanks again.
Awesome dude !
Thanks!
Nice interview!
Great interview I agree with brother Elliott on how he felt when he first came to the country. I felt that way also. It's a whole different vibe. Feel like I'm at home. I have a same feelings and experiences that he has on the United States. Can you understand we have more but yet still unhappy and miserable. You leave the country. People have less, but they're much happier. I'm at great people and I love being there. I also agree with you on the women if they like you. They like you and they show it. Also, some guys come down there to party and end up in terrible situations. It is unfortunate when has happened to the people that have passed on. It's a bad look for the country also. You can't judge the country on some mistakes some people have made. I for one have not put myself in that position. Overall, I can't wait to be there permanently. I am working on that currently. But this was a great interview. I am glad to have called it.
Hopefully you achieve your dream of moving here permanently one day soon! Thanks for your comment :)
Everything this wise man has said is true. A friend of mine and I went to visit colombia a couple of years ago and let me tell you ,we fell in love with this country. We didn't want to leave, in fact I'm wanting to retire there with my wife. Hopefully someday. Thanks for the words of wisdom.
31 af am, went for a month to Cali/Bogota, loved every second! Wouldn't recommend it as a first country though, Spanish is not required but strongly suggested. DR would be better. Stayed in Oct '23 and can't wait to plan going back to stay! It was interesting to see afro colombians and different facets of black culture
Yeah you're right - if you've never travelled before Colombia could be a bit of a tricky first destination lol
Only five minutes into the video, and everything he says is 100 % true. I’m only 24 my goal is to travel all over the world, and be my OWN BOSS. I went to bogota in December, and Medellin in January and it completely changed my mentality. My goal is to move to Medellin by time im 30 and own a few properties!!!
Spot on.
His closing statement 👌🏼
great man wish him all the best
I'm happy that the average person who travels to Medellin was interviewed. Too many of the wrong type of men are highlighted and made to seem like they are the majority when they are not! FYI, there are so many pookies and ray rays who are delusional and call other people pookies and ray rays, when they are them. lol
Glad you enjoyed the vid! And you have a great point lol too many low level guys have somehow become the representation of a whole group
Listening to this as a black man had gave me the confidence to change my trip and stay for 10 days vs spain in Aug! Too hot
Champion! Enjoy Medellin :)
Awesome conversation!
Glad you enjoyed it!
The chemistry between you both is on point keep going sir!
Great interview this man is very smart and respectful and well spoken very insightful if you travel with morals and values you can avoid very stupid and dangerous situations
As a Colombian citizen from Medellin I appreciate the work that you are doing Joel and experiences like Elliot there, shows that Colombia is not the lawless land sold by all movies and series in every media including ours, that is already history, of course we still have our issues I cannot deny it, but we have much to offer for tourists and people who wants to settle here, as long as they come with good will and good intentions everyone is welcome here.
I had a nice experience with a 72 years old man from Florida who came to Copacabana, a little town in the north of Medellin (Very odd to see a foreigner so far in the north), that man needed assistance with a bank transaction and he had his issues with the spanish pronunciation, I was the only english-speaking person there, I helped him to translate and after that he thanked me a lot, I know that learn and speak spanish is difficult, so he was very grateful.
Thank you for helping this man, you're a nice guy!
@@AKJoel Thanks man, but still that story also makes me laugh sometimes, because the rest of the people there looked at us with a odd expresión, like I said is very weird see a foreigner so far in the north of the Aburra Valley in a little town like Copacabana, but it is even weirder to see a local like me speaking a fluent english conversation with a foreigner, just imagine the scene.
Thank you for this video
No worries, thanks for your comment!
"I'm a passport man" made me laugh. Lol. Great video.
That's an all time classic quote lol he needs to make t shirts with that on it 😂
Great interview. Good to see brothers like Elliot who have standards and morals living their lives on their terms and really looking to embrace new cultures… not just looking to trick off 24/7.
He made a very good point about the “programming” that goes on in America. The media isn’t as pervasive in other countries as it is there. People aren’t as conditioned to hate one another.
My one concern with Colombia when it comes to living there (other than the safety aspect) would be their response to C-19. The way that they treated their citizens was draconian to the extreme… and I think that the country has become less safe as a result of it. So many people lost their jobs and livelihoods when they shut the country down kept people inside for 5 or 6 days a week. I don’t think I could live somewhere that could suspend my freedom to such an extent.
You should've seen what the government did in Melbourne (my city.) Luckily I was already out of the country but my mates were all basically trapped inside for 2 years. Horrible times!
That’s true. I do recall that. Arresting people for going to the park too. It’s a shame because I always wanted to visit Melbourne and Brisbane… but not anymore.
“A "passport bro" is a man who travels the world to date foreign women, often in the hopes of finding a life partner.”
I don’t call myself passport bro. Just a traveler
This guy is talking a lot of good sense and I would like to add that you should ideally be able to speak some Spanish before you go there, and travel around the country first.
Yeah, you're right! Spanish makes a HUGE difference to your overall satisfaction in this country.
it's an excellent conversation. accurate. full of insight and humility. I'm here too, since 2020. living very local. meet sometime. dale.
I’m considered one of these “passport bros” I went over seas to the Philippines and I have a girlfriend there. We are planning on being together again in the next 6 months to celebrate one year together. And then I am off to live in the Philippines with her. I hate this term “passport bros” I think it sounds like a lazy and pathetic term. People have to have their labels on something and to me this sounds like it was just discovered that men do this when in actuality men have been going overseas to meet their female counterparts for decades, there was no term for it then, so idk why it’s a thing now.
Wow that was probably the best interview from real "boots on the ground". It felt non-biased and factual. I'm interested in Cali myself but the things in this interview helped to clarify some concerns, in case I do end up in Medellín
Glad you enjoyed it as much as I loved making it!
My experience as a mixed race but mostly caucasian-looking guy has been that although many Colombians are fairly liberal and open-minded about races and cultures there is indeed some strong and overt racism in Colombia. Perhaps it's not so strong in cities such as Medellín but in many areas I have heard people openly talking about how they dislike black people and assign many negative qualities to them as a group, although they are not hostile to them in person.
Sorry to hear that, I've never experienced racism here in Colombia. Whereas in Australia it was a monthly occurrence.
I'm from Medellín, and I have thought much about that. I think we are more if a classist society to han a racist one.
I mean, people discriminates more because socio-econimic differences than race.
People will judge you by your education and economic status and that will be the main reason to accept you or ignore you .
I think younger generations are more open, but unfortunately my perception is that the cultural-educational level is also lower this days. People are, in general, more proud of being vulgar and ignorant on the premise they are free, and you only live once ,and life is to be enjoyed the fullest, and they don't spend time making the best of themselves and improve themselves to be better persons.
Elliott seems great lad
A passport bro Joel is a man who is a foreigner usually from North America or Europe who loves to travel to foreign countries. Most of them are looking for a future wife. Some of them are just in these foreign countries for sex. Usually, passport bros have a good-paying job or a bit of wealth because they usually travel to many countries. So they have to have saved up for these trips or have a little bit of wealth because paying for hotel and airfares is quite costly. They also need to have extra cash to buy some things too or in the case of an emergency.
Good interview! However, it is not very comprehensive, since he has been only in Medellin. I feel like there would be value in inteviewing black men in OTHER parts of Colombia. I am 49 y/o (my bday was in November). I am a Nigerian-American, lived 31 years in the USA (3 different states/regions), and now living on a budget, in BARRANQUILLA. I am single, in good health, and I am socially conscious.
I also blog about my travels, specifically LIVING in Barranquilla. I talk about the good AND the bad... I don't sugercoat things.
Joel, if you ever want a different perspective, from a different region of Colombia, feel free to hit me up.
I've been to other parts I live here full time so I'm familiar with Cartagnea Cali San Andrés and other parts what do you want to know
I did not hear anything about the language. Does he speak Spanish and how does it affect his ability to date the women?
Do more videos like these
Will do!
Those murder stats sound iffy. I suspect there's some serious under-reporting going on. Or at least homicides are classified as something else (e.g. somebody is never found again is not technically a homicide).
Been in Medellin 6 weeks now and I love it. I am strongly considering making this place my second Latin American home (after Panama where I lived the last 4 years)
I hate how the word hood is repeatedly being used as if hoods don’t exist in Medellin (Communa 13) and all over the world
Bro we have no idea what happened to that guy that fell off the roof of the balcony so we got to be careful how we say these people are dying that s*** looks so sus to me
Bro from Jacksonville!! No wonder he had no problem going to Medellín 😂
Thank you for acknowledging that African American’s experience at home and abroad is vastly different from other American races
I think the passport bro hate is real and this guy is somewhat disingenuous. The guys who have been robbed and drugged did not travel there to be robbed and drugged. So that’s victim blaming. Also America by design is structured to hold certain groups back. So the opportunities are not equal for all America is a caste system
Great man great mindset
No doubt!
I agree with the title. Though I will go farther. Do not label me as WHATEVER-Noun Bro. If it is a known term it almost always has derogatory orgins if not always being derogatory.
Yeah that's right. You don't often see positive terms going viral all over the internet lol
One thing occurred to me... in the last 17 months in South America, nobody here has called me a passport bro. Maybe either because the term is primarily used on the internet or in the physical world only by English speakers (apart from the last week I have had no interactions with native English speakers.) Do Colombians say the word "passport bro" much?
Joel will be interesting to see how your content develops .. There will be a lot of dont get drugged dont get robbed in Medellin videos to come in the next few months.. Hopefully you can overshadow that ...
Hey Priya, I honestly find it boring to constantly talk about the drugged and robbed issue - I won't be speaking about it much as I prefer to discuss more positive topics :)
Its pretty wild to me that Colombia is a place where dating apps aren't safe, and the men who use them are blamed for being unintelligent or having no morals for using them. Let that sink in.
It's true. In Latin America you need to protect yourself. If you do stupid things and pay the price nobody is gonna listen to you unfortunately.
@AKJoelsColombia How are mental health services in Colombia compared to USA?
They are excellent out here you also have Veteran services out here too
@@zionequitygroup107I didn’t know that about veteran cervices. Is there a VA clinic or something like that?
The people of the USA despite the complexions are all different.Their culture is based on their personal experiences...not exactly ethnicity
Very well said 👍🏾
Great interview but unless I missed it, you didn’t ask if he knew or learned Spanish along the way? That is a big one
Bienvenidos!
Gracias!
This is an interesting guy, inteligent. I think the same way. I live in medellin and have a similar experience than he does. Good interview.
I'm glad you enjoyed it mate :) thanks for your comment!
What did you do the first two weeks you were there? Going to visit for a month to see if I can call it home forever. Trying to get a solid timeline down.
I’m not Hispanic and I know rule that any Spanish word when 2 Ls is pronounced as a Y. Why do soooo many non Spanish speakers even those who live in Columbia pronounce the LL as a G?
In other words you gotta leave a half hour before the Devil shows up and you gotta say no to those Diddy parties
Never dance with the devil 🤘 lol
Elliot, I understand your story completely. You have found the place that gives you what the US tries to destroy PEACE!! I plan to retire to Mexico in a few years and travel several countries like Kuala Lumpur, Pattaya, Belize, etc. #myretirementjourney
Interesting
Yeah I loved this interview
I have to correct something. You’re saying that Medellin is the safest it has been in 40 years. Well, that may be true for Medellín (& that is sort of an unfair standard since 40 years ago it would’ve been obscenely unsafe, and one of the most unsafe places in the world…thus that comparison is a little misleading or skewed though good nonetheless). That is great news for the city on whole, no question, though it may also be fair to be aware that according to the U.S. Department of State, more American men were murdered or assaulted in the last 4 months of 2023 than all prior 10 years combined. I am an American citizen who learned this by attending a Townhall in Medellín with our State Department a few months back, right around the time that you’ve produced this video so while I am very glad to hear about this and I believe that is true, I think those visiting, especially men, need to clarify their reasons and true intent for visiting and come to the country respectfully. I would imagine that is just one of the several reasons this guest has had a great experience (and I am glad that he has). How you choose to engage the city and treat other people - it won’t account for everything but it can account for a lot and make a big difference.
This is a very good point, thanks for your comment!
Anytime! You may have helped me save money on a flight today with the online visa extension tip. Ha, I had been looking for it and you helped greatly! Great channel - thx for sharing. 👏🏼
Can’t put all the blame on tourist especially when they are being targeted, not everyone had streets smarts and some people go to vocation not to have the guard up 24/7
Honestly, I don't recommend those who don't have street smarts to come to Medellin. There's plenty of other cities around the world more suited for them 👍🏾
@@AKJoel My thoughts are, why would anyone want to visit Medellin when you have to worry about issues regarding robberies, pick pockets, scopolamine if you're at a bar and take your eye's off of your drink, individuals getting targeted on purpose and being murdered, shootings etc, regardless of whether they have street smarts or not? That's the whole point of getting away from America in the first place. It makes no sense to me, in my mind Columbia/Medellin should be avoided at all costs until the government realizes they're losing tourism dollars. Not everyone is a sexpat, and the locals are beginning to have a negative mindset for foreigners in general.
I met a young black Columbian woman on a dating site could La chat we have been chatting texting for about 10 months but never face time or talk on the phone, she has sent me pictures videos we talked about getting married,I plan to come to Medellin Colombia in May we talk every day we a good conversation connection but we have never face time or talk on the phone what would you recommend ? Ken
U got it all wrong. Tourists being targeted are usually men on dating apps or men looking for women. Women aren't being targeted here at all.
I have Street smart surround by nothing but criminal activity in Sacramento California .. I just seen your video just wanted a little more insight about local people, my woman told me she is going to pick me up at the airport, and she said she didn't want me to get lost we have a great connection I'm looking forward to coming to Columbia,if things don't work out getting back on the Airplane and return to America...
These are the types of Men we want to come to Latin America ❤
Absolutely!