Moving to Manizales from New York

masterita · 2011-10-02 22:35:28

My wife is from Colombia and we decided to move to Manizales. I have spent a few months in South America and about 2 weeks in Manizales. However we did allot of traveling, tourist stuff and visiting with her family so I didn't get a really good feel for the city or surrounding area.

Can anyone suggest some websites that will give me some background of different areas of Manizales so I can save some time when looking.

I am not much of a city person and like the suburbs and know this area has lots of mountains and not many houses with yards. We are looking to spend about $500 to $800 USD per month for a house or condo, $1000 max. Nice, quite neighborhood, perferibly with some land, but high speed internet is a must, due to my business.

We will be moving down November 17, 2011. I will also be bringing my German Shepherd, so any advice with or experience with bringing dogs into Colombia, would be appreciated too. Any help would be great.

Thank you,
Michael

Christine · 2011-10-03 08:26:13

Hi Michael,

Welcome to Expat blog! smile

Thank you for this introduction.

I wish you good luck in your search,
Christine
-------------
Expat blog team

millerb124 · 2012-03-04 21:28:51

Hi Michael,

It has been a while since your post, but I am hoping that you check-in now and then. I am retiring in July 2016 and am preparing
to make plans to move to Latin American to both stretch out my annual pension, and enjoy the Latin Culture that I have come to love. Manizales appeals to me because of it's size, the fact that it is a "College Town", climate, and it's natural beauty.

I have never been there so my vision is highly romanticized, I am aware of that. So, I am planning to visit this August. Anyways, I would love to hear how you have made out since your move. The stages that you went through, and what you have learned about the city.

Thanks,

Bruce Miller
Winsted, CT

masterita · 2012-03-07 18:31:34

Hi Bruce,

So far my time in Manizales has been very relaxing and enjoyable. There hasn't been much need for adjustment, other then just getting used to some new cultures and traditions. I have traveled through central Colombia and must say, Manizales is one of the safest, nicest and best all around of cities here in Colombia. The people in Manizales have traditional reserved, family values and are very friendly.

Being raised near Bear Mountain State Park (just across the river from you) Manizales is just the right size city and country for me. If I miss the snow, I can take a 30 minute ride up the mountain. Or if I miss the summer heat of the mid 80's, I can take a 30 minute drive down the mountain. You can rent a nice vacation house for about $100 a night.

There are natural hot water springs to enjoy. Little parks hidden in and around the city, most with breath taking views of the mountains. We also have a small airport here, which makes traveling to major cities or even internationally much easier. Public transportation is very convenient and affordable. A bus ride will cost you about 80 cents and a taxi ride from one side of town to the other may cost you about $5 at most. The temapture averages about 73 but ranges from 65 to 85 all year round.

If you are a meat and potato guy, then you will love the restaurants here. The food a good sized steak dinner here will cost about $10. If you like vegetables, well there isn't much on the menu but the grocery stores here are well stocked and prices are about 1/2 of what you would pay back home.

As far as stretching your annual pension, you can live a relatively comfortable lifestyle (compared to the USA) here in Manizales for about $800 to $1000 per month (comparably USA upper middle class).

The few down sides are, because Manizales is a small city, there is a limited selection of clothing and foods (compared to larger cities like Bogota). The organic / wholefoods market hasn't quite reached Manizales, when it comes to labeled products. There are also some areas (like any city) that you need to be careful walking through. Just use common sense and you will be ok. This can be a pro or a con, but tanning is quick and easy. Standing at 13,500 feet you can get a nice tan in about 15 to 20 minutes in the sun (regardless of tempature). Also the seasons are reversed here. August is our winter season, so it might be a little colder and a bit more rain and wind then usual.

Another down side for me is, I am a shorts and t-shirt kind of guy. For Manizales, this is more appropriate for going to the park. If you wear shorts around town, you will stand out as a tourist. Although I have never felt I was ever at any risk or danger, this does make you a target for pick pockets, purse / cell phone snatchers and (I am warned) a possible mugging. But I walk on the main streets, stay in public areas and live in a very secure, gated community. But in my opinion, the rewards of living in Manizales, far outway any risks.

If you have any specific questions, please feel free to ask and I will answer as best I can, as I am still learning about Manizales myself.

Regards,
Michael

PS - When you make it down to Manizales, let me know. We can maybe get together and I can give you a small tour of the small city and possibly introduce to you to other expats.

millerb124 · 2012-03-09 01:40:05

Hi Michael,

It was really good to hear from you. I am glad that you have found Manizales to your liking. I have only pictures and letters from a friend that describes the climate, surroundings and activities that she enjoys. The appeal to me again is size, and the availability of colleges. I am planning my summer vacation now, and Manizales is in the running next to Curacao, Panama, Costa Rica. I appreciate your invitation to get together when I come to Colombia, and I will certainly take you up on that. May I ask if you are working, and is it difficult to find work there. Of course, I know that depends upon what you want to do.
I have been an educator for thirty years. I would like to teach, but then again I would be open to anything. I am seeing this as the next chapter of, hopefully, a couple before the last. So, experiences are important.

Again, I really appreciate your response and would enjoy an ongoing conversation to learn more about your new home.

I have been to Bear Mountain hiking and camping as a boy, back in the 60's. I remember having a lot of fun. I am in Winsted, CT. In the Northwest Hills.

Buenos Noches!

Bruce

masterita · 2012-03-09 04:19:48

With a teaching degree you will likely have offers from schools in a few days of submitting your resume. If you want I can introduce you to other teachers and administrators at some of the better schools down here.

I have an online business, so I can work from anywhere in the world at any time, but I took a part time teaching job here (to get out of the house and meet new people). I have no professional teaching experience so my contract offers where a little lower than a professional / experienced teacher. Depending on the school you can work as a full (7:30 - 5pm on avg) or part time teacher. You get a 1 hour brake for lunch.

adam121 · 2012-05-29 21:04:14

Hi Masterita

Would you be able to send me some details of some of those schools which you mentioned? I would be interested in a job in Manizales but am finding it difficult to track down any schools who will reply to my emails!
Email is adambennett121[at]hotmail.com

Thanks
Adam

manizaleslime · 2012-08-16 04:32:22

hi Michael...its a pleasure...im leo....

raised in florida and been living there for the past 33 years. I am of colombian origin and living in manizales for the next couple of months and then soon after permanently.

I saw your post and thought it would be cool if I started to meet some people from the States down here.

I understand you moved to manizales late last year and thought perhaps we can meet sometime for a beer or two and exchange a few words. You can reach out to me anytime.

Hope all is well.

Sincerely,
Leo

masterita · 2012-08-17 04:23:05

Nice to meet you Leo. I'll send you a private message.

millerb124 · 2012-08-21 05:22:53

Hi Michael,

It has been a while since my last communication, life gets so damn busy. How is your wife and the youngster. I was wondering how your business is going. Please remember me for the last week of June through to the second week of August. I offer you free labor, in return I can bone up on my Espanol, and get a great idea of what I can anticipate upon making this move. I will need to find very inexpensive lodging for that duration. Perhaps a hostel will work, or if you know someone looking for a temporary roommate. I am not weird, or at least I hope not, and I am very respectful of personal space. Well, that is still a year away.

Anyways, I have a huge favor to ask. I am hoping that you might know of a realtor that I might begin to develop a relationship with. As you know, I am still three years away from my move, but I would like to begin to learn more about the market value of the neighborhoods of Manizales, and also look for business opportunities that may become available. I am not having a great deal of luck on the internet finding the listings in your city, so I was thinking that contacting a realtor that could send me updated listings over the next couple of years would help me to start to develop a feel for what I am getting into.

Regards to the family.

Bruce

masterita · 2012-08-21 16:47:04

Hey Bruce,

We have finally secured a house to use as a school building, giving us 3 classrooms, a computer lab, reception area, a workshop and most importantly a teachers lounge. We have you on the schedule for teaching 60 hours a week for next year, so don't worry ;0) And as for housing, that shouldn't be any issue. There is plenty of condos, apts and houses going up that will be finished by next year, which means plenty of more living spaces will be opening up. Maybe we can even find you some rooms to rent from a student. Either way it shouldn't be a problem.

I have 1 friend in realestate that really helped us in finding and securing our school and worked us out a great rental deal with the owner. When you are ready, pm me your email and exact criteria of what you are looking for and I will make the connection for you. Her name is Magda, very nice woman but she doesn't any English, so you would have to use google translate. If there is any specifics I can tell her for you.

So how are your TEFL classes and your boot camp training coming along?

Cheers,
Michael

millerb124 · 2012-08-21 19:38:05

Hi Michael,

I am happy to hear that your school is making progress. That is fantastic. Only 60 hours? No problem. : ))))))) I am really looking forward to it, because I want to work on my Spanish and begin to develop some relations with people in the city.

Real estate wise, I can live a fairly spartan existence. I need my guitar, my radio, a fridge, stove and bed. At least to start out. Should I come to love the city I will be looking for a place that I can entertain. But, if she can send me listings then I can become acquainted with neighborhoods by analyzing market value. Going on line here I am limited to one company that lists properties and there are very few at that.

I have not started the TOEFL classes yet, determining to take Spanish this semester at the college. The TOEFL classes are over $2,000 and I just don't have that kind of money right now. But, I do have three years before I will be making the transition, so it is on the list.

It was nice to hear from you. Thanks,

Bruce

masterita · 2012-08-21 20:06:19

Bruce,

If you have not checked out this website it could be another good resource for you. I use google translate, add on with my browser to view this site. It is similar to CraigsList but users are all registered. You should be able to view some listings in this area. But when it comes down to it, when you are ready, you would have to drive up and down each street in the area you like just to be sure you don't miss any. Colombia is still about 7 years behind on internet marketing.

mercadolibre.com.co

Tutatis · 2012-10-06 01:28:54

Hi!

I've been living in Manizales for some months. I'm french and my husband is colombian. I am looking for international expats' communities in Manizales. I've found quite a lot in Medellin, but for the moment nothing in Manizales.

Do you know, casually, any expats' communities in manizales ? If not, please tell me if you're interested by starting to create one.

masterita · 2012-10-06 01:44:38

There are no groups that i know of and there are about 30 or so expats living here and about 50 more who are here seasonally working. I am certainly interested in starting a group. I will send you a PM. .

masterita · 2013-01-24 21:33:17

Manizales, I am sure, has gotten larger over the years you have been absent. There are plenty of new housing going up right now, so by this time next year there should be plenty of new places available and the older apartments will drop down in price. Currently 2 people could live fairly well for 800 euros per month. By this time next year you should be able to live a little better (if the housing cost drops like I am predicting).

For your style of life, I would suggest the Cable Plaza, Palermo or Milan area (500 to 800 euro per month). These are your safer, take a stroll / cafe life style areas. San Marcel, La Florida area (500 to 100 euro per month) would be your safer country / suburbs area and only 5 to 10 minute bus ride away from the cafes. La Enea is a strata 2/3 area, very family oriented area with mom and pop shops, cafes and bars all up and down the avenue. This area would cost about about 450 euro per month (it is located between San Marcel and La Florida, right next to the airport).

There are plenty of colleges, universities and academies here, so finding a teaching position should be fairly simple and currently you would be looking at about 10.000 to 15.000 mil per hour income to start and if you have good credentials you could double that at a good school.

As for the Visa, I don't know for sure as my wife is a Colombiana and they issued me the visa right away with no problems. After my son was born here, I just needed to fill out a few forms to get my permanent residency. But I am sure it won't be a problem getting a visa. But it is usually more difficult getting a work Visa as companies assume allot of risk signing for them. However they are changing some of the requirements (so I am told) and so by the time you come over things might be different.

I hope that helps. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Good luck with your search and be sure to let me know when you make it to town.

- Michael

snasar2 · 2013-01-24 22:25:47

masterita wrote:
Manizales, I am sure, has gotten larger over the years you have been absent. There are plenty of new housing going up right now, so by this time next year there should be plenty of new places available and the older apartments will drop down in price. Currently 2 people could live fairly well for 800 euros per month. By this time next year you should be able to live a little better (if the housing cost drops like I am predicting).

For your style of life, I would suggest the Cable Plaza, Palermo or Milan area (500 to 800 euro per month). These are your safer, take a stroll / cafe life style areas. San Marcel, La Florida area (500 to 100 euro per month) would be your safer country / suburbs area and only 5 to 10 minute bus ride away from the cafes. La Enea is a strata 2/3 area, very family oriented area with mom and pop shops, cafes and bars all up and down the avenue. This area would cost about about 450 euro per month (it is located between San Marcel and La Florida, right next to the airport).

There are plenty of colleges, universities and academies here, so finding a teaching position should be fairly simple and currently you would be looking at about 10.000 to 15.000 mil per hour income to start and if you have good credentials you could double that at a good school.

As for the Visa, I don't know for sure as my wife is a Colombiana and they issued me the visa right away with no problems. After my son was born here, I just needed to fill out a few forms to get my permanent residency. But I am sure it won't be a problem getting a visa. But it is usually more difficult getting a work Visa as companies assume allot of risk signing for them. However they are changing some of the requirements (so I am told) and so by the time you come over things might be different.

I hope that helps. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Good luck with your search and be sure to let me know when you make it to town.

- Michael

Thanks Michael.
Just one more question, does it mean that an initial residence visa won´t allow a person to work there?
Cable Plaza is a neighbourhood? I didn´t understand strata 2/3 area.
Thanks again Michael.

masterita · 2013-01-25 03:18:50

Cable Plaza is the mall... I meant to say El Cable. There is a nice upscale mall, Juan Valdez, little shops, restaurants and bars in this area. To me it is an upscale metro area with a bohemian vibe.

"Strata" the word used to rate the income level of an area. 1 being the lowest and 5 the highest. So an area that is 2 / 3 is "Upper Lower" to "Lower Middle" income area. Not the safest but not dangerous. (this is just to give you a general idea of the area).

From my understanding, if you have a conjugal visa / domestic visa, this would entitle you to work any job that doesn't require a specific degree or licenses (doctor, lawyer). I don't know the requirements of obtaining one of these visas in your case. My wife is Colombian so I had no problems getting my conjugal visa.

snasar2 · 2013-01-25 14:44:30

masterita wrote:
Cable Plaza is the mall... I meant to say El Cable. There is a nice upscale mall, Juan Valdez, little shops, restaurants and bars in this area. To me it is an upscale metro area with a bohemian vibe.

"Strata" the word used to rate the income level of an area. 1 being the lowest and 5 the highest. So an area that is 2 / 3 is "Upper Lower" to "Lower Middle" income area. Not the safest but not dangerous. (this is just to give you a general idea of the area).

From my understanding, if you have a conjugal visa / domestic visa, this would entitle you to work any job that doesn't require a specific degree or licenses (doctor, lawyer). I don't know the requirements of obtaining one of these visas in your case. My wife is Colombian so I had no problems getting my conjugal visa.

ah I see. Great info. I´ll keep you posted, who knows I end up living there sooner than later. Thanks Michael.

brazil5mil · 2013-01-30 16:09:24

Hi I live in Medellin (7 years) and my wife and I want to travel to Manizales for a long week end. Is parque Nevado Open to go see the volcano (how is the ol volcano by the way. I heard about a red alert last year with lots of ashe) We want to go to the thermal pools as well. Can you be of help??? It would be greatly appreciated. My number is 310-465-4137 cell
William
Author Breal Out Of Academic Spanish

masterita wrote:
Hi Bruce,

So far my time in Manizales has been very relaxing and enjoyable. There hasn't been much need for adjustment, other then just getting used to some new cultures and traditions. I have traveled through central Colombia and must say, Manizales is one of the safest, nicest and best all around of cities here in Colombia. The people in Manizales have traditional reserved, family values and are very friendly.

Being raised near Bear Mountain State Park (just across the river from you) Manizales is just the right size city and country for me. If I miss the snow, I can take a 30 minute ride up the mountain. Or if I miss the summer heat of the mid 80's, I can take a 30 minute drive down the mountain. You can rent a nice vacation house for about $100 a night.

There are natural hot water springs to enjoy. Little parks hidden in and around the city, most with breath taking views of the mountains. We also have a small airport here, which makes traveling to major cities or even internationally much easier. Public transportation is very convenient and affordable. A bus ride will cost you about 80 cents and a taxi ride from one side of town to the other may cost you about $5 at most. The temapture averages about 73 but ranges from 65 to 85 all year round.

If you are a meat and potato guy, then you will love the restaurants here. The food a good sized steak dinner here will cost about $10. If you like vegetables, well there isn't much on the menu but the grocery stores here are well stocked and prices are about 1/2 of what you would pay back home.

As far as stretching your annual pension, you can live a relatively comfortable lifestyle (compared to the USA) here in Manizales for about $800 to $1000 per month (comparably USA upper middle class).

The few down sides are, because Manizales is a small city, there is a limited selection of clothing and foods (compared to larger cities like Bogota). The organic / wholefoods market hasn't quite reached Manizales, when it comes to labeled products. There are also some areas (like any city) that you need to be careful walking through. Just use common sense and you will be ok. This can be a pro or a con, but tanning is quick and easy. Standing at 13,500 feet you can get a nice tan in about 15 to 20 minutes in the sun (regardless of tempature). Also the seasons are reversed here. August is our winter season, so it might be a little colder and a bit more rain and wind then usual.

Another down side for me is, I am a shorts and t-shirt kind of guy. For Manizales, this is more appropriate for going to the park. If you wear shorts around town, you will stand out as a tourist. Although I have never felt I was ever at any risk or danger, this does make you a target for pick pockets, purse / cell phone snatchers and (I am warned) a possible mugging. But I walk on the main streets, stay in public areas and live in a very secure, gated community. But in my opinion, the rewards of living in Manizales, far outway any risks.

If you have any specific questions, please feel free to ask and I will answer as best I can, as I am still learning about Manizales myself.

Regards,
Michael

PS - When you make it down to Manizales, let me know. We can maybe get together and I can give you a small tour of the small city and possibly introduce to you to other expats.

masterita · 2013-02-01 18:07:30

William,

Sorry it took so long for me to write back. But the park is open and from what I am told you make it up, almost to the top (I think about 800' or so from the top). The hot springs are open too. There are plenty of backpackers back in town so be sure to book your room in advance. If you are looking for a hostel or hotel, let me know and I can make some suggestions.

Regards,
Michael

serjohal · 2013-03-26 23:51:34

Hello Everyone,
I am so glad that I found this site. We are planing to move to Manizales soon. We might be traveling Colombia in December, 2013 to checkout the different possibilities. My plan is to start a little farm and my wife (who is Colombian) has Master of Teaching (Secondary), She is looking to find a Teaching Job, If someone knows where she should go, it will be helpful. I am also looking to lease Agriculture land. I know it is a Coffee region, but how about veggies. I am originally from India and also wanted to know if there are any Asian Indian living in the area. Thank you.

masterita · 2013-04-01 17:40:40

I am not sure if you received my private message or not. Please check your inbox. I have friends with farms here just outside of Manizales that can help you. Either by renting you their farm, renting space on their farm or assisting with the purchase of a farm and or materials.

Yes their are Asians here in Manizales but not many. There are a few Asian restaurants as well. Feel free to contact me for more info on Manizales. Just send me a PM with your info and I can call you or you me.

- Michael

serjohal · 2013-04-02 22:44:42

Hello Michael
Thank you for the respond. I been little busy over the week, anyway maybe you can pass my info to your friend. my skype is serjohal and they can also email me serjohal[at]gmail.com. I will start looking into land lease in the area that you mention.

best regards,
Serj

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Moving to Manizales from New York

#1 2011-10-02 22:35:28

Moving to Manizales from New York

#2 2011-10-03 08:26:13

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#3 2012-03-04 21:28:51

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#4 2012-03-07 18:31:34

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#5 2012-03-09 01:40:05

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#6 2012-03-09 04:19:48

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#7 2012-05-29 21:04:14

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#8 2012-08-16 04:32:22

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#9 2012-08-17 04:23:05

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#10 2012-08-21 05:22:53

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#11 2012-08-21 16:47:04

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#12 2012-08-21 19:38:05

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#13 2012-08-21 20:06:19

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#14 2012-10-06 01:28:54

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#15 2012-10-06 01:44:38

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#16 2013-01-24 21:33:17

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#17 2013-01-24 22:25:47

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

masterita wrote:

#18 2013-01-25 03:18:50

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#19 2013-01-25 14:44:30

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

masterita wrote:

#20 2013-01-30 16:09:24

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

masterita wrote:

#21 2013-02-01 18:07:30

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#22 2013-03-26 23:51:34

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#23 2013-04-01 17:40:40

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

#24 2013-04-02 22:44:42

Re: Moving to Manizales from New York

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