You know how sometimes you visit a city, fall in love with it, and think, “One day, I’m going to retire in this city.”

That’s Medellín for me.

I visited Medellín for the first time in 2018 to volunteer at a local hospital right after I graduated from nursing.

As soon as I got there, I fell in love with the mountainous views from the airport on the way to the main city.

There were views everywhere. On the street. From the metro. From the mall. The views weren’t just for the rich who had access to a penthouse or skyscrapers. It was also for the struggling locals, so I always felt like there was always something to appreciate.

I remember feeling so fulfilled in this city, so I always knew I’d come back.

Six years later, I decided to come back with my husband. This time, we brought our laptops to work and live locally as much as possible.

Here are some lessons I’ve relearned.

My dream life is cheap in Colombia

I tested out my dream life while staying in Medellín.