Bogota, Colombia
Mar 29th 2010 | 4:36 am
#31
Just Joined
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 5
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Are you in Colombia currently? Are you already on a working visa?
I work in a professional services firm so my line of work is pretty different but what I did was transfer from the UK to the Colombian office internally.
If you're in the UK and working for a firm, I'd suggest you try for a transfer. You'll have a lot more credibility with the Colombian firm rather than sending blind emails.
Most jobs aren't advertised so it's all about the networking.
The other thing is if you're hired locally (i.e. whilst in Medellin) chances are you'll be offered a local salary which isn't the best thing in the world. If you manage a transfer there may be the possiblity of a better salary. I'm on a local contract, but I have a 20% increase on my salary as I'm a Chartered Accountant and to have a qualification over here for accountancy is pretty rare.
I don't know much about Engineering but I'm told it's one of the more popular careers and hence salaries are pretty low (compared to the UK).
From an administration point of view, if this is your first working visa in Colombia, I understand you'll need to leave the country, apply abroad for the visa then reenter. If you're already in Colombia, you can fly to any of the neighbours and do it there.
But this is all just my experience after being here for 7 months.
Send me an email or private message if you want to know more.
I work in a professional services firm so my line of work is pretty different but what I did was transfer from the UK to the Colombian office internally.
If you're in the UK and working for a firm, I'd suggest you try for a transfer. You'll have a lot more credibility with the Colombian firm rather than sending blind emails.
Most jobs aren't advertised so it's all about the networking.
The other thing is if you're hired locally (i.e. whilst in Medellin) chances are you'll be offered a local salary which isn't the best thing in the world. If you manage a transfer there may be the possiblity of a better salary. I'm on a local contract, but I have a 20% increase on my salary as I'm a Chartered Accountant and to have a qualification over here for accountancy is pretty rare.
I don't know much about Engineering but I'm told it's one of the more popular careers and hence salaries are pretty low (compared to the UK).
From an administration point of view, if this is your first working visa in Colombia, I understand you'll need to leave the country, apply abroad for the visa then reenter. If you're already in Colombia, you can fly to any of the neighbours and do it there.
But this is all just my experience after being here for 7 months.
Send me an email or private message if you want to know more.
Last edited by p83092; Mar 29th 2010 at 4:38 am.
Mar 29th 2010 | 4:53 am
#32
Just Joined
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 6
From: UK
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Are you in Colombia currently? Are you already on a working visa?
I work in a professional services firm so my line of work is pretty different but what I did was transfer from the UK to the Colombian office internally.
If you're in the UK and working for a firm, I'd suggest you try for a transfer. You'll have a lot more credibility with the Colombian firm rather than sending blind emails.
Most jobs aren't advertised so it's all about the networking.
The other thing is if you're hired locally (i.e. whilst in Medellin) chances are you'll be offered a local salary which isn't the best thing in the world. If you manage a transfer there may be the possiblity of a better salary. I'm on a local contract, but I have a 20% increase on my salary as I'm a Chartered Accountant and to have a qualification over here for accountancy is pretty rare.
I don't know much about Engineering but I'm told it's one of the more popular careers and hence salaries are pretty low (compared to the UK).
From an administration point of view, if this is your first working visa in Colombia, I understand you'll need to leave the country, apply abroad for the visa then reenter. If you're already in Colombia, you can fly to any of the neighbours and do it there.
But this is all just my experience after being here for 7 months.
Send me an email or private message if you want to know more.
I work in a professional services firm so my line of work is pretty different but what I did was transfer from the UK to the Colombian office internally.
If you're in the UK and working for a firm, I'd suggest you try for a transfer. You'll have a lot more credibility with the Colombian firm rather than sending blind emails.
Most jobs aren't advertised so it's all about the networking.
The other thing is if you're hired locally (i.e. whilst in Medellin) chances are you'll be offered a local salary which isn't the best thing in the world. If you manage a transfer there may be the possiblity of a better salary. I'm on a local contract, but I have a 20% increase on my salary as I'm a Chartered Accountant and to have a qualification over here for accountancy is pretty rare.
I don't know much about Engineering but I'm told it's one of the more popular careers and hence salaries are pretty low (compared to the UK).
From an administration point of view, if this is your first working visa in Colombia, I understand you'll need to leave the country, apply abroad for the visa then reenter. If you're already in Colombia, you can fly to any of the neighbours and do it there.
But this is all just my experience after being here for 7 months.
Send me an email or private message if you want to know more.
PM'd you
Aug 21st 2010 | 5:30 am
#33
Just Joined
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1
From: Bogota and Mompos
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hey all, been here a few years but not moved in expat circles really. Anyone keen on a meet up? Originally from London.
Sep 3rd 2010 | 3:55 am
#34
Just Joined
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 1
From: Poole, Dorset when in the UK
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hi All, I am travelling to Bogota in October for the month, working as Wealth Manager for a company, never been to South America before and read all the reports which seem to range from scary to it's OK really !!!
Would like to make some acquaintances before I arrive to meet up and socialise if anyone is around would be great if you would get in touch to show a new Guy around ??
Would like to make some acquaintances before I arrive to meet up and socialise if anyone is around would be great if you would get in touch to show a new Guy around ??
Sep 27th 2010 | 5:17 am
#35
Just Joined
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8
From: Bogotá, Colombia
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hi there. There is nothing that you should find scary re. living here, there is plenty to get used to but that is just part of the fun. There is some practical info as well as Bogota-based wafflings on my site afowen.com, let me know if you have any specific questions, happy to show you about toon when you get here. Alex
Oct 2nd 2010 | 10:09 am
#36
Just Joined
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 1
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hey Guys!
I'm currently studying an Economics and English joint Degree at University in Scotland, and will be graduating next year. I have never visited Columbia before, however i have heard fantastic things about Bogota, and from my own research i love the look of the life over there. I'd love to get away from the UK when i graduate, so hopefully Bogota is a possibility.
To anyone with knowledge about Columbia and Bogota in general, what are the prospects for someone like myself with an English, and Economics degrees? Are there many international companies that would hire UK based graduates?
From what i have read, the average living costs in Bogota are far below the likes of the UK and USA. I've been looking at property in the Bogota area, and the amount of property you get for your money is great.
What kind of salary would you reckon someone with my qualifications could hope to gain in Bogota? I'd take up any sort of business / sales / management position, within a company. Is there any easy scope for a UK expat for that kind of employment? Again from what i have read, a $30,000 wage would get you by very well in Bogota, so i like the prospects from the sound of that (Considering economists in the UK tend to have base wages ranging from $40,000+)
Bogota also appeals to me...because there is a special someone now living there, and i'd love to be able to see them again
Hope to hear from you soon guys, thanks for advice!
I'm currently studying an Economics and English joint Degree at University in Scotland, and will be graduating next year. I have never visited Columbia before, however i have heard fantastic things about Bogota, and from my own research i love the look of the life over there. I'd love to get away from the UK when i graduate, so hopefully Bogota is a possibility.
To anyone with knowledge about Columbia and Bogota in general, what are the prospects for someone like myself with an English, and Economics degrees? Are there many international companies that would hire UK based graduates?
From what i have read, the average living costs in Bogota are far below the likes of the UK and USA. I've been looking at property in the Bogota area, and the amount of property you get for your money is great.
What kind of salary would you reckon someone with my qualifications could hope to gain in Bogota? I'd take up any sort of business / sales / management position, within a company. Is there any easy scope for a UK expat for that kind of employment? Again from what i have read, a $30,000 wage would get you by very well in Bogota, so i like the prospects from the sound of that (Considering economists in the UK tend to have base wages ranging from $40,000+)
Bogota also appeals to me...because there is a special someone now living there, and i'd love to be able to see them again
Hope to hear from you soon guys, thanks for advice!
Dec 1st 2010 | 11:40 am
#37
Just Joined
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 15
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hello all,
I just arrived in Bogota a couple of days ago on a 2 month extended vacation...my wife is Colombian, and we've a little baby, so here for the family thing, and also taking the opportunity to experience a Colombian Christmas, which I've heard lots about. It's only Dec 1st, and already I've seen more Xmas lights and trees in people's windows than I've ever seen in London, so first impressions are good!
One of the reasons why I've taken a couple of months out, is to scope out the job market, to better understand what kind of job I could get out here, as my wife is keen to move back here, and I'm definitely keen to give it a go if it looks promising enough.
Back in London, I work in business development/marketing in the technology sector (mobile/internet), and so I would ideally like to stay in this sector if possible...as I'm hoping the experience I have in a more developed mobile market like the UK will be of interest to some companies here.
Therefore, I would be really grateful if someone could point me in the direction of recruitment agents/headhunters that deal with management level roles ideally in multinational companies, and are of course happy dealing with expats....if any!
To note, my Spanish is currently at a basic level...which I know is a big limitation for most roles, however I know that I will become fluent enough after a stay here of 6 months or so.
Any tips or advice would be most appreciated!
Cheers,
Pramesh
I just arrived in Bogota a couple of days ago on a 2 month extended vacation...my wife is Colombian, and we've a little baby, so here for the family thing, and also taking the opportunity to experience a Colombian Christmas, which I've heard lots about. It's only Dec 1st, and already I've seen more Xmas lights and trees in people's windows than I've ever seen in London, so first impressions are good!
One of the reasons why I've taken a couple of months out, is to scope out the job market, to better understand what kind of job I could get out here, as my wife is keen to move back here, and I'm definitely keen to give it a go if it looks promising enough.
Back in London, I work in business development/marketing in the technology sector (mobile/internet), and so I would ideally like to stay in this sector if possible...as I'm hoping the experience I have in a more developed mobile market like the UK will be of interest to some companies here.
Therefore, I would be really grateful if someone could point me in the direction of recruitment agents/headhunters that deal with management level roles ideally in multinational companies, and are of course happy dealing with expats....if any!
To note, my Spanish is currently at a basic level...which I know is a big limitation for most roles, however I know that I will become fluent enough after a stay here of 6 months or so.
Any tips or advice would be most appreciated!
Cheers,
Pramesh
Dec 1st 2010 | 5:31 pm
#38
Just Joined
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8
From: Bogotá, Colombia
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Pramesh, I can ask about for you, as a mobile user I can tell you that there is lots that could be done here. uffmovil.com.co is a new operator that uses the Tigo network and seems to have gone for a strategy of being plain, simple and transparent, which is far from the norm here, I have no links with them but for cold calling that is where I would start. I'm on 317 616 1314 if you want to chat...
Dec 1st 2010 | 5:35 pm
#39
Just Joined
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8
From: Bogotá, Colombia
Re: Bogota, Colombia
I am posting this so as to be able to read a private message that I've been sent. Admin, it would make sense to restrict the ability to send messages to those who have posted at least three posts rather than the ability to read messages. I'm only writing this otherwise useless post as I feel obliged to try to access the message I've been sent. Cheers, Alex
Feb 6th 2011 | 12:10 pm
#40
Just Joined
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hi all,
well i finally decided to come to live here after my wife twisted my are for long enough. i have 2 kids and moved here also for the family thing. loving the help we get as my kids are under 3 and a half and seriously hard work. So far kinda enjoying it but only 2 weeks in so early days.
Im a graphic ´packaging´ designer by trade and been in the business in the UK for the last 18 years or so. Got my lovely new imac to keep me happy and doing a little freelance work as my extended family is well connected. Seems to be even more important here than anywhere i know. Also did an HTML course in the UK before i came here and got one of those TEFL certificates to potentially teach english. Want to stay in the design business so if anyone can help be much appriciated.
I currently have no friends (bring out the violins) but would love to meet up with some brits. Missing the famous wit. Colombians just dont get it. They think Chavo del 8 is funny. Cant see it.
well thanks enought from me. get in touch if you fancy meeting up for a coffee, beer or arepa.
well i finally decided to come to live here after my wife twisted my are for long enough. i have 2 kids and moved here also for the family thing. loving the help we get as my kids are under 3 and a half and seriously hard work. So far kinda enjoying it but only 2 weeks in so early days.
Im a graphic ´packaging´ designer by trade and been in the business in the UK for the last 18 years or so. Got my lovely new imac to keep me happy and doing a little freelance work as my extended family is well connected. Seems to be even more important here than anywhere i know. Also did an HTML course in the UK before i came here and got one of those TEFL certificates to potentially teach english. Want to stay in the design business so if anyone can help be much appriciated.
I currently have no friends (bring out the violins) but would love to meet up with some brits. Missing the famous wit. Colombians just dont get it. They think Chavo del 8 is funny. Cant see it.
well thanks enought from me. get in touch if you fancy meeting up for a coffee, beer or arepa.
Feb 7th 2011 | 5:48 am
#41
Just Joined
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8
From: Bogotá, Colombia
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hi Bontemps.
I have access to the best beer in Colombia (my friend has a brewery), we have an event on Wednesdays, lovingly called 'Piss Up in a Brewery', why not come along and meet some people...
I'm on 317 616 1314.
Cheers,
Alex
I have access to the best beer in Colombia (my friend has a brewery), we have an event on Wednesdays, lovingly called 'Piss Up in a Brewery', why not come along and meet some people...
I'm on 317 616 1314.
Cheers,
Alex
Feb 20th 2011 | 7:00 pm
#42
Just Joined
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 2
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hello
I am Daniel From the UK. I will be in Bogota on Feb 23 to 25th, and again from March 10th. If anyone is around and would like to meet up for a drink, please mail me.
Thank
I am Daniel From the UK. I will be in Bogota on Feb 23 to 25th, and again from March 10th. If anyone is around and would like to meet up for a drink, please mail me.
Thank
Feb 22nd 2011 | 3:43 am
#43
Just Joined
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Piss Up In A Brewery sounds good... where is it?
I've just moved here from London and I'm working as a writer for a travel company. I also have a friend coming in March. We'd be interested in meeting up with anyone, always good to meet new people in a new city. We're both 25, I'm a male, she's a female, both from London.
A couple of slightly unrelated questions:
1) where's a decent place to watch football? Big European matches this week and Man U Chelsea next week... It'd be nice to go somewhere with a bit of atmosphere, but just a screen and the sound would suffice.
2) I'm currently living on someone's couch. If anyone has any advice on accommodation, or indeed 2 spare rooms, that would be supeerrrrrb.
I've just moved here from London and I'm working as a writer for a travel company. I also have a friend coming in March. We'd be interested in meeting up with anyone, always good to meet new people in a new city. We're both 25, I'm a male, she's a female, both from London.
A couple of slightly unrelated questions:
1) where's a decent place to watch football? Big European matches this week and Man U Chelsea next week... It'd be nice to go somewhere with a bit of atmosphere, but just a screen and the sound would suffice.
2) I'm currently living on someone's couch. If anyone has any advice on accommodation, or indeed 2 spare rooms, that would be supeerrrrrb.
Feb 28th 2011 | 2:46 pm
#44
Just Joined
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 1
From: Bogota, Colombia
Re: Bogota, Colombia
Hey,
I moved here due to work in November, I'm a petroleum geologist.
Let me know if you want to meet for a drink, am out most weekends in zona t or parque 93. Me and my friends are around the same age as you and your friend so can introduce you to them.
Regarding your questions, maybe try the irish pub in zona t for the football, they have big tvs and usually show most football matches.
Not too sure about how you can sort out an apartment as my company sorted all of it out for me but i'd suggest living in chico.
Hope this helps
Let me know if you want anymore advice
I moved here due to work in November, I'm a petroleum geologist.
Let me know if you want to meet for a drink, am out most weekends in zona t or parque 93. Me and my friends are around the same age as you and your friend so can introduce you to them.
Regarding your questions, maybe try the irish pub in zona t for the football, they have big tvs and usually show most football matches.
Not too sure about how you can sort out an apartment as my company sorted all of it out for me but i'd suggest living in chico.
Hope this helps
Let me know if you want anymore advice
Mar 13th 2011 | 10:16 am
#45
Just Joined
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 1
Re: Bogota, Colombia
I am inbound to Bogota from Cambridge in late April... I would like the opportunity to get together sometime, to meet some people and learn the ropes... first time in Colombia too.
Cheers,
Ray
