1. Emerging markets = more opportunity
Take advantage of the many opportunities available in Latin America’s emerging markets. The Colombian economy, for example, has seen steady growth in recent years. Moreover, its star city Medellín has developed into a capital of innovation and technology in the region.
2. Learning Spanish
There are an estimated 470 million native Spanish speakers in the world. It’s the second-most commonly spoken language in the world, making it an important language skill to hone as a professional.
3. Gaining a multicultural perspective
Having experience in Latin America will prepare a young professional for a multicultural work environment. Understanding and working through cultural differences is vital life experience that is useful in any professional environment.
4. It’s cost-effective
Coming from outside the region, cost of living in Latin America is relatively low. Food and goods are generally cheap as well as housing and transportation.
5. The dancing
Whether it be cumbia, tango, bachata, samba or salsa, Latin Americans bust out the world’s best dance moves. Colombia is full of clubs and classes for interns to improve their technique and perfect their dancing skills.
Colombians are so warm and friendly it will hard not to make friends during an internship in Latin America. Living in such a welcoming culture will help you appreciate the importance of being hospitable and realize that friends are just strangers you haven’t met yet.
7. The climate
It’s hard to beat Medellín’s climate of “eternal springs”. With temperatures always ranging between the 60s and 90s, outdoors activities are always an option.
8. The festivals and traditions
From Carnival to Dia de los Muertos, Latin America is full of rich and colorful cultural traditions. One of Colombia’s most famous festivals is the flower festival held in August when rural farmers pour into town with their gorgeous flower displays.
Photo 1. based on Medellin Siglo 21 by Kevin Dooley, CC-by-2.0
Photo 2. based on Libros en Español by Enokson, CC-by-2.0
Photo 3. based on Diversity Mask by George A. Spiva Center for the Arts, CC-by-2.0
Photo 4. based on Pink Piggy Bank On Top Of A Pile Of One Dollar Bills by Ken Teegardin, CC-by-2.0
Photo 5. based on Barranquilla Carnaval Parade 2014 040 by Carnaval.com Studios, CC-by-2.0
Photo 6. based on NP 2DU colombia 4_lo by CIAT, CC-by-2.0
Photo 7. based on LA BACHUÉ – MEDELLÍN 2014 by Iván Erre Jota, CC-by-2.0
Photo 8. based on Feria de Las Flores. Medellin 15 by David Orchard, CC-by-2.0