Leo, let's discuss accommodation options and quality in Colombia and Tunisia. Choosing a home in two vastly different continents presents unique challenges.
Mira, the crucial question is where we'll unpack and pretend to be locals. In Colombia, are we talking sprawling haciendas or more modest dwellings? I'm interested in realistic expectations regarding comfort and safety.
Not everyone lives in a hacienda, Leo! Colombia offers diverse housing. In cities like Medellin and Bogota, modern, sleek apartments exist alongside traditional houses with courtyards, offering a choice between "city chic" and "historical charm."
Tunisia, then? My mental image includes riads in the medina, possibly with older plumbing. Are beachside villas also an option?
Tunisia offers a mix. Modern apartments exist in Tunis, alongside traditional medina houses and coastal resorts and villas. It's a choice between "modern metropolis" and "exotic escape."
Quality-wise, are we talking luxury or rustic charm? In Colombia, are newer apartments earthquake-resistant? Do Tunisian riads come with resident genies fixing leaky faucets?
Genies are extra, Leo! Newer Colombian apartments in upscale areas are well-built, but older places may be "charmingly worn." They're likely built to withstand salsa parties.
"Charmingly worn" is a polite euphemism! In Tunisia, do new builds meet European standards? Do riads have reliable air conditioning? Comfort is key for a sophisticated international spy (even a sweating one).
Newer Tunisian apartments, particularly in tourist areas, are often modern and well-maintained. Older medina properties are less predictable. Air conditioning is essential in summer, but its power varies. Riads offer historical charm but may lack modern conveniences. It's about priorities.
Prioritizing "Instagrammable courtyards" over "reliable hot water" is a tough choice! What about rental costs? Will we need to sell a kidney?
Kidney selling isn't necessary! Both countries are generally more affordable than Western Europe or North America. Rent in major Colombian cities has increased, but good deals exist outside central areas.
And Tunisia? "Bargain basement" or "reasonably priced"? Is Tunis as expensive as Cartagena?
Tunisia is quite affordable, especially compared to European countries. Tunis is pricier than other areas, but still reasonable. Coastal towns and smaller cities offer excellent deals. It's "surprisingly reasonable."
Housing standards: are we talking up to international code, or exposed wiring and questionable plumbing?
"Cardboard and good intentions" is an exaggeration! Newer buildings in both countries meet good standards. Older buildings might have quirks – wiring or plumbing might not be perfect, but not necessarily unsafe.
"Plumbing with personality"! Should our podcast be called "Charming Quirks and Questionable Plumbing"? Seriously, can expats find places meeting Western standards, or do we need toolkits and DIY skills?
Toolkits are optional, DIY spirit helpful. Expats can find accommodation meeting Western standards in major cities. Be discerning, ask questions, and don't expect perfection. Livability is assured, with added "character."
"Character" is code for "standup material"! Both countries offer a mix, from modern to traditional, and budget-friendly options. Manage expectations, be flexible, and pack a sense of humor.
Exactly! Pack humor, a small toolkit, and an open mind. Even quirky plumbing provides a story. Shall we move on to the next topic?