I met Chef Richard Cook a few years ago when he hosted a wonderful event with food, wine, and music, Havana Meets Atlanta. At the time, we had a great conversation about the African Diaspora and the customs that we think are uniquely American are actually West African. One example is the “Second Line” parade/strut/dance is practiced in the exact same way in Medellín, Colombia as it is done on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The US State Department estimates that between 30,000 - 60,000 Americans have made Colombia their home. Colombia is experiencing large waves of immigration from other Latin American countries, Europe, East Asia, and North America over the past five years. Due to improvements in quality of life, security, and economic opportunities.
Chef Richard Cook is one of those Americans. I asked how and why he decided to move to South America and how Medellín became his home. He spoke of his fiancé passing and he started traveling to Central and South America. He mentions visits to Panama and the Dominican Republic. In Ecuador, at a festival, he experienced a moment where he felt completely at home. He made the decision that he wanted more. While he thought Panama was great he shares it was one of the hottest places he’s ever been. He was nervous about the infrastructure in the Dominican Republic but he remembered Colombia and returned to Medellín.
I asked Cook why Medellín as opposed to Cartagena. He spoke about Cartegena being a bustling city that reminded him of New York and he didn’t want that environment for his life as he embraced retirement.
He speaks about the people in Medellín and the community that has welcomed him. Cook volunteers at schools working with young people. Additionally, he shares that he has lost over twenty pounds and no longer needs diabetes, hypertension, or cholesterol medication. He walks a few miles every day visiting museums and cultural sites. He mentions the fresher food with fewer preservatives available in Colombia.
Cook explained that he doesn’t worry about healthcare because Colombia is ranked 22nd in Healthcare while the USA is ranked 38th. He received dental work that included 4 implants and the total was $2200. He also shares that you can request a doctor come to your home and they will for about $50.
For more information on Chef Richard Cook and the Global Chef Society. He is bringing the Soul Symphony back to Atlanta before the end of the year. His CONVO- Food, Music, and Wine event will be held in Medellin in February 2026.