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Ryan Goes Abroad

Why hello there. Here, you will find some writings about learning foreign languages, traveling to different countries, and finding your place in a big, big world. Learn More...

Fluency vs. Proficiency (And Why It Matters)

Fluency vs. Proficiency (And Why It Matters)

If you read this blog, you probably know I have been learning Spanish. It has been my first attempt to learn a foreign language in a functional, life-enhancing way, which would enable me to play, live, and do business comfortably in Latin America (among other things). I’ve discovered some things that work, and some things [...]



Dear Medellin…

Dear Medellin…

We first met awhile ago, and you’ve stayed on my mind ever since. We’ve walked together, talked together, laughed together. We’ve gone out. We’ve shared intimate moments. The other night I was with you, and I looked into your eyes and told myself how much I wanted you. The truth that is I am tired [...]



How Long Does It Take To Decide If You Would Live In A Place?

How Long Does It Take To Decide If You Would Live In A Place?

Along the lines of what I’ve written recently, I want to think about an open question: How long does it take for you to decide whether you could see yourself living in a city? I see this as a central question for myself through 2012 and beyond. As I’ve said before, I am looking for [...]



The Clasico Game: Independiente Medellin vs Atlético Nacional

The Clasico Game: Independiente Medellin vs Atlético Nacional

One of my Colombian buddies told me that I should go to the Clasico game at least once while I was in Medellin. The match pits Deportivo Independiente Medellin versus Atlético Nacional, and intra-city matchup with the two most well-known soccer team. To say it’s a fierce rivalry is an understatement. After each game, it [...]



To See The World Or To Find Something

To See The World Or To Find Something

The other day I was prowling around the interwebs for some info on a certain city I am interested in visiting. Unfortunately, all I really could find in my short search was a bunch of pages written by travelers who blab on about how their flight and hotel were, and how they had 2 or [...]



Life After 6 Months In Medellin

Life After 6 Months In Medellin

The other day I had to go in to get my tourist visa renewed in Medellin. They had given me 90 days upon entry, which means I’ve spent 3 months this year in Medellin (already!). Combined with last year’s 3 months, that means I have lived here for 6 months in total over the course [...]