Columbia
Essential Apps for Your Life Abroad in Colombia: A Black Expat Guide
Why Apps Matter for Black Expats in Colombia
Moving abroad is exciting — but navigating a new country like Colombia comes with challenges. From ordering groceries to catching a safe ride home, apps make daily life smoother, safer, and more convenient.
As a Black expat, these apps not only help you adapt quickly but also give you peace of mind in a new culture, with many offering English options, secure payment systems, and features that go beyond what you might be used to in the U.S.
Ride-Hailing & Transportation Apps
- DiDi
- What it is: Similar to Uber/Lyft in the U.S.
- Why use it: Often cheaper than Uber with regular promo codes.
- Extra feature: DiDi has cash payment options (unlike Lyft in the U.S.), which is useful in a cash-heavy country like Colombia.
- Uber (Limited Service)
- What it is: Works differently than in the U.S.
- Why use it: Still available in Colombia, but officially classified as “private contracts,” meaning the driver may ask you to sit in the front seat to avoid attention.
- Pro Tip: Always confirm with the driver via chat before getting in.
- InDrive
- What it is: A negotiation-based rideshare app.
- Why use it: You set your price before the ride and drivers can accept or counter.
- Extra feature: More flexibility, but less safety screening than Uber/DiDi — best for short trips in busy areas.
- Moovit / TransMi App
- What it is: Transit apps for Bogotá’s TransMilenio and Medellín’s Metro.
- Why use it: Gives real-time schedules, routes, and trip planning.
- Extra feature: More accurate for local public transit than Google Maps.
Food & Grocery Delivery Apps
- Rappi
- What it is: Colombia’s #1 delivery app, think UberEats + Instacart + Postmates combined.
- Why use it:
- Food delivery from restaurants.
- Grocery delivery from supermarkets.
- Bill payments, pharmacy runs, even cash delivery to your door.
Extra feature: With RappiPrime, you get free deliveries and access to international brands like Starbucks, Burger King, and Subway.
- Domicilios.com
- What it is: Similar to DoorDash in the U.S.
- Why use it: Easy-to-use food delivery focused mostly on restaurants.
- Extra feature: Simpler interface, but less variety than Rappi.
Banking & Payments Apps
- Nequi
- What it is: Colombia’s free digital bank app, similar to CashApp.
- Why use it:
- Free transfers between Nequi users.
- Accepted at many stores and online checkouts.
- No physical bank branch required.
Extra feature: Can be used to pay bills, recharge phone credit, and withdraw cash at ATMs with just a code.
- Daviplata
What it is: Another popular mobile wallet tied to Davivienda Bank.
Why use it: Great for receiving money from employers, landlords, or friends who may not use Nequi.
Extra feature: Some government payments and benefits are disbursed through Daviplata.
- Wise (formerly TransferWise)
What it is: International money transfer app.
Why use it: Best way for expats to move money between U.S. accounts and Colombia.
Extra feature: Transparent mid-market exchange rates, often cheaper than Western Union.
Shopping & Marketplace Apps
- Mercado Libre
- What it is: Latin America’s Amazon + eBay.
- Why use it: Order everything from electronics to clothes with delivery to your home.
- Extra feature: Sellers often offer “Pago Contra Entrega” (cash on delivery), something rarely seen in the U.S.
- Exito App
- What it is: Superstore chain app (like Walmart in the U.S.).
- Why use it: Order groceries, clothes, and household items.
- Extra feature: Sometimes offers in-app discounts not available in-store.
Communication & Community Apps
- What it is: The #1 communication tool in Colombia.
- Why use it: Everyone from your landlord to your doctor will use WhatsApp.
- Extra feature: Businesses often confirm appointments, deliveries, and even send invoices directly via WhatsApp.
- Meetup & Internations
- What it is: Social networking for expats.
- Why use it: Great for connecting with other foreigners and locals in major cities.
- Extra feature: Black expats in particular can find groups tailored to diaspora networking, professional connections, and cultural exchange.
Pro Tips for Black Expats in Colombia
Use Rappi & Nequi together – You can order almost anything and pay digitally without needing a Colombian credit card. Keep multiple rideshare apps – Sometimes Uber works better in Medellín, while DiDi is cheaper in Bogotá. Always confirm delivery by WhatsApp – Colombians prefer direct communication, so expect a message or call before arrival. Learn basic Spanish app terms – “Pedido” (order), “pago en efectivo” (cash payment), “entrega” (delivery).
Final Thoughts
Living in Colombia as a Black expat is easier when you have the right digital tools at your fingertips. Whether you’re catching a ride, paying a bill, or ordering dinner, these apps bridge the gap between U.S. convenience and Colombian culture.
By downloading these apps and learning their extra features, you’ll save money, stay safer, and integrate faster into Colombian life.
Mexico
Essential Apps for Black Expats Living in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Moving to Playa del Carmen as a U.S. citizen—and especially as a Black expat—can feel exciting, but navigating life abroad requires the right digital tools. From ordering groceries to catching a ride, essential apps can transform your experience and help you live more seamlessly in Mexico.
This guide highlights the must-have apps for Playa del Carmen, explains what they do, how they compare to U.S. equivalents, and the unique features that make them invaluable for expats.
- Ride-Sharing & Transportation Apps
Uber (Yes, but with limitations)
- What it does: Uber operates in Playa del Carmen, but its presence is limited due to conflicts with local taxi unions.
- Compared to the U.S.: Works similarly to the U.S. app but may have fewer drivers. You’ll often need to meet drivers on side streets rather than directly in front of taxi stands.
- Tip for Black expats: Always have a backup app like Didi or a trusted taxi number.
Didi
- What it does: China’s version of Uber, and a strong alternative in Playa.
- Extra feature vs. U.S. Uber: Often cheaper and offers cash payment options (very useful in Mexico where not everyone uses cards).
- Why it’s great for expats: More reliable in areas where Uber faces pushback.
ADO Bus App
- What it does: Allows you to book bus tickets between Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Tulum, and beyond.
- Extra feature vs. U.S. equivalents: Reliable long-distance travel at a fraction of U.S. Greyhound prices.
- Why it’s essential: Safe, clean, and affordable—perfect for exploring the Riviera Maya or making airport transfers.
- Food Delivery Apps
Rappi
- What it does: Latin America’s super-app. It delivers food, groceries, pharmacy items, and even cash.
- Compared to U.S. equivalents: Think Uber Eats + Instacart + Postmates all in one.
- Extra feature: You can even hire someone through Rappi to stand in line or run errands for you.
- Pro tip for expats: Great for days when language barriers make phone ordering stressful.
Uber Eats
- What it does: Available in Playa with a wide selection of restaurants.
- Difference from the U.S.: Sometimes slower delivery times, but cheaper overall fees.
- Why it’s helpful: Offers familiar U.S. chains (like McDonald’s or Starbucks) alongside local Mexican spots.
Didi Food
- What it does: A growing competitor to Uber Eats and Rappi.
- Unique perk: Often has better promo codes and lower delivery costs.
- Why expats love it: Perfect for budget-conscious Black expats adjusting to the cost of living abroad.
- 🛒 Grocery & Shopping Apps
Walmart Mexico App
- What it does: Lets you shop groceries online and schedule delivery.
- Compared to U.S.: Similar functionality, but you may need to confirm substitutions in Spanish.
- Why it’s a lifesaver: Playa has multiple Walmart locations, so delivery is quick and reliable.
Chedraui & Soriana Apps
- What they do: Local Mexican supermarket chains with their own apps for grocery delivery.
- Why expats should use them: Often have better local produce selections than Walmart.
Amazon Mexico (Amazon.mx)
- What it does: Just like Amazon U.S., but local.
- Unique twist: Delivery times may be slower, and some items may not ship to Playa.
- Pro tip: Set up a local Amazon Mexico account tied to a Mexican address to avoid higher international shipping fees.
- Banking & Finance Apps
Wise (formerly TransferWise)
- What it does: Lets you send money from U.S. accounts to Mexican banks at low fees and great exchange rates.
- Why expats love it: Transparent rates and faster transfers than traditional banks.
Remitly
- What it does: Another reliable money transfer app with cash pickup options at OXXO (local convenience stores).
- Extra feature: Super useful for expats who don’t have Mexican bank accounts yet.
BBVA Bancomer App
- What it does: Major Mexican bank app with digital banking features.
- Pro tip: BBVA is foreigner-friendly and easier for U.S. expats to open accounts with.
Communication & Lifestyle Apps
- What it does: Mexico’s #1 communication tool for messaging, calls, and even business transactions.
- Compared to U.S.: While many Americans use iMessage, in Mexico almost everyone—businesses, landlords, doctors—uses WhatsApp.
- Why expats must have it: It’s the primary way to communicate and schedule services in Playa.
- Google Translate
What it does: Helps bridge the language barrier in real-time.
Pro tip: Download Spanish for offline use so you’re covered even without Wi-Fi.
Airbnb / Booking.com
Why essential: Many Black expats in Playa start with short-term rentals before transitioning into long-term leases.
Pro Tips for Black Expats in Playa del Carmen
Stay Connected: Get a Telcel or AT&T Mexico SIM card for reliable mobile data. Most apps require steady internet access.
Cash is Still King: Even with apps, many local businesses prefer cash. Use ATMs at major banks (avoid random street ATMs).
Cultural Note: Delivery and ride-share drivers often expect small cash tips—consider it part of building local community trust.
Final Word: Living Seamlessly in Playa del Carmen
With the right apps, your transition into expat life in Playa del Carmen becomes much smoother. From Rappi for delivery to Wise for money transfers, and WhatsApp for communication, these digital tools will help you navigate daily life with confidence.
As a Black expat, embracing these apps means not only making your life easier but also empowering yourself to explore Playa del Carmen with comfort, safety, and cultural awareness.
South Africa
Essential Apps for Your Life Abroad in Cape Town, South Africa
Black Expat Life Abroad Guide to Navigating Cape Town with Ease
Moving to Cape Town is an exciting adventure—between the beautiful Table Mountain views, vibrant culture, and deep Afro-diaspora connections, this city has everything. But to truly thrive as a Black expat in South Africa, you’ll want the right digital tools at your fingertips. Below is a guide to the essential apps for daily life in Cape Town, covering everything from ride-sharing to grocery delivery to banking.
Ride-Sharing & Transportation Apps
Uber
- Just like in the U.S., Uber is widely available in Cape Town, making it one of the most reliable ways to get around.
- Extra feature: In South Africa, you can also pay with cash—a helpful option if you’re new and don’t have a local bank card yet.
Bolt (formerly Taxify)
A popular Uber alternative, often cheaper and faster during peak times.
- Extra feature: Bolt Food also delivers meals, so you get both transport and delivery in one app.
Go Metro
- A transport planning app that helps you navigate buses, trains, and minibus taxis.
- Great for expats trying to save money or explore beyond Uber.
Food & Grocery Delivery Apps
Mr D Food
- South Africa’s top food delivery app, similar to DoorDash in the U.S.
- Extra feature: Often has local promotions from South African restaurants and fast-food chains not available back home.
Uber Eats
- Available in Cape Town, works the same as in the States.
- Extra feature: You can pay in cash, which makes it easier for newcomers without a South African card.
Banking & Finance Apps
SnapScan
- Mobile payments app—think Venmo meets Apple Pay. Scan a QR code and pay instantly at cafes, taxis, and even street vendors.
Checkers Sixty60
- Grocery delivery app from Checkers supermarket—delivers in as little as 60 minutes.
- Extra feature: You’ll find local brands and South African wines at prices much cheaper than in U.S. stores.
Pick n Pay ASAP!
- Another major supermarket delivery app, similar to Instacart in the U.S.
- Great for expats who want to shop from a broader selection.
- Extra feature: Accepted almost everywhere in Cape Town—even small mom-and-pop shops.
Zapper
- Another QR-code payment app with loyalty rewards built in.
- TymeBank & Capitec Bank Apps
- Local banks with easy-to-use apps, perfect for expats setting up accounts without heavy paperwork.
- Lifestyle & Convenience Apps
Takealot
- South Africa’s version of Amazon. You can order electronics, household goods, and even imported U.S. items.
Superbalist
- Fashion and lifestyle app—great for expats looking for clothes and accessories in local styles.
D6 Connect (for parents)
- If you’re relocating with kids, many schools in Cape Town use this app for updates, schedules, and communication.
Health & Safety Apps
Discovery Health App
- If you enroll with Discovery (one of South Africa’s leading health insurers), the app helps you track medical aid, find doctors, and even earn rewards for healthy living.
Namola
- South Africa’s version of a personal safety app—similar to Noonlight in the U.S.
- With one tap, you can request police, ambulance, or roadside assistance. Essential for peace of mind.
Expat & Community Connection Apps
Meetup
- Great for finding Black expat groups, digital nomads, and community events in Cape Town.
Facebook Groups
- “Black Expats in Cape Town” and “Expats in South Africa” are active spaces for advice and networking.
Airbnb Experiences
- In addition to housing, check for Afro-Cape Town cultural tours, cooking classes, and history walks.
Final Tips for Black Expats in Cape Town
Download both Uber & Bolt: Compare prices and availability before each ride.
Leverage QR payments: South Africa is ahead of the U.S. in mobile payments—SnapScan and Zapper make daily life much smoother.
Grocery delivery saves time: Sixty60 and Pick n Pay ASAP! are lifesavers for busy expats adjusting to a new rhythm.
Stay connected to community: Use Meetup and Facebook groups to find your tribe and feel more at home.
Key Takeaway
With the right essential apps in Cape Town, your expat life becomes easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re catching a ride to the V&A Waterfront, ordering Cape Malay cuisine, or paying for groceries at a local shop, these apps keep you connected and in control.
For Black expats building a life abroad, embracing these tools ensures you can focus less on logistics—and more on living your best life in South Africa.
Panama
Essential Apps for Your Life Abroad in Panama City, Panama
Black Expat Life Abroad Guide
Moving abroad is exciting, but navigating daily life in a new city like Panama City, Panama requires the right tools. Whether you’re a Black expat settling in, a digital nomad, or planning a long-term relocation, having the right apps on your phone will make life smoother. From ride-sharing to food delivery, finance, and community connections, here are the essential apps for living abroad in Panama City—with comparisons to U.S. versions you may already know.
Transportation & Ride-Sharing Apps in Panama City
- Uber
- Similar to the U.S. version, Uber is the go-to ride-hailing service in Panama City.
- Unique features: Cash payment is widely accepted in Panama (unlike in many U.S. cities where Uber is card-based). This is a plus for expats who may not have a local bank card yet.
- InDriver
- Comparable to Uber and Lyft but with a twist—you negotiate the fare with your driver before the ride starts.
- Great for short rides or when you want to save money compared to Uber’s surge pricing.
- MiBus Panama App
- For navigating the city’s public bus system.
- Think of it like a combination of the U.S. “Transit App” and Google Maps—live bus tracking and routes to help you use Panama’s affordable public transport.
Food & Grocery Delivery Apps
- PedidosYa
- Equivalent to DoorDash or Uber Eats in the U.S.
- Offers restaurant delivery, grocery shopping, and even pharmacy items.
- Bonus: Many local Panamanian restaurants only use PedidosYa, so it’s essential if you want to try authentic food beyond fast-food chains.
- Uber Eats
- Works much like in the U.S., but coverage is smaller than PedidosYa.
- Convenient if you already have a U.S. Uber account—you can log in seamlessly.
- Rappi
- Popular across Latin America, similar to Instacart + Uber Eats combined.
- Besides food delivery, you can order groceries, electronics, and even cash withdrawals delivered to your door.
Finance & Money Transfer Apps
- Nequi
- Panama’s answer to Cash App or Venmo.
- You can use it to pay bills, send/receive money, and make QR code payments—helpful for small shops and street vendors.
2. Yappy
- Linked directly to Panamanian bank accounts.
- Works like Zelle in the U.S., making peer-to-peer transfers quick and free.
- Wise (formerly TransferWise)
- Essential for expats moving money between the U.S. and Panama.
- Much cheaper than traditional bank wires, with real exchange rates.
Shopping & Essentials
- Super 99 & Riba Smith Apps
- Local grocery store apps (similar to Walmart Grocery App in the U.S.).
- You can check product availability, order online, and sometimes schedule delivery.
- MercadoLibre
- Latin America’s Amazon equivalent.
- Ideal for ordering home essentials, electronics, and even furniture when setting up your apartment in Panama City.
Expat & Community Connection Apps
- Meetup
Just as in the U.S., Meetup is widely used for connecting with communities, including expat networking groups and Black expat meetups.
Search for “Expats in Panama City” or “Digital Nomads Panama.”
- Facebook Groups + WhatsApp Communities
While not “apps” per se, these are vital in Panama for expat life.
Popular groups: Expats in Panama City, Afro-Expats Panama, and Digital Nomads Panama.
WhatsApp is the primary communication tool in Panama—far more than text messaging.
Other Useful Everyday Apps
- Google Maps / Waze → Waze is often preferred in Panama due to real-time traffic updates and more accurate routing in city congestion.
- Duolingo → For learning Spanish basics quickly. Panama is bilingual in some circles, but Spanish will open more doors.
- Glovo → A delivery app for smaller items, similar to Postmates.
Pro Tips for Black Expats in Panama City
- Cash is still king. While apps are helpful, always keep some cash on hand since smaller businesses may not accept cards or app payments.
- WhatsApp for everything. From landlords to delivery drivers, everyone uses WhatsApp as the default communication app.
- Test multiple delivery apps. Sometimes one app will have better availability or prices than another.
Final Thoughts: Living Smart in Panama City
As a Black expat in Panama City, having the right apps makes life not only more convenient but also helps you adapt quickly to local culture. From negotiating rides on InDriver, getting groceries via PedidosYa, to transferring money instantly with Nequi or Yappy, these tools bridge the gap between what you’re used to in the U.S. and how Panama really works day-to-day.
With these essential apps for expats in Panama, you’ll feel more confident navigating your new city, connecting with community, and building a fulfilling life abroad.