Medellin

Going from one of the most dangerous cities in the world to one of the most contemporary, eclectic, and just flat out cool places I’ve ever been to is exactly what Medellin has done. Here’s what you need to do.

Stay: La Poblada

Anywhere in this area is where you want to be, because this is the area you will end up most nights (unless you’re an old and boring person reading this, in which case, there are also other nice areas, but I didn’t stay in them so I can’t talk about them). We went with an AirBnB for our larger group and it was really great. This place does have an edgier feel to it, which can lead to moments of uneasy feelings, but with that said, I never felt unsafe at all.

Guatape

Day trip to Guatape is one of those things that you just have to do, and for good reason honestly. This sounds somewhat of a begrudging recommendation, and it sort of is - the drive was long and the weather was not ideal and half our group had stomach issues and the bugs were all over the place, and well, you get the point. But with that said, the colorful town and its famous umbrella street is stunning, the lake and its coves and mansions (and history) is magnificent and hiking to the top of the rock of El Piñon is absolutely sick.

Communa 13

Communa 13 is the coolest neighborhood in the world. We did a half day tour of it, but it absolutely deserves a full day and night. The artwork, street performances, food, music, vibes, just absolutely everything is on point. To have once been the epicenter for Pablo Escobar’s drug trade and now play host to ferris wheels, skate parks, gondolas, and thousands of people from around the world is a spectacular site, and one that you absolutely must see (a tour is something I definitely would recommend, it can get confusing given the geography of the area).

Paragliding

Paragliding around Medellin is also one of those experiences that you just will never forget. Medellin is surrounded by massive hills, and getting to fly around them and feel the wind and clouds on your face while gliding next to birds and over waterfalls is next level. Plus, its not that expensive, and probably totally safe! But like actually, 100% safety record. 

Roam Around (Use the Metro!)

Roam around the city and don’t be afraid to use the metro, as I found it to be a wonderful and safe way to get around. I know there are stories of pick pockets and whatnot, but just be aware and on top of your things and you’ll be fine. Your itinerary for a day of exploring should be as follows:

Start up at Parque Explora, go to the museums (especially if you have kids), and walk around the botanical gardens. I usually find botanical gardens to be pointless, but this was beautiful, with some stunning architecture inside as well.

Had down to Plaza Botero, where you will find beautiful buildings and the Botero Museum, a must in Medellin. There’s usually a market here as well to buy some stuff, most of which we found to be knock off shoes! But also definitely have some of the fresh lemonade, absolute fire.

Just roam the La Candelaria area, there are so many beautiful malls and streets and shops that will more than occupy an afternoon!

Eat:

First of all, a lot of what we had was random street food or food from tours we did (the Guatape tour and Communa 13 tour both included lunch, and I’m not really a breakfast guy). So not much I recommend there. But, with that said, the street food here is great and I highly recommend it! Now on to a couple restaurants to check out.

Abbiocco is the place to go when you are in El Poblada area. It a beautiful fusion between Colombian and Italian food, set in a stunning space and right on the edge of Park Lleras (the center of El Poblada). Plus, the price point is GREAT for the quality of food you get here (get the crispy pork dish).

Honestly, that’s all I’ve got for food recs in Medellin, my sincere apologies.

Scene:

Medellin is safe. That’s the main thing people seem to ask and worry about. Is it Singapore? No. Be smart. There are temptations everywhere. But there is also police everywhere. The government has done a really good job of cracking down and making this a country fit for tourists. And it truly is. I left feeling so impressed with Colombia and with a strong desire to come back. It is brimming with potential, already full of 20-something-year-old backpackers eager to see this country reborn. Our parents’ generation will probably never be comfortable visiting this one Mecca for drugs, and rightfully so, but for our generation and generations to come, Colombia is where its at.