Exploring Medellín: A Traveler's Delight
Medellín, the vibrant heart of Colombia, is a city pulsating with life, culture, and history. Nestled within the Andes Mountains, this bustling metropolis has transformed itself from a once-infamous reputation to a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, beauty, and culinary delights. We had a wonderful time exploring the enchanting streets of Medellín, uncovering its hidden gems, delectable cuisines, and interesting accommodations.
First off Where to Stay:
When it comes to accommodations in Medellín, the options are as diverse as the city itself. We stayed at The Hotel Marquee Medellin in a central location in the upscale El Poblado neighborhood. It is walkable to lots of great shops and restaurants. In fact, the hotel is located inside a park which is closed to traffic and has tourist police monitoring the entire area. It is one of the top five hotels in the city, has a great rooftop pool and breakfast was fabulous. The downside is the area has great nightlife that the hotel to their credit tells you upfront will keep you up at night if you are a light sleeper. They also provide earplugs on your bed table! But hey if you want to go out and dance and party this is a great location. My recommendations for places to stay in the neighborhood also include The Charlee Hotel which also appears to be one of the nicer hotels in the park. It is rumored to be a bit quieter than the Marquee, but I can’t confirm that. The Click Clack Hotel Medellín which definitely is just outside the park so it should be quieter in the rooms. For those of us who grew up hearing stories of Pablo Escobar and Colombia we were slightly concerned about safety in Colombia and by staying in El Poblano and specifically in or close to the park we were assured of lots of tourist police/security that made me feel comfortable the entire time.
Culinary Delights
No visit to Medellín is complete without indulging in its rich and diverse culinary scene. From traditional Colombian fare to international fusion cuisine, the city tantalizes taste buds with an array of mouthwatering dishes. For a truly authentic culinary experience, explore the bustling streets of Medellín’s food markets and street stalls. Sample an array of local delicacies such as arepas, empanadas, and patacones, freshly prepared and bursting with flavor. Don’t miss the opportunity to try a traditional Colombian arepa stuffed with cheese or savory meats from a street vendor in the lively Plaza Botero.
Exploring Medellín:
Beyond its culinary delights and cozy accommodations, Medellín beckons travelers with its wealth of cultural attractions, scenic beauty, and vibrant street life. The not to miss sites are definitely comma 13 a shining example of what was one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the world with Pablo Escobar as a resident to a beautiful art and music filled tourist friendly area definitely don’t miss this. (Note there are a lot of stairs, and everything is on a hill in this town but don’t fear there are escalators or moving stairs as the locals call them.) Also do a tour using the gondolas of different neighborhoods you get a really good overview of life in the city for most of the population by riding the gondolas that are their public transportation.
Art and Culture:
There is nowhere in Colombia that you don’t find that wonderful Botero art but here in Medellín don’t miss a visit to the Museo de Antioquia, home to a vast collection of works by the Colombian master Fernando Botero. Marvel at his iconic sculptures and paintings that celebrate the voluptuous figures and whimsical scenes that define his unique style.
Shopping:
There are definitely cute shops in El poblano , there are also large malls close by that are your typical malls in South America. Also don’t miss the area near Plaza Botero there are several buildings along the walking areas just a few blocks away that have all kinds of interesting shops selling everything from fakes to unique crafts, here is where the locals come to shop.
Adventure Awaits:
For the adventurous traveler, not really on my list of things to do but in case you were interested…Medellín offers a myriad of outdoor activities amidst its stunning natural landscapes. Embark on a thrilling hike through the rugged terrain of Parque Arví, where lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and panoramic vistas await at every turn. For the adrenaline junkies, zip-lining tours in nearby Santa Elena provide an exhilarating perspective of the Andean foothills.
Security:
Maybe I should have started with this, and this is only my personal recommendations. As always be vigilant, don’t wear anything flashy, use a local tour guide when touring/exploring its worth the few extra dollars to have a local expert guide you around and keep you out of trouble. Drugs and sex are still a large part of the economy so if you are out late at night be extremely careful. We are a little old for that kind of thing, so we never saw any issues.
In conclusion :
I highly recommend visiting Medellín I will absolutely be back! Plan your adventure today and discover why Medellín truly is a traveler’s paradise.
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Rick Isaacson
Rick Isaacson, a retired importer with a passion for exploration, has transformed his life into an endless adventure of global travel. Specializing in slow travel, Rick immerses himself in the cultures and landscapes of the places he visits, savoring every moment. With a wealth of experience navigating the world, he loves to share his travel tales, offering insights on the best destinations and the most efficient ways to get there using a savvy mix of points, miles, and cash. Rick's journeys are a testament to the art of making travel both affordable, luxurious and deeply enriching.
