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🇨🇴 Medellin, Colombia, once notorious for its troubled past (learn more about Pablo Escobar), has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it's a vibrant metropolis brimming with art, culture, and a palpable energy. This city, nestled in a valley surrounded by lush green mountains, was one that offered a unique blend of urban sophistication and Colombian warmth, much similar to Jamaica.
Getting There:
You can travel to Medellin on your Jamaican passport from both major cities.
Montego Bay: Copa Airline
Kingston: Copa Airlines and Arajet.
Getting Around:
Medellin boasts an efficient public transportation system.
Metro: The city's pride and joy, the Metro is clean, modern, and affordable.
Metrocable: This innovative system connects hillside neighborhoods with the city center, offering stunning views.
Buses: Numerous bus routes crisscross the city, providing affordable and convenient transportation.
Taxis + Uber: Readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Accommodation:
Medellin offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget:
Luxury: The Hotel Intercontinental and the Sofitel Victoria Regia offer world-class amenities and stunning city views.
Mid-range: Numerous boutique hotels and stylish guesthouses provide comfortable and stylish stays. My favourite boutique hands-down would be Blues Suite.
Budget: Hostels and Airbnb options are plentiful, offering budget-friendly accommodation in various neighborhoods.
Food:
Medellin is a foodie's paradise!
Must-tries:
Bandeja Paisa: A hearty traditional Colombian dish featuring beans, rice, pork, chorizo, avocado, and arepas.
Arepas: Corn cakes filled with various ingredients, from cheese and ground beef to avocado and eggs.
Empanadas: Savory pastries filled with various fillings, often beef or chicken.
Don't miss: Explore the vibrant food markets, sample street food from local vendors, and dine at trendy restaurants serving modern Colombian cuisine.
Activities:
Comuna 13: Take a guided tour of this once-troubled neighborhood, now transformed into a vibrant hub of street art and community spirit.
Parque Arvi: Escape the city and enjoy the natural beauty of this sprawling park, accessible by Metrocable.
Botanical Garden: Explore the diverse flora of Colombia and enjoy a peaceful stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens.
Guatape: Take a day trip to this picturesque town, famous for its colorful houses and the iconic El Peñol rock. Make sure you pack your comfy walking shoes and be prepared to climb 740 steps BOTH WAYS! They charge COP 18,000 per person to climb the rock (up a rickety castle-like structure, with several floors of souvenir shops layered in between levels).
People:
Medellin is known for its friendly and welcoming people. You'll encounter locals eager to share their city and culture with visitors.
Weather:
Medellin enjoys a "City of Eternal Spring" climate, with consistently mild temperatures throughout the year. Expect average highs in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (low 20s Celsius) and lows in the mid-50s Fahrenheit (low 10s Celsius).
Ambiance:
Medellin has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Daytime is filled with the bustle of city life, while evenings come alive with music, nightlife, and a lively social scene.
Tips for Chelle'J Travelers:
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases: While many people I encountered spoke English, knowing a few Spanish phrases will enhance your interactions with the locals.
Embrace the local culture: Attend a salsa class, try some traditional Colombian food, and engage with the local community.
Stay safe: As with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Overall, Medellin is a city that will surprise and delight you. With its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, it's a destination that will leave a lasting impression.
I hope this article inspires you to visit and send us an email at info@chellej.com to plan your own unforgettable trip to Medellin!
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