An Introduction to Colombia Medellin
"Medellín, Colombia's "City of Eternal Spring," is renowned for its innovative urban development, vibrant culture, and picturesque mountain setting.
A Short Introduction
When I visited Medellín, I was struck by its incredible transformation from its notorious past to a vibrant, modern city nestled in the lush Aburrá Valley. The city's innovative spirit was evident everywhere, from its efficient Metro system to the revitalized public spaces like the stunning parks and libraries. Walking through neighborhoods like El Poblado and Comuna 13, I saw firsthand the vibrant street art and felt the warm, welcoming energy of the people. The blend of tradition and progress, set against the backdrop of towering mountains, made my experience in Medellín truly unforgettable.
Comuna 13
Visiting Comuna 13, I started my journey with a metro ride to San Javier station, where I could already see how this once dangerous area had transformed. Riding the Metrocable over the neighborhood, I got a bird’s-eye view of the bustling streets and colorful murals, as my guide explained the complex history of the area. It was hard to imagine that not too long ago, this place was ruled by violence from drug cartels and paramilitaries.
Once we arrived at the famous escalators, I met a local guide from Comuna 13, who led us through narrow streets adorned with vibrant graffiti. Every mural told a story of resilience, hope, and survival, offering a glimpse into the struggles and victories of the people who live there. My guide pointed out that while many tourists associate Medellín with Pablo Escobar, the people of Comuna 13 prefer not to focus on that painful chapter. Instead, they are eager to show the progress they’ve made since those dark days. The guide emphasized how the neighborhood is now about community projects and creative expression rather than the shadow of Escobar.
Medellín
‘‘A Birds eye View’’
The food of Medellín reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Antioquia region, offering hearty, flavorful dishes rooted in local ingredients. Some iconic foods include:
Bandeja Paisa: A traditional meal loaded with rice, beans, chicharrón (fried pork belly), arepa, avocado, fried egg, and ground beef, representing the region’s agricultural and culinary heritage.
Arepas: Thick corn flatbreads, often served with cheese or butter, are a staple in almost every meal.
Sancocho: A hearty soup made with meat, plantains, potatoes, yuca, and corn, popular for family gatherings and special occasions.
Chorizo and Morcilla: These sausages, served with arepas or plantains, are common street foods and perfect for a quick, savory snack.
Buñuelos: Deep-fried dough balls with a crispy outside and soft inside, usually enjoyed as a snack or during the holiday season.
Medellín’s food culture celebrates traditional flavors while embracing fresh local produce, making it a paradise for food lovers
Things to do
During my time in Medellín I was lucky to explore so much in my brief 2 night trip. Many of which were hands on. Here are a few that stand out:
Coffee Tasting (Medellín Coffee Masters): We dived deep into the world of coffee at an expert-led coffee-tasting workshop. The experience began with learning about Colombia’s rich coffee culture and history, followed by a detailed walkthrough of the entire coffee-making process—from bean cultivation to preparation. You also had a chance to smell and taste different varieties of premium Colombian coffee, guided by a barista, and learned how to brew the perfect cup yourself.
Leather Crafting Workshop: This sustainable fashion tour allowed me to get hands-on with local artisans, crafting my own leather goods. The tour aimed to showcase Medellín's efforts toward eco-friendly production and fashion. Not only did I walk away with a personalised leather item, but I also learned about the significance of supporting local craftsmanship and sustainable practices.
Parque Arví :The park was a perfect escape from the city's hustle, with its vast green spaces and peaceful walking trails. I took the Metrocable to reach the park, enjoying scenic views on the way up. Once there, I explored several nature paths, surrounded by dense forests and fresh air, making it a relaxing and refreshing experience.
Reflections
When I was in Medellín, I felt generally safe, especially in the popular areas like El Poblado and Laureles. The city has come a long way in terms of safety, and I found it to be a comfortable experience as long as I stayed in well-trafficked and tourist-friendly areas. I did, of course, take the usual precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and not displaying valuables openly. The local people were warm and welcoming, which helped make my visit feel even safer. Overall, I had no major concerns and enjoyed my time in Medellín.
Flight traveling from the UK to Medellín is a fairly long journey. The flight distance between London and Medellín is around 5,200 miles (8,370 kilometers). I decided to travel via Miami .Depending on your connection and the layover time, the total travel time usually ranges from 13 to 16 hours.
It's a long trip, but once you arrive, the journey is well worth it for the unique experiences Medellín offers!
