ISSUE
5 - FREE
ENJOY MEDELLÍN AND AVOID TROUBLE
A NORMAL DAY IN MEDELLIN
Inside Medellin team Co - founders: Christophe Martin - 313 429 64 33 Florian Niederberger - 310 432 14 00 Design: Camilo Areiza Hernández Editor: Fraser Gillies Writers: Jenna stanfield Fraser Gillies SteveHamilton Ana Maria Palacio Lopera Meerah Gill Photos: Juan Carlos Velásquez Posada Courtesy of : Medellin Travel Greater Medellin Bureau
PLAZA MINORISTA, A REAL MARKET IN MEDELLIN
A JOURNEY THROUGH COFFEE CULTURE
MARINILLA THE IDEAL CHOICE FOR A MEDELLÍN GETAWAY
313 429 64 33 / 310 432 14 00 Cra. 84 # 35 - 7 Laureles
Inside Medellin Inside Medellin
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Gringo Advice
How to enjoy Medellín and avoid trouble
By Fraser Gillies
W
e’ve all been there. You’re in a new city, having too much fun and getting carried away . Before you know it, you’ve stumbled into a dangerous area or an awkward encounter. Like every major city in the world, Medellín has its safe parts and its downright risque parts. That said, crime exists and bad things can happen on both ends of the spectrum. The best way to avoid trouble? Apply common sense and a dash of self-awareness and you’ll experience Medellín in all its glory without looking over your shoulder. Paisas’ favorite piece of advice for expats is No dar papaya (Don’t give papaya), loosely meaning ‘don’t put yourself in unnecessarily exposed positions’. Not a bad tip to follow, right? At Inside Medellín, we’ve compiled some recommendations on how to best keep to this famous paisa warning.
Learn the language As much as speaking a new language can feel daunting, learning some Spanish goes a long way in Medellin.
Colombians are very patient when it comes to expats attempting Spanish, and basic vocabulary like ‘por favor’ and ‘gracias’ goes a long way Paisas don’t expect you to be fluent, but showing that you’ve done a little research and made an effort will put you in good standing. It’ll also deter criminals who may look to take advantage of non-Spanish speaking tourists. As well as being useful for getting around, Spanish can help get you out of tricky situations. If someone trying to sell you something seems extra pushy, having a sharp and clear response could save you being overcharged, misled or in extreme cases, physically hurt.
Respect Medellín’s turbulent past B
efore visiting the City of Eternal Spring, most people are aware of the negative reputation Medellin (and Colombia as a whole) holds due its violent past. Whether you got your history lesson from Narcos (admittedly not completely accurate) or more credible sources, it should be clear that the city is still in the midst of emerging from trauma.. More importantly, there is a significant number of the local population who have lived through severe violence and do not take kindly to narco-tourism. Bearing this in mind, having overly loud conversations in public about Pablo Escobar and drug kingpins is not a good idea. Even if the people around you do not speak English, names translate regardless of the language and can make locals feel uneasy. It’s pretty simple - if you want to avoid disparaging looks or verbal confrontations with Paisas, be respectful and sensitive. We are not suggesting that you censor your conversations - quite the opposite, history should not be forgotten. However, being discrete or humble about these topics goes a long way.
Don’t flaunt expensive items
A
n obvious one but for good reason. As with any crowded area of a city, exposed valuables are always a target for thieves or people looking to exploit. Plus, as a foreigner, you’re more easily identifiable, so flashing your fancy new jewelry is going to make you an obvious pick for criminals. That being said, Paisas themselves are not shabby dressers. They take pride in their appearance, so being sensible doesn’t mean you have to wear your dirtiest t-shirt and shorts combo.
Know where you’re going I
f you’re like us, you’ll love aimlessly wandering around a new place with your headphones on, marvelling at your surroundings whilst being oblivious to what everyone else is doing. While this is fine most of the time, having a sense of direction will keep you out of harm’s way. Conveniently, Medellín only has two metro lines - the A line from La Estrella to Niquia, and the B line from San Antonio to San Javier - so knowing roughly where you are isn’t too difficult.
Areas such as Bello and parts of Prado should be visited with some precaution, as gang violence and street crime has been known to be prevalent in these neighborhoods, especially during the evening. Finally, as necessary as they for getting around the city, a word of caution should be noted about taxis. For one, Uber is illegal here. Many people - including Colombians - still use the app, but it’s wise not to mention this to yellow cab drivers. If you happen to be in a cab and are stopped at traffic lights, it’s good practice to not be on your phone. Thieves on motos have been known to drive up to passenger windows and take belongings if valuable items are on display, so be vigilant when you’re sending a text or updating social media.
Don’t criticise the arepas A
lright, maybe not a totally legit concern for expats, but if you want to be in the good graces of a Colombian abuelita, your first port of call should be praising the delicious corn pancakes (arepas). They may seem dry and bland on their own, but these Colombian delicacies - when made properly - can become your staple food in the country. Also remember to smile and nod when Paisas tell you how diverse their cuisine is. It may be a divisive topic between you and your buddies, but Colombian food is the bee's knees from a local’s perspective, so be respectful and enthusiastic if probed about your opinion on the bandeja paisa.
Final Thoughts W
herever you are in the world, negative situations can unfold. Unfortunately, you find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, and through no fault of your own you’re handing over a prized possession. It’s important to remember though, that while being in MedellĂn, most people are not out to get you, and that these situations are in the minority rather than the majority. We have no doubt your time here will be memorable for all the right reasons, and to best avoid the wrong ones, follow these simple tips.
Anthony John Coletti
A normal day in
Medellin
By juan carlos velasquez posada
For photoshootings Call: +57 304 659 3278
Experience Exotic Fruits And Fun Thrift Markets At
Plaza Minorista
By Meerah Gill
Source: tripadvisor.com
S
o, you're on your holidays in Medellín but you’re tired of doing the touristy parts of a new city. Poblado’s nice but you want to taste 'real' paisa culture. If you’ve been to Éxito or Carulla, you’ll have already seen some weird and wonderful looking fruits and vegetables. Wondering where you can find more of them? Just outside the heart of centro is Plaza Minorista - a large indoor market popular with locals and lots to see.
Bureau Medellin
Bureau Medellin
Plaza Minorista’s History
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laza Minorista officially opened on August 15th 1984 after a fire destroyed its predecessor Plaza de Mercado Guayaquil in the late 1960’s. Marketplaces like Guayaquil were seen as integral to the prosperity of small business owners as they provided a concentrated space of consumer activity. When Guayaquil market was lost, many vendors took to the streets to sell products as the government failed to provide a suitable area of commerce. After several failed attempts to recreate Guayaquil with new places of trade, the government-funded construction of Plaza Minorista.
Source: plazaminorista.com
What’s In Plaza Minorista? P
laza Minorista is 26,000m² and is divided into 18 different sections, so there’s lots to see! It has over 3300 stalls which stock a wide variety of fresh produce, as well as clothing and homeware items. As you walk through the maze of stalls and pallets, you’ll notice many different exotic fruits that are on sale. Colombia’s incredible biodiversity (only second in the world to Brazil) means markets like Plaza Minorista are full of food bursting with exciting flavours and textures. Furthermore, buying groceries in Plaza Minorista is more affordable than supermarkets, making it an ideal place to shop for chefs and locals.
Source: flickr.com
If you’ve been searching for thrift stores since arriving in Medellín, Plaza Minorista has dozens of stalls dedicated to selling second-hand clothing. There are many retro items from the 80’s and 90’s, with a mixture of Latin American and European fashion. Additionally, this is the perfect opportunity to practise bartering in Spanish with slick-speaking paisa salespeople.
Getting To Plaza Minorista
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or those confident using public transportation in Medellín - take the metro A line to San Antonio and switch to the B line going towards San Javier. Get off at the next stop, Cisneros, and go to the Metroplús bus terminal outside the metro station. Take the bus with the sign “Minorista” on it and it will leave you outside Plaza Minorista. Taking the train and then metro bus will cost around $2800COP (under $1) and is easy to use.
To avoid the hassle of changing modes of transportation, taking a taxi is always the best option. Every taxi driver knows about Plaza Minorista, so getting there won’t be an issue. A taxi from centro (anywhere close to San Antonio station) will cost between $6000COP - $8000COP ($1.80 - $2.40). If you’re planning on going to Plaza Minorista by foot, be careful. Walking through parts of Prado to get to the Plaza can be unsafe, so it’s recommended to know where you’re going or be with someone who does.
Tours Of Plaza Minorista T
here are many companies in Medellín that offer in depth, guided tours of Plaza Minorista differing in price and length. Palenque Tours gives tourists and locals private 4 hour tours of the Plaza starting at $82000COP ($24), explaining the Plaza’s history and origins of the exotic fruits on show. They offer tours in English, Spanish and German. Medellín City Services also offer 4 hour private tours that are slightly or expensive ($97000COP or $28) but include private transportation, snacks and food tasting.
Source: tripadvisor.com
DISTRICT 1
Authentic vietnamese food
E
njoy delicious and authentic Vietnamese food in the heart of Poblado. Fresh and made to order when you get here. Our specialties includes Pho, Spring Rolls, Pad Thai and pan-fried dumplings. Relax on our outside patio, in the neighborhood of Provenza, close to Parque Lleras.
Cra.33 # 7 - 135 vía jardín poblado Tel:+ 57 (4) 589 85 32 District1restaurant@gmail.com Lunes a sábados Instagram: district_medellín
CHEESE RESTAURANT in Medellin The best artisan cheeses imported from France Carrera 41 # 9 -31 Lobby Art Hotel Medellín
Reservations: 366 89 76
A JOURNEY THROUGH COFFEE CULTURE F
rom Juan Valdez to Don Francisco, Colombian coffee is world-famous for its excellent quality and flavor. Cultivated using Arabica beans, Colombia’s coffee region has been recognized as a world-heritage site by UNESCO. For the people of Colombia, however, it is not so novel; the thousands of coffee shrubs along the roadside are simply a part of our everyday landscape. Colombia’s thriving culture and heritage has been built around coffee in many ways. Generations of rural Colombian families have been sustained by coffee farms, as the land, plants, and farming traditions are passed from one generation to the next. In these rural areas and pueblos, the jobs generated by coffee production and harvest support entire communities
The City Side of the Coffee Community
F
or those living in more developed and urban areas, coffee is still part of everyday existence as people from every walk of life enjoy their daily cup or three of tinto. The average Colombian may not know anything about how that daily coffee was cultivated, harvested, roasted, and brewed. In fact, many Colombians do not have access to the very best beans, since the best quality coffee is usually exported from Colombia to supply thousands of cafes around the world. Fortunately, this is changing. A great pride and value for Colombia’s coffee culture is growing among the Colombian people, as even those outside of the farming region recognize its influence on the country’s culture and economy. More and more initiatives and public spaces are being constructed to promote coffee traditions and inform more people about their value. One great example of this initiative is the Toucan Coffee Museum run by local tourism company Toucan Experience - one of the first cultural centers in the Antioquia region to offer visitors a journey into the history and origins of the Colombian coffee trade.
How to Experience Colombian Coffee Culture First-Hand
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t Toucan’s Coffee Museum and the accompanying cafe alongside you can find a variety of information and activities centered around the Colombian coffee culture, as well as freshly made coffee beverages and packaged specialty coffee to take home. To become truly immersed in the Colombian coffee experience it is necessary to take a trip out to a traditional coffee finca (farm) in the heart of the coffee region. This is the only way to fully understand the work, knowledge, and intricate processes involved in producing a single roasted coffee bean. Medellin is fortunate to be located in Antioquia the region where the most accessible Colombian farms are located. It is dotted with quaint pueblos and beautiful hacienda-style farms that offer breathtaking views of the Andes countryside. Toucan’s Coffee Museum is also the departure point for Medellin’s most popular Coffee Farm Tour. After a quick introduction to the history and origins of Colombian coffee culture participants are taken on a 90 minute journey through the hills and valleys of authentic coffee country. At the coffee farm, the farmer demonstrates how different areas of the farm work together in the magical bean-to-cup process that produces one of the world’s favorite beverages. After exploring the coffee farm with its magnificent views, tour goers are then treated to a delicious typical lunch that any Colombian farm wife would be proud to cook for her crew of hungry farmers.
T
Start Your Adventure
o start your own journey into Colombian coffee culture, visit the Toucan Coffee Museum located at Carrera 41a #10-28 El Poblado, Medellin. Toucan Experience is a tourism company which has provided a variety of cultural and socially oriented tourist experiences to over 30,000 people since 2014. In addition to coffee experiences and Medellin’s best tours they also boast the largest Spanish school in Colombia. More recently Toucan opened a dance school for those who wish to learn Latin grooves such as salsa, bachata and reggaeton. A one-stop-shop for all thing’s tourism related, as the slogan on their website goes “You Can With Toucan”. www.toucanexperience.com
Marinilla
The Ideal Choice For A Medellín Getaway
Hikes
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ou’ve already done the popular weekend trips from Medellín and you're looking for something more off-the-beaten tourist track. Guatapé and Santa Fé de Antioquia were delightful, but you now want to visit a pueblo that’s under the expat radar. Look no further. Less than an hour’s drive east of Medellín is Marinilla - a charming pueblo with spectacular hillside views and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. It’s difficult not to fall in love with the rolling hills of Antioquia, and Marinilla has some of the best sites to bask in all their glory.
By Fraser Gillies
Trover.com
With 34 different walking trails, Marinilla has plenty of hiking routes to explore. The views from the tops of the hills show off the region’s natural beauty, and the trails provide a mixture of land and river terrain. If you’re feeling competitive, Marinilla hosts a ‘Trail Festival’ in May each year. Cross-country runners and sports enthusiasts come from around Antioquia to compete in Colombia’s answer of Tough Mudder - hill and mountain running. The event is open to both Colombianos and extranjeros, with the winner being crowned as ‘La Esparta de Colombia’ (The Spartan of Colombia).
Water Activities M
arinilla boasts some of the best places for water activities. With picturesque cascadas and ríos, Marinilla s water-sports scene is constantly growing.
For those searching for something more laid back, Marinilla also has some popular fishing locations. There are many local Marinilla fishermen and women looking to make their catch of the day at Parque Alcaravanes along various points of the river. The park is also a favourite picnic and paddle boat rental spot.
Religion
Huber Gallego Z
If you’re a keen lover of canyoning, abseiling down Cascada Los Alpes and Pozo is a must-do. The waterfall is roughly 20km away, so take a mountain bike there and soak in the incredible views of El Peñol along the way.
R
eligion and spirituality play important roles in shaping Colombian society, and points of interest in Marinilla’s town center are no different. At the Casa de la Cultura - Carrera 29 #30-20 - there are over 2,500 different Christian crosses and crucifixes on display, from a range of eras and styles. The collection was amassed by a local doctor over the course of 35 years and contains pieces from every continent. Marinilla also has the Capilla de Jesus - a pristine white church in the middle of the town square that was erected in October 1968. Budding photographers and history buffs can visit to appreciate the architecture and paintings that date back to the 15th century.
Music
Huber Gallego Z.
M
uch like religion, music has an important influence on the culture of rural Colombian communities. Marinilla hosts two annual events with a particular emphasis on maintaining music’s place in its tradition.
From the 25th - 28th November, Festival Música Andina Colombiana celebrates the preservation of Colombian folkloric music. Bands perform music from the Andes mountains using pre-Colonial instruments, and provide an insight into Colombia’s heritage.
For over 40 years, La Corporación Amigos del Arte Marinilla has combined both of these cultural influences to showcase Festival de Música Religiosa de Marinilla during Semana Santa (April 3rd - April 13th) - the Colombian holy week. Marinilla’s singers and musicians congregate in the Capilla de Jesus to give moving performances of Catholic hymns and choral chamber music.
While Marinilla probably wasn’t previously top of your “Pueblos to see” list, it’s an authentic experience of Colombian pueblo life. You won’t find any gringos here only the picturesque countryside, friendly locals, and a new sense of Colombia beyond the cities.
How To Get There To go by bus, go to Terminal Norte (for which you can take the
metro A line to Caribe station) and find ticket office or taquilla 3. The bus costs only costs $6000COP ($2) and takes just over an hour. The bus will drop you off in the center of Marinilla. For more information on the town, visit the Marinilla’s website.
Jalisco Taqueria Marinilla En Jalisco Taqueria Marinilla we sell real mexican food. Our purpose is to provide our customers with the most delicious and healthy dishes in an unique and magical place in Marinilla. We are convinced that Jalisco Taqueria is place for everybody, so we also offer mexican vegetarian food. You will love our tacos, burritos, nachos, and quesadillas. Cra. 28 # 30-32 Marinilla +57 313 640 6236 +57 314 842 3149 @jaliscotaqueriamarinilla
DURING YOUR VACATIONS
RENTING CARS EASY, FAST AND SAFE BEST DEALS ALWAYS RENT FOR HOURS
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COMIC STRIP
Museos / Museums 1 2 3 4
Museo de Antioquia Museo Casa de la Memoria Museo de Arte Moderno Museo El Castillo
Estación Arví
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Pulmones verdes Green lungs Parque Arví Jardín Botánico Ciudad del Río
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Parques y Plazas Parks and squares Parque Explora y Acuario Plaza Botero
Atracciones y sitios de interés Attractions and places of interest 11
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Río Medellín / Medellín River Estación / Station Estación de Transferencia / Transfer Station Línea / Line: Niquia - La Estrella - Niquia Línea / Line: San Antonio - San Javier - San Antonio Línea / Line: San Javier - La Aurora - San Javier Línea / Line: Acevedo - Santo Domingo - Acevedo Línea / Line: Santo Domingo - Arví - Santo Domingo Línea / Line: U. de M. - Av. Ferrocarril - Parque Aranjuez Av. Ferrocarril - U. de M. Línea / Line: Miraflores - Trece de Noviembre - Miraflores Tranvía / Tramway
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Explore Antioquia Via
Mountain Bike!
By Jenna Stanfield
A
s you know, Medellin is in a large valley, the Aburrá Valley…. And one of the best things about being located in a valley, in addition to the spectacular views from anywhere in the city, is that it is surrounded by the Colombian Andes! For mountain lovers like myself, living in Medellin, the capital of the department of Antioquia, a department that boasts 80% of its territory as mountainous, means that exploration and adventuring is nearly endless! The question for me once I started living here, was: How am I going to explore all of these mountains? The answer from my new Colombian friends was…. “On a bike, of course!”
One thing that Colombian’s love almost as much as they love football (aka soccer), is bicycles. Now that Colombian cyclist, Egan Bernal, won the Tour de France in 2019, cycling is even more popular. Therefore, if you want to make Colombian friends one great way to do it, is ride a bike! If you’re like me, I know what you might be thinking, “I can ride a bike in the city on a flat road…but riding in the mountains…. I think my legs might fall off”. However, if you’re also like me…. you love a challenge! So, when I first moved here, I borrowed a bike from a friend and started riding in Ciclovía (this is when the city shuts down specific roads on Sundays and Holidays for cyclists, joggers, and walkers). It had probably been 10 years since I had ridden a bike, so I thought starting on a flat paved road with nearby medical attention was the way to go, LOL!
After I had become comfortable on the bike again, my friend invited me to go with a group called Espíritu de Montaña (Mountain Spirit) for a ride outside of the city in the beautiful mountain town of Ovejas. My friend assured me that this was a non-competitive group with people who all are at different levels of experience and fitness. So, I decided to give it a shot….and I haven’t turned back since. The group provides transportation, a guide, refreshments, and lunch at a very good price! I also was the only foreigner in the group when I started so it was great way to practice my Spanish.
My ride with Espíritu Montaña in Ovejas set a new standard when it came to riding my bike. I no longer was satisfied with a Sunday afternoon ride through the city, I wanted to be in the mountains riding my bike exploring all that the mountains in Antioquia. Since that first ride in August of 2017, I have ridden with them nearly once a month in different towns like Santa Fe, Jardin, Ciseros, La Pintada, El Retiro, Copacabana and many others around Antioquia. They also organized a private ride when I had some friends visiting. We wanted a unique way to explore around Guatape, and they organized the perfect day for us. Now that I have been living in Medellin for going on 3 years, Mountain Biking has become one of the central pieces of my recreational life here. Though Medellin is a beautiful city which love, I have found that for my soul I need to get out of the city and experience the richness that the nature in this region has to offer at least once a month.
If you’re interested in joining Espiritu de Montana for a monthly ride or you would like them to organize a private ride for you and some friends, contact Anderson Mejia at +57 3103091222. You can also check out their Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/espiritu.montana/
Word search puzzle Villages of Antioquia
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SANRAFAEL JARDIN JERICO GUATAPE TAMESIS SANCARLOS MARINILLA SANTAFE URRAO SONSON SANPEDRO ELRETIRO
Palabras a encontrar: SANRAFAEL JARDIN JERICO GUATAPE
TAMESIS SANCARLOS MARINILLA SANTAFE
ELEMENTAL GLOCAL
URRAO SONSON SANPEDRO ELRETIRO
SPANISH SCHOOL
Not all classrooms have four walls! Do you want to learn spanish and get to know the city of Medellín? Resuelve en linea esta sopa: https://buscapalabras.com.ar/sopa-de-letras-de-villages-of-antioquia_2.html
With Us, you will experience both Esta sopa de letras en buscapalabras.com.ar/crear-sopa-de-letras.php at the same time.fue It´srealizada Elemental, Glocal thinking! En buscapalabras.com.ar/ensopados podes jugar miles de sopas de letras compitiendo en tiempo real! Contact Us: Mariana Moreno Pérez (+57) 321 849 67 45 elementalglocal@gmail.com Follow us: @eglocal
Art by: @sucursal_mirey
Medellín's Must-See Neighborhoods
By Ana María Palacio lopera
Y
ou’ve just arrived in the city of eternal spring. What areas should you visit? Picking a neighborhood to eat in, stay, explore can be a cumbersome process, especially if you’re somewhere new and without a guide. But don’t fret! Being paisa (someone from Medellín or its surrounding area), I know a thing or two about the spots that best show-off my glorious city. So if you want to get the lowdown on Medellín’s highlights and its areas that best characterize the city’s social dynamics, check out my suggestions below!
Centro - For Culture
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entro really is the beating heart of Medellín. It represents the hub of our trade and commerce, and the best place to find a bargain. Centro’s alleys and walkways are lined with street vendors waiting to sell you literally everything and anything. Want to buy a fake pair of Nike trainers and some Catholic paraphernalia? Centro can offer you that and more. Medellín’s best bandeja paisa - the city’s most
famous and notorious dish - can be found at La Hacienda, a restaurant highly popular with locals and tourists alike. Additionally, Medellín’s oldest museum Museo de Antioquia looks onto Centro’s Plaza Botero. If you have a fond interest in art, Museo de Antioquia curates a comprehensive collection of works by Medellín’s most renowned artist Fernando Botero. Stepping outside of the museum onto Plaza Botero, you’ll also find 23 of Botero’s famous metal sculptures.
Comuna 13 - For history Source:Noticias Caracol
O
nce one of Medellin’s most dangerous neighborhoods, Comuna 13 is now a shining example of infrastructure and economic progression for the city. After the construction of an outdoor public escalator in 2011, this district has experienced a profound transformation. The public escalator has given people in and outside of Comuna 13 the freedom to move in and out of the neighborhood. Moreover, young people within Comuna 13 have been able to showcase and create cultural initiatives around graffiti art and hip-hop, two vital components of Medellin’s cultural history.
Laureles - For staying and eating
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f you are a foodie and also enjoy being around trees, Laureles is your ideal neighborhood. Rivaling El Poblado’s popularity with tourists, Laureles has fast become Medellin’s trendy neighborhood for visitors to base themselves in. In terms of food, the variety and quality of options are plentiful, offering Peruvian, Mexican, Italian and French cuisine. Artisanal coffee houses, designer shops, and swanky bars make Laureles a neighborhood with incredible choice. Source: Tripadvisor
El Poblado - For Nightlife
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t may be full of gringos come nighttime, but like it or lump it, El Poblado is the number one spot for a nighttime boogie or having a casual drink with friends. The plethora of bar and club options are endless, and really cater to whatever you’re after. For a special pint brewed here in Colombia, check out the BBC bar around the corner from the diez. If you fancy something a little more, fancy, why not try the Envy Rooftop bar on top of the Charlee Hotel? For a truly authentic and crazy Colombian night out, the fonda Dulce Jesus Mío is an absolute must.
Source: flickr
To Wrap up
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edellín has many charms and areas of wonder which make me feel proud to live here, and unfortunately, I’ve had to miss many of them off this list. However, if you use this as a rough guide, I’ve got no doubt your time here will be nothing but memorable. Enjoy yourselves and bienvenidos a Medellín!
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La Frontera
An Alternative Neighborhood For Expat Living
BY STEVEN HAMILTON
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hat makes Medellín a special city is that it has something for everyone. For me, moving here was initially for work, but I found that I wanted to live a calmer more peaceful life. I didn’t see Medellín as a place to party and have a good time - it was a place to live a better life. I moved to Colombia from the bay area of San Francisco. When I first arrived, it was a culture shock because people were more connected. On the weekend, it was more about being with friends and family than it was catching up with the things around the house. Typically speaking, most expats who flock to Medellin live in one of three neighborhoods - Provenza, El Poblado or Laureles. While I like all three for different reasons, the barrio I like the most and live in is La Frontera.
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a Frontera is tucked in between metro stations Aguacatala and Ayura, and sits just south of El Poblado, a prime location on the outskirts of the metropolitan area desirable to expats and Antioqueños alike. As someone who prefers a calmer way of life, La Frontera is perfect if you want to avoid loud parties and human traffic. Despite being a quieter part of the city, La Frontera still has plenty of stores and malls within walking distance, so you’re not completely cut-off from the city. When I first took to the streets of La Frontera, I was pleased to find that my apartment was within a 10 minute walking radius of not one but three supermarkets. Carulla, Jumbo, and Éxito are all very accessible for picking up a snack or doing your weekly shop.
Location
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s I already mentioned, La Frontera is very close to the Aguacatala and Ayura metro stations, but it also has a plethora of buses that run up and down Avenida Las Vegas and Avenida El Poblado. If you’re confident you know where you are going, you can take most of them knowing that they’re going in the rough direction of the city center. La Frontera’s streets are lined with gorgeous palm trees, giving you the feeling you’re living next to a beach somewhere on the coast. The local residents have created a tightly knit community that is welcoming to all newcomers, such as myself. When I arrived, my neighbors immediately made me feel at home and were always willing to offer a helping hand.
Source: shutterstock.com Source: Dary Zulu
Outdoor spaces
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ften, living in a city means you have to sacrifice a bit of nature and opportunity to get some fresh air. It was pleasantly surprising therefore, to find La Frontera also had a centrally located park- Parque Santa Maria de Los Ángeles. Parque Santa Maria is a popular space for dog walkers and picnics - perfect for when you fancy eating lunch on a sunny day whilst watching dogs play outside. Aswell as this, La Frontera provides a farmers markets every Tuesday and Thursday, selling a variety of fresh produce and street food. If you’re a keen runner or cyclist, there’s the ciclovia that runs every Sunday and public holiday. Part of the main highway (the autopista) is closed for the morning so that it may be used as a cycle and running path. The ciclovia is also welcome to dogs, skateboarders, and rollerbladers.
Restaurants
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Source: lacalle.com.ve
hether you’re searching for modern bistros, Argentinian steakhouses, or traditional Paisa dishes, La Frontera has plenty of restaurant choices. As well as being a short taxi ride from the center of Poblado, La Frontera has a large food court in Sao Paulo Plaza with a wide variety of quality chain and independent restaurants. For those who fancy trying typical Colombian food, an absolute must is to visit the Don Gourmet food cart. The owner of the cart Alvaro - who speaks both English and Spanish - is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu. His loaded arepa is truly some of the best street food I’ve ever tasted in my life.
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hile a lot of expats come to Medellín for the parties and bustling city lifestyle, it’s not my cup of tea anymore. I’m at a stage in my life where I want to appreciate the amenities around me fully, and not be distracted by constant noise pollution from bars and clubs. Every year when my lease is coming up for renewal, I do a bit of casual apartment research, just to see what else is available. Even though I find amazing apartments in areas close by and at cheaper prices, La Frontera’s perfect location and warm community always convinces me to resign on the dotted line.
Rounding Off
HEALTHY FOOD Happy life
Açai - Bowls Toasts - Salads - Wraps Smoothies - Café
8AM-10PM EVERY DAY @SMASHAVOCADERIA
MERCADO DEL PARQUE LAURELES CARRERA 74 #39D-16
HEALTHY FOOD
VEGAN OPTIONS
RTCNJT OTYYKDR
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Your Korean restaurant in Medellin laureles. The portions are generous and always delicious, the staff is nice and the food is fresh and filling. The meat is always cooked well, never tough. Everything is reasonably priced and the portions are big enough to have left overs.
+57 (4) 412 1874
Tagliata Carne y Pasta Your first address for the best charcoal grill roasted beef and artisan pastas. A space created for the enjoyment of the senses, with a design and a distribution of elegant and welcoming spaces; a discreet and peaceful atmosphere. Cra. 43D – 13-23 Manila El Poblado +57 (4) 266 21 48 tagliatacarneypasta Tagliata_carne_pasta
Restaurante Tacuate We are a restaurant inspired by Mexican culture. A space full of colors, smells and many flavors that will take you to live a true Mexican experience, a place where you will find the true Mexican pleasure. Welcome my cuates. Carrera 75 # 40-09 tacuaterestaurante tacuate restaurante bar (034) 5017467
La Tienda del Vino The taste of renewed tradition through a radical recipe: Creole food paired with our great selection of wines. Open from 12:00 p. m. - 11:00 p. m. @latiendadelvinorestaurante @latiendadelvinorestaurante +57 (4) 311 5822 - 311 5865 Calle 9 # 43b-93 El Poblado
Jalisco Taqueria Marinilla
En Jalisco Taqueria Marinilla we sell real mexican food. Our purpose is to provide our customers with the most delicious and healthy dishes in an unique and magical place in Marinilla. We are convinced that Jalisco Taqueria is place for everybody, so we also offer mexican vegetarian food. You will love our tacos, burritos, nachos, and quesadillas. Cra. 28 # 30-32 Marinilla + 57 313 640 6236 314 842 3149 @jaliscotaqueriamarinilla/ @jaliscomarinilla/
El Graspo de Uva THE BEST WOOD FIRED STONE OVEN PIZZA IN THE CITY! Enjoy a game of golf in the courtyard while you are waiting for your authentic Italian food, with a rustic, pleasant ambience and an Italian chef. Cll. 9 # 43B - 55 Poblado +57 (4) 311 0562
District 1
Authentic vietnamese food
Enjoy delicious and authentic Vietnamese food in the heart of Poblado. Fresh and made to order when you get here. Our specialties includes Pho, Spring Rolls, Pad Thai and pan-fried dumplings. Cra.33 # 7 - 135 vía jardín poblado Tel: + 57 (4) 589 85 32 District1restaurant@gmail.com Lunes a sábados Instagram: district_medellín
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Café Revolución BEST ESPRESSO IN MEDELLIN
One of Medellín’s best-kept secrets. Founded in 2014, our vibrant and charming café is known for bringing together people from all walks of life. Try our different brewing methods from our selection of single origin beans locally grown and roasted.
@caferevolucion @caferevolucion2 +57 (4) 5899289
El Cairo El Cairo is a really authentic egyptian restaurant and the flavor is the right one. You can tell it in a simple hummus or falafel, the rice with nuts (Riz Yadra), chicken and beef shesh kebab are delicous. Amazing food and service, the chef is Egyptian. You definitly most visit. Calle 10, 36-22 (Poblado) elcairo.cocina.arabe (+57) 304 242 46 07 El Cairo - Cocina Arabe
Irish Bar
Paraiso Resto-Ca-
Patricks is a great place to enjoy a drink and a meal. Located perfectly in el poblado, Patrick’s sits on a beautiful block and has a large outdoor seating area for an amazing people watching experience. Inside, they have huge flat screens everywhere, for those that want to watch sports.
Tucked away down a side street off la 70, Paraíso’s name really says it all. The perfect place to hide away for an afternoon, Paraíso serves up tasty sandwiches alongside delicious desserts. The coffee itself, rich and flavourful, is bought from a small finca on the outskirts of Medellín
Cra. 37a #8 A 43 Medellín (El Poblado, Lleras) +57 4 3115607 @Patrick’s Irish Pub
Punta Arena Is an eclectic and informal space where you can travel around the different regions of Colombia through its Craft Beers. More than 170 different beers, and more than 30 tap’s running. You can also pair your beer with a small and honest menu with homemade products. Open from 11am – 11pm Monday to Saturday Carrera 66B #35-40,Barrio conquistadores puntarena.cerveceria.cafe @puntarena.deli +57 5814999 +57 305 3952102
Café Cliché An authentic "french bistro" in the heart of Laureles Come and enjoy the cosy atmosphere and delicious homemade cuisine with locally-sourced fresh produce, traditional charcuterie and delicious desserts. Join us for the lunch! Menu del dia served daily from 12-3pm. Open Tuesday-Thursday 12pm-10pm Friday-Saturday 12pm-12am.
Cra 76#41-41 Laureles @cafeclichemedellin @cafeclichemedellin + 54 (4) 5826771
Calle 42 # 70-38 (Laureles) +57 4 5811655 @Paraiso Resto-Café
La Boutique de la Buena Mesa CHEESE RESTAURANT IN MEDELLIN. THE BEST ARTISAN CHEESES IMPORTED FROM FRANCE. If you are a cheese-lover, this is the place to go in Medellin. Everything is delicious, from the soup, to the sandwiches. The fondue is excellent and so was the charcuterie. Carrera 41 N° 9 - 31 Lobby Art Hotel Medellin Reservations (034) 366 89 76 www.laboutiquedelabuenamesa.com @laboutiquedelabuenamesa/
SMASH Healthy food, come and enjoy an infinite variety of avocado-based foods in a comfortable environment. Open : 08 am – 10pm Every Day Mercado del Parque Laureles Carrera 74 # 39D-16 @smash.avocaderia
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Translation and Language Lessons Gustave Traducciones S.A.S. is a company that provides official translation and interpretation services, voice over, and text editing in different languages. We also offer the service of apostille and legalization of documents (titles, degrees, certificates, grades, etc.) CALL US RIGHT NOW! 7/7 Calle 7D # 43C – 134, Medellín, Poblado +57 (4) 509 7897 +57 300 327 6146 @gustavetraduccionessas www.gustavetraducciones.com
Mega Centro Mall Brand clothes Brand shoes Jewelry Sport and adventure Perfumery All at wholesale price!! Open : Monday to sunday
City center: Between Carabobo and Cundinamarca Calle 47 Metro Station: San Antonio
Montzu polografía We are a company specialized in security with up to 10 years of experience in the field. We offer the following services: - Polygraphy tests - Home visits with emphasis on security - Data verification (vetting and financial consultation
Cra 43A No. 7 - 50 Ocina 1501 Tower Financial Dann Carlton Poblado Tel: 268 1133 - 314 825 4018 www.montzupoligraa.com @montzupoligraa Montzu Polygraphy
Toucan Dance A new dance and music experience in Medellin. We are a space that facilitates cultural exchange through dance, a universal language that creates bonds and breaks downs barriers. Join us to improve your salsa skills. Try a FREE introduction class. Dance@toucanexperience.com 034 3117176 +57 302 2941597 Carrera 41a # 10-42 El Poblado
Toucan Spanish School
Study Spanish at one of South America's largest Spanish schools. If you're looking to immerse in the Colombian culture whilst improving your Spanish language skills Toucan Spanish will give you the necessary tools. Sign up today for classes in Medellin, Cartagena or Bogota. Professional school – Native teachers – Language exchanges – Free daily activities – Classes at all levels spanishschool@toucanexperience.com 034 3117176 +57 317 3630087 Carrera 41a # 10 -28 El Poblado
Rent a particular car now Rent a car between particulars Easy, fast and safe Always rent for hours Book now! +57 311 395 5223 +57 323 489 2000 +57 323 489 1999 info@reizenconnections.com www.reizenconnections.com @reizenconnections
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Expat Group Co Inmigration Services Colombia Visa / Foreign ID Relocation Specialized advice Accounting and legal services Real States Solutions Business in Colombia Startup Companies
+57 350 8948130 info@expatgroup.co ExpatGroupCo
Tree Gana Hostal Paradise Between the Darien jungle and the Caribbean Sea. Come and discover Colombia according to your wishes. turquoise waters, glaciers, mountains, crystalline rivers, jungle, colonial villages, at the same time as enjoying activities you like.
treeganahostal@gmail.com www.aaecoturismo.com +33 675 71 94 22 +57 321 244 95 29
Hostel Maria Moñitos Come and discover the magic of the unexplored Caribbean! In Maria Moñitos Hostel you can visit: Isla Fuerte, Reserva Natural Viento Solar, Valle de los monos, Manglares y Ciénaga Caño Grande. Open: 24/7 Carrera 2, vía la playa, Sector Cacagual, Pueblito Moñitos - Córdoba CO @mariamonitoshostel +57 300 438 1736
Domestic Cleaning Service We offer domestic cleaning service. All our employees are highly trained and selected under a security filter that includes (polygraph test and home visit). We have 4 and 8 hour services throughout the metropolitan area. Cra 43A No. 7 - 50 Oficina 1501 Torre Financiera Dann Carlton - Poblado, Medellín Tel: 266 61 78 - 313 558 3006 www.lasmagnificas.com.co LasMagnificas - Servicio Limpieza
Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour Join us on the daily tour and discover the turbulent history and miraculous transformation of Comuna 13, once the most dangerous neighborhood in Medellin. comuna13tours@gmail.com http://www.comuna13tours.com/ @comuna13tours +573016674731
Elemental Glocal SPANISH SCHOOL Not all classrooms have four walls! Do you want to learn spanish and get to know the city of Medellín? With us, you will experience both at the same time. It´s Elemental, Glocal thinking! Mariana Moreno Pérez (+57) 321 849 67 45 elementalglocal@gmail.com @eglocal
Café Chuapa For each purchase of a (17,6 oz) bag of coffee or pack of single serve drip filters, café chuapa will donate 1000 pesos to a sustainability project. Our goal: plant 1 million trees in Ayapel Cienaga. www.cafechuapa.com +57 319 774 19 37 @cafechuapa @cafechuapa
Rent Cabins in Guatapé Rent can be daily, weekly or monthly. These are located near tourist places such as: La Piedra del Peñol, La Replica del Viejo Peñol and the town of Guatapé. The rent includes an unmotorized boat and a kayak. Prices start from $ 40 USD per night. @airbnbguatape https://es.airbnbcom/rooms/36355290
General Medicine Practice in Ciudad del Rio near Industriales Metro Station. House calls, STD screening, Prescription renewals and Lab services. Regular schedule: Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. https://englishspeakingdoctormedellin.com/ Calle 19a # 44 - 25 Torre Salud y Servicios, Ciudad del Rio, Office 2401, 24th floor
Dr Felipe Muñoz Plastic and reconstructive surgeon, member from The Colombian Society of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and International member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
https://plasticsurgeryinmedellin.com/ dr.felipemunoz@gmail.com +57 310 4097525 Cra. 25a # 1A Sur - 45, Medellín, Antioquia Torre Medica, Comercial El Tesoro office 2026
Our staff speaks fluent English. Contact us for fast, personalized and professional service.
+ 57 3006118015 +1 9548376512
Sousa Spa y Belleza Transitions provides culturally astute counseling services in English to the expat community of Medellin. Jenna Stanfield is an MA, Registered Psychotherapist in the sate of Colorado, USA, with a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and is particularly passionate about working with the globally mobile community
Transitionscounselingandconsulting (+57) 316 350 3006
Ambroxia Beauty Salon Great Atmosphere. Clean & Cool Vibe from this modern cozy place & stylists. Vladimir is an awesome hairdresser who speaks great English. Book an appointment for a unique experience. +57 314 6904603
Sousa Spa offers a natural environment and Brazilian essence. Enjoy a unique experience in the best spa in Medellín. 200 m² of space in a modern and contemporary atmosphere. The Sousa Spa is located on the first floor of the Manilla House Hotel. Natural Tranquility Calle 13 43d 56 | 1 piso del hotel Manila House, Medellín Tel – 2661889 +57 301 6255947 Sousa Spa y Belleza Sousa Spa y Belleza
Go Colombia Medical Let us assist you with all forms of cosmetic surgery, non-surgical options like Botox®, laser, fillers and more. We also facilitate eye-care, LASIK, hair restoration, joint replacement, general surgical and non-surgical treatments. Contact us Today for a Complimentary Mini-Consultation
GoColombiaMedical +1-954-284-8600
Calle 8 # 37a-37 (Parque Lleras – Poblado)
GoColombiaMedical.com
Ambroxia Beauty Salon
Keith@GoColombiaMedical.com
Ambroxia Beauty Salon
Medellín Bus Terminals The Medellín North Bus Terminal
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erminal Norte has 54 ticket windows with many different bus companies that provide service to over 120 destinations in Colombia. Some of the more popular destinations served from this terminal include: Abejorral
Guatapé
Barranquilla
Medellín’s José María Córdova Airport
Bogotá
Rio Claro
Bucaramanga
Rionegro
Cartagena El Carmen de Viboral
San Carlos Santa Fe de Antioquia You can see a complete list of destinations from Terminal Norte on the TerminalsMedellin website. Terminal Norte Address: Carrera 64C # 78-580, Medellín Phone: (034) 444 80 20 – Ext. 15
The Medellín South Bus Terminal
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his bus terminal has 49 ticket windows with many different bus companies that provide service to over 90 destinations in Colombia. Some of the more popular destinations served from this terminal include: Abejorral Armenia Bogotá Cali Jardín Manizales You can see a complete list of destinations from Terminal Sur on the TerminalsMedellin website. Terminal Sur Address: Carrera 65 # 8B-91, Medellín Phone: (034) 444 80 20 – Ext. 171
Medellín’s José María Córdova Airport Pereira Popayan Salento