How to Travel Colombia

Lifestyle Guide

Jun 9

CALI, MEDELLIN or BOGOTA?

Thats the biggest question we ask ourselves right before we confirm that flight into our next wonderland right? In this guide we will focus on two cities that are most unique but also give two different experiences ENTIRELY. I would suggest Medellin Colombia also known as city of eternal springs being your first choice. But depending on how you travel this will differ, if you like to be swallowed up by the big city with a fast past routine hey hit up Cali do your thang . If you want to be in the capital with a slightly more relaxed environment hit up Bogota, there’s PLENTY of tourism and sight seeing locations there. But if you’re looking for something in the middle, not so much a big city, hot spots and fascinating history behind the neighborhoods, aim for Medellin.

DANGEROUS TURNED TOURISM (MUCH WOW)

like to describe Colombia as a very misunderstood country???? Its horrific past shadows how much of lovely country it truly is. If you’re in the mood to learn how Colombias history and how its Barrio “Neighborhood” was once presumed most dangerous Block in the country now tourist attraction, check out my Buddys at Comuna 13 Tour. They will meet up with you at a subway location and guide you direct to Commune 13. Theres about 16 Districts in Total all very different places but not to be explored alone. Throughout the tour you will be educated and given insight on how the neighbor was and came to be, If you’re into Vlogging or Photography get your camera ready because this area is full of amazing content.

WHERE TO STAY?? WHAT TO DO??

Medellin is divided into two class neighborhoods, 1 being the Poblado or “El Poblado” 2 the Laurales. The Poblado is a up town neighborhood for the middle class and up. If you live, own or rent property or even just staying in a hotel, the locals will consider you a big shot. The Poblado was made to appeal to the tourist comfort, giving access to locals malls,restaurants and bars. Laureles was built for the slower side of town becoming a home for expats, you don’t get that same quick in and out feeling living staying for the week here. In most cases if you’re just visiting for the week, book a stay in the poblado. Theres quite a few places to check out, Colombia offers more than enough day excursions to keep you on your toes.

I went ahead and named a few highlights

PARQUE LLERAS
ART AT PLAZA BOTERO
EL CASTILLO MUSEO Y JARDINES
URBANIA CAFE
MERCADO DEL RIO
PARQUE BERRIO

THERES A FREE TOUR !?

YES! And we all know how we all love free stuff. Take the time in your itinerary to spend 3 hours of your day to learn about the history of Colombia, its famous artist and incredible buildings. Free tour is an amazing service that gets you well rounded and familiar with the country, remember its 3 hours long so wear your walking shoes, you will be walking for quite a while.

Lifestyle-Tip Even though the tour is free sprinkle a tip for their service, they are paid anything to tour travelers for free. ;]

COLOMBIAN (PAISA) FOOD

2 words Bandeja Paisa … so so good but full of carbs haha! Colombian food isn’t built for the week hearted so prepared to eat because the meals are 5 star! The food itself is a representation of the country and its personality. When I first ate the Bandeja Paisa It reminded me of the Brazilian dish Fejuada, its a platter of multiples meats with flattened plantains, beans, rice, salad, most fitness junkies wouldn’t dare try this food. A common snack you will see and would suggest to try is the Colombian Empanada, they run at a equivalent of 56 C USD. Heres a list of other popular Colombian foods you should try, each dish as a region it belongs too.

THE MOST COLORFUL TOWN (GUTAPAE)

Let me tell you of a place thats two hours away from Medellin thats an absolute must see! Guatape, its a small town with a huge personality. Theres a couple ways to get here , but to save your time just take the equivalent of a greyhound bus to reach this destination. Reaching the station to take the bus ON TIME is very important if you want to reach this location, be mindful that its a 2 HOUR DRIVE, so getting to the terminal on time is very important as far as preserving your time. Admission is 16,000 COP. Whether be a half day trip or staying 1 night over, take the time to walk around, eat food with the locals, get some Ice cream and enjoy the area. My first impression of the area felt like Disney Land and I was correct. The locals sometimes get away and spend a few nights in Guatape with family and friends, not to mention the beautiful sight seeing locations like El Penol which is another must see location within Guatape.