MedellÃn is one of the most compelling cities in Colombia, and perhaps its greatest turn-around story. The city, once known for drug violence, has become a safe venue to soak up culture and nightlife, and it has a way of luring visitors into staying longer than they had intended. Travelers can enjoy the Botero-sculpture-filled Parque Barrio to the exclusive bars, restaurants and hotels of El Pobaldo. There is also the cable car that takes you high over the less affluent barrios in MedellÃn, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city. If the bar scene isn’t your thing–though MedellÃn and the friendly nature of the locals may convert you–there are frequently free concerts in the Teatro Metropolitano and a lively arts scene to quench any cultural thirst. If you are in the area in July and August, try to catch the Flower Festival, and once you’ve had your fill, stroll to the Parque de los Pies Descalzos to marvel at modern and inclusive architecture.
By Gary Hoffer I am a sailor and a retired ex computer programmer living in Colombia. I have spent 8 months in Cartagena back in 2001 and now 9 months in Medellin...
It may seem a particularly macabre and even inappropriate activity, but people are making pilgrimages of sorts to the Cemetery of Jardines de Montesacro. Fame is a curious thing, and for this reason,
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Perhaps the most terrifying dish available in Colombia comes from this region. Not terrifying in the nature of the food—it won’t be compared to toasted ants, brains or the like. In truth, it’s
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Considered the lungs of MedellÃn, the JardÃn Botánico JoaquÃn Antonio Uribe is a delightfully leafy and tranquil destination within the confines of the bustling city. The verdant wealth contained
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It is hard to imagine a more delightful and relaxing way to make your daily commute to work than drifting over the rooftops in a cable car. In MedellÃn, this dream for commuters is a reality. Since
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From its inception in 1991 against a backdrop of extreme violence, the MedellÃn international poetry festival has grown from a small event to a national phenomenon. Poets from all over the world
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It is no secret that 80 percent of all cut flowers grown in Colombia are sold to the United States, and the Feria de las Flores shows why. Recognized as the most important and traditional feria in
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On the last Sunday of every month, Inder (Tel: 260-6611) plans hiking trips to rural areas around MedellÃn. The small towns of San Cristóbal, Palmitas, San Antonio de Prado, Santa Elena and
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El Parque de Los Deseos (The Park of Wishes) is described as an open space to observe the universe. Fundación Empresas Públicas de MedellÃn began this work to encourage visitors to lie back and
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El Castillo Museum is often used for fairs and cultural festivals due to its lavish beauty. It is an architectural jewel of gothic medieval design in the style of the French Loire castles. It houses
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In a day, you can cover most of what the old center of MedellÃn has to offer on foot—and there is no better way to see this part of town. Start the day at the BasÃlica Metropolitana de MedellÃn,
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