General
Articles about General from Medellin Living — expat guides, news and first-hand experience in Medellín, Colombia.
Strolling the Stalls at Medellín’s Farmer’s Markets
Medellin is such a biodiverse country in the world. Please don’t leave without first giving a farmer’s markets tour around Medellin. So put your shoes on and get a taste of exotic fruits and vegetables that you’ll only…
Laureles’ Top Organic Grocery Stores
Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in terms of fruits and vegetables. There are more than 400 native fruit species in the country. You could even eat a different fruit every day of the year if you set your…
Where to Buy Sustainable Clothes in Medellín
In Colombia, sustainable clothing has made its way through green cities such as Medellin. The need to create an environmental impact and promote conscious consumption of garments has become more popular. No need to…
The Best Places to Go Horseback Riding in Medellín
Tired of touring Medellin on traditional means of transport? Then you should try enjoying the stunning landscapes and beautiful mountains on horse riding. Horseback riding tours in Medellin are a family-friendly…
Everything You Need to Know About the 2022 Flower Festival
Colombia is one of the world’s top flower farming countries. In fact, there are more than 1400 species of flowers grown here, of which the most popular are roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums. To commemorate this…
All About the Pedro Nel Gómez House Museum
Although in Medellin you can find a lot of outdoor activities, booming nightlife, and friendly people, you’ll always find an enriching experience in one of the city’s many museums. One of those museums is the Pedro Nel…
The Burrito Lover’s Guide to Medellín
Looking for a place to eat a good Mexican burrito in Medellin? We hear you. Whether you hail from Mexico itself or are just a fan of authentic Central American meals, there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a…
Get Your Workout on at the Best Gym in Medellin
While food is one of life’s pleasures, you can’t forget to work out every now and then. Even if you’re only spending a few weeks in Medellin, you can always try something new at one of the city’s gyms. Now, while there…
Where to Get a Cheap Massage in Laureles, Medellin
Walking through the City of Eternal Spring can be tough on your body. Since it’s a place full of adventures and extreme sports, the trip can leave you with slight back or ankle pain. Trust me, I would know. I can’t tell…
How Many Days Should You Stay in Medellin?
Medellin is becoming a popular tourist destination, despite its rocky history. Today, it’s a thriving hub where you’ll find booming business and plenty of fun activities. The trouble is, with so much to enjoy, it can be…
Covid Tests, Rules, and Regulations in Medellin: What You Need to Know
The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, and it’s hard to know for sure when we’ll win the battle against the coronavirus. In spite of this, countries have started relaxing the rules for traveling, and it’s now much…
Uber Banned in Colombia: What Happened & Alternative Rideshare Apps
Update: On February 20th, Uber returned to Colombia after finding “alternative” means to operate in the country. As of midnight January 31st, 2020, the ride-sharing app Uber will not function in Colombia. The decision…
Uber Banned in Colombia: What Happened & Alternative Rideshare Apps
Update: On February 20th, Uber returned to Colombia after finding “alternative” means to operate in the country. As of midnight January 31st, 2020, the ride-sharing app Uber will not function in Colombia. The decision…
Medellin Living 2019 Reader Survey
It’s been three years since we last asked you what you want to know about Medellín and what you enjoy most (and least) about Medellin Living blog, and to say that the blog and the city had changed in those years would…
Your Guide to Tattoos in Medellín
Whether you’re on the metro, in a tienda or wandering the streets of Medellín, you’re likely to spot plenty of tattoos on the locals. The city is known for its street art and creative community, and Paisas love to…
Things to Do in Medellín on Wednesdays
Wednesday. The day before Thursday, which is the day before Friday, and therefore a sign that you’re close to the end of the working week. Or maybe you’re lucky enough to be traveling and Wednesday is simply another day…
Things to Do in Medellín on Thursdays
The City of Eternal Spring is never short of activities and events taking place all through the week. So, if you’re not in town over a weekend, don’t worry – there’s still plenty to keep you entertained. While Thursdays…
Free Things to Do in Medellín
Medellín is packed with tons of exciting activities to keep visitors entertained – from picturesque parks, cultural museums, salsa dancing, community tours and a vibrant nightlife, the City of Eternal Spring is never…
The History of Medellín
Medellín’s past is filled with rich culture and significant transformations. Colombia’s second-biggest city is no stranger to turbulent times, however, Medellín’s ability to recover and progress is what gives it such an…
Safety in Medellín – Tips for Expats (2019 Update)
Colombia has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, however, the country still has a somewhat negative international reputation. The combination of a half-century civil war, mass cocaine production…
The House Where Pablo Escobar was Killed: Narco-Tourism or an Important Symbol?
Medellín’s dark past tends to dominate its international reputation – even more so with shows like Narcos dramatizing (inaccurately) the reign of drug lord, Pablo Escobar. While the TV series depicts a suave criminal,…
Medellín’s Transformation: The City’s Past & New Story
Once labeled the ‘most dangerous city in the world’, Medellín has undergone a significant transformation. Now a must-visit location on any South America itinerary, the city has taken several measures to change not only…
The Top Pet-Friendly Places in Medellín
The weather, abundance of green spaces and culture in Medellín make it the perfect city to own a pet – plus vet costs and general expenses like food tend to be much cheaper here than compared to the U.S or Europe. While…
A comparison between Medellin and Bogota
Would you love to live in Colombia? If yes, which is a better Colombian city to live in between Medellin and Bogota? If you ask the locals, everyone is biased depending on where he or she comes from. If you ask the…
The Best Places For Women’s Beauty in Medellín
From hair to nails, waxes to massages, finding a trusted beauty source can take months, even years – and if you decide to visit or live in another country, the process starts all over again. One of the downsides of…
Cultural Differences Between Paisas and Americans
While the U.S and Colombia may share the same land mass (albeit 2,622 miles apart), they can certainly feel like totally separate worlds. Differences in language, currency and weather are obvious between the two, but…
Digital Nomad Guide Medellín Ebook Review
A review of a digital nomad guide Medellin ebook, including tips on where to live, work and eat in Medellin
2017 Update: How to Buy and Use Colombian Cell Phones
Regulations have changed in Colombia so we update a very popular article about how buy and use Colombian cell phones.
2017 Update: Medellín Cost of Living for a Couple
The Colombian peso exchange rate has improved compared to the period before 2015, making the Medellín cost of living now cheaper in terms of US dollars.
Weather and Climate in Medellín: The City of Eternal Spring
We look at the weather in Medellín in detail including temperature range, temperature in different neighborhoods, typical rainfall and humidity in the city.
The Women Entrepreneurs of Medellín: A Group Moving Women, Ideas and Businesses
The Women Entrepreneurs of Medelliín group has over four hundred members and constant meetups to bring local and foreign women together to share and develop ideas and create a community!
2017 Update: Exchanging Money and Avoiding Counterfeits in Colombia
This 2017 update of a popular post looks at the best ways for exchanging money in Colombia as well as avoiding counterfeits.
15 Best Mobile Apps to Use in Medellín
We look at several of the best mobile apps for traveling to and living in Medellín and help you navigate around the city.
2017 Update on Security in Medellín With Safety Tips for Expats
We look at security in Medellín including homicide statistics, crime statistics by neighborhood plus provide safety tips for expats.
Medellín Living 2016 Reader Survey Results
We provide the survey results of Medellín Living’s first ever reader survey. There are a number of surprising takeaways from this survey.
Medellín Living Reader Survey 2016
Medellín Living is running our first ever reader survey to get to know our readers better and find out how to improve the site. Please help us by responding
Göra: Medellín’s First Open Downtown Makerspace
Göra is a new makerspace downtown made for creatives, innovators, artists and curious people in Medellín. They provide equipment to build your ideas.
Buying a Security Door in Medellín for Improved Home Security
Home security is important in Medellín and Jeff looks at buying a security door for improved security and improved peace of mind.
Siembra Coworking on Calle 10
Siembra is a new coworking space located on Calle 10 in Poblado, near cafes, restaurants and public transportation. They’ve been open for almost two months and are focused on intercultural, interdisciplinary coworking…
Los Clásicos: Authentic Old-School Barber Shop in Laureles
Los Clásicos is an authentic old-school Laureles barber shop opened by a Colombian-American barber. They specialize in scissor cuts and hot towel shaves with a great neighborhood feel.
Vendiste App: Competing with MercadoLibre on Android
In July, two Colombian entrepreneurs launched the Vendiste app, a new Android app to help connect local buyers and sellers of things and services.
El Gran Clóset: Cocreating in a Community
El Gran Clóset is the first couture coworking space in Medellín. It’s an ideal area for designers and fashion aficionados that want to be completely immersed in the development and productive process of their brand.…
AIM Network: Shark Tank Meets Medellín
The AIM Network offers Medellín-based entrepreneurs the chance to get real-world experience pitching potential investors. Attendance is free and open.
La Casa Redonda: Co-working in Laureles
Located in Laureles, La Casa Redonda is one of Medellín’s newest co-working spaces in the city. Ximena takes us on a tour.
6 Things to Consider Before Moving a Startup to Medellín
As Medellín continues to attract entrepreneurs and startups, it’s important to keep in mind some of the pro’s and con’s of working in the city.
10 Surprisingly Cheap Things in Medellín (2016 Update)
The exchange rate for the peso hit an all time high so we revisit one of the most popular posts to see the impact on surprisingly cheap things in Medellín.
Inflation Hit a Seven-Year High in Colombia in 2015
Jeff looks at inflation in Colombia and the impacts to the cost of living and strategies you can take to avoid the impacts of inflation.
Updated Cost of Living in Medellín for a Couple (2016)
The exchange rate for the Colombian peso has greatly improved recently making the cost of living now much cheaper in Medellín in terms of US dollars.
Medellín Living’s Year in Review (2015)
A look back at the most read, shared, and discussed stories published on Medellín Living in 2015.
Colombians of Saskatoon: Father Ciro
Ximena introduces us to Father Ciro, another Colombian of Saskatoon, Canada, who speaks about his experience as an immigrant and community leader.
Patricia Fuel Explains Parque E
Patricia Fuel is the Director of Parque E, an entrepreneurship platform in Medellinnovation. She tells us about their role in city entrepreneurship.
Colombians of Saskatoon: Erni Ramos
During a trip to Canada, Ximena grew curious to find out about Colombian communities outside the country. This is Erni Ramos’ Story.
Colombia: A Nation of Festivos
We Colombians love our holidays, or festivos, but do we always know what it is we’re celebrating? Here’s the 411 on Colombia’s national holidays.
Filing Taxes in Colombia
Tax time for filing 2014 personal income tax returns in Colombia is fast approaching and Jeff covers many of the details of filing taxes in Colombia.
Socializing in Medellín: A Spanish Survival Guide
In order to socialize in Medellín, Spanish isn’t enough. The secret lies in knowing the local slang. Here’s a quick Colombian Spanish survival guide.
Marriage Visa: How to Get a TP-10 Visa in Colombia
A step by step guide to getting a TP-10 Marriage Visa in Colombia.
What’s New In the Medellín Guide v1.12
Highlights and new features from the latest version of the Medellín Guide iPhone app, including Uber integration, a currency converter and event calendar.
We’re Not in Kansas Anymore: A Colombian Story of Return
Monica is a Colombian-American who has been living in Kansas for 15 years. This is her Colombian Story of Return which brought both shock and comfort.
Online Harassment: My Experience with Cyberstalking in Colombia
A story highlighting the growing trend of online harassment and how it is affecting one expat in Medellín, Colombia, along with tips to protect yourself.
Iglesia Jesús Nazareno and “Street of the Dead”
Iglesia Jesús Nazareno is one of the most beautiful churches in Medellín. It is located along “Street of the Dead” where most funerals are held in the city.
Bancolombia’s Headquarters, a LEED Gold Certified Building
Bancolombia is the largest bank in Colombia and the distinctive Bancolombia headquarters complex is located in Medellín near the Industriales metro station.
SocialNnovation Tour: Innovation and Memory in Comuna 13
Ximena experiences Colombia Travel Operator’s SocialNnovation tour, which takes her from downtown Medellín to comuna 13.
8 Expensive Things in Medellín
Colombia has a reputation for its low cost of living, however, this article highlights eight expensive things in Medellín compared to the United States.
Real City Tours: The #1 Free Walking Tour
Real City Tours offer the #1 rated free walking tour of Medellín on TripAdvisor. The guides have bulit a stellar reputation for their tours in recent years.
Pielroja: The Story Behind ColTabaco’s Bestselling Cigarette
A graphic telling of Colombia’s history in the production of Tobacco and the specific brand Pielroja.
How to Use a Notary in Colombia
Jeff explains how to use Notaries in Colombia for documents used in Colombia as well as getting document notarized in Colombia for use in the United States.
Updated: Cost of Living in Medellín for a Couple (2015)
The exchange rate for the Colombian peso has improved recently making the cost of living now much cheaper in Medellín in terms of U.S. dollars.
Medellín Living’s Editorial Policy
An explanation of Medellín Living’s editorial policy, including the importance of reader feedback and transparency.
Medellín Movie Theater Guide
Going to the movies is a popular outing for Colombians and several movie theaters in Medellín have ticket prices cheaper than in the United States.
Edificio Inteligente EPM: A Model of Progress and Innovation
Edificio Inteligente EPM, Medellín’s public utilities services headquarters, is dedicated to improving the city through social and community projects.
10 Surprisingly Cheap Things in Medellín
Jeff looks at 10 surprisingly cheap things in Medellín, which contribute to the low cost of living in the city.
Social Entrepreneurship: Building Businesses for the Community
Dave attends an event showcasing two dozen social entrepreneurship projects in Medellín, and profiles one, Dibujaguja, in detail.
Medellín Living’s Year in Review (2014)
A look back at Medellín Living in 2014, featuring the most popular posts, and a handpicked selection of other popular stories.
How to Buy and Use Cell Phones in Colombia
Jeff explains how to buy and use cell phones in Colombia, including looking at the major providers and the best places to buy.
Colombian Currency, Avoiding Counterfeits and Exchanging Money
Jeff looks at Colombian currency in circulation and also avoiding counterfeits plus exchanging money in Colombia.
Medellín Guide: Now Available in App Store
The Medellín Guide is a free iPhone app featuring the best of Medellín, Colombia, including restaurants, cafés, nightlife, attractions and accommodation.
Advice for Staying Safe in Medellín
Ryan gives us an updated post about staying safe in Medellín after hearing about recent stories from expats in the city. His common-sense tips can help you.
Cable TV and Internet Providers in Medellín
There are two major TV and Internet providers in Medellín that offer triple play TV, Internet and phone services: Claro and UNE.
Edificio Coltejer: Medellin’s Iconic Skyscraper
A look at the history and relevance of the iconic Coltejer Tower in downtown Medellín.
Plaza Mayor Convention and Exhibition Center
The Plaza Mayor Convention and Exhibition Center is positioning itself as the continent’s main business center for the major events of Colombia.
Cost of Living in Medellín for a Couple
Jeff shares the cost of living in Medellín, Colombia he has experienced for a couple living together in Medellín over the past year.
Is Medellín at Risk for a Major Earthquake?
Despite being part of the Andean system, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, Medellín is not a high risk candidate for earthquakes or their damage.
Introducing the New Team at Medellín Living
In order to better service readers, Medellín Living is adding seven new writers to contribute original stories over the next three months.
Palenque Tours: Medellín’s History of Transformation
To tell Medellín’s story from the Pablo Escobar-era to the present day, German-owned Palenque Tours created the Medellín’s History of Transformation tour.
Now Hiring: Staff Writer
Medellin Living, the number one tourism blog for the city of Medellín, Colombia, is looking to add a new Staff Writer.
Why Medellin Is Attracting Young Innovators From Around the World
Last year Colombia’s GDP grew 4.3 percent and it overtook Argentina as Latin America’s third largest economy.
Take a Ride with Medellín City Services
Medellín City Services is a Colombian-owned tour company offering half day and full day trips in and around Medellín, Colombia.
How to Become a Patron of Medellín Living
Last month Medellín Living launched a Patreon campaign to begin accepting reader donations. Supporters earn special rewards for as little as $1 per month.
How to Get a Tax Number, Business Name, and Bank Account
How to get your NIT (tax number), register a business name, and opening a bank account in Medellín with your passport (no work visa/cedula necessary).
Online Taxman: An American CPA Specializing in Expat Taxes
Founded by Vincenzo Villamena, a CPA, Online Taxman is a tax preparation service focused on helping American expats prepare and file their US taxes.
Expat Advice: 3 Ways to Make Your Life in the City More Enjoyable
A guest post filled with expat advice to help you make your life in Medellin, Colombia a little easier and more enjoyable.
A Look Back at Medellin Living in 2013
A recap of the best and most popular blog posts published on Medellin Living in 2013.
6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Coming To Medellin
A guest post highlighting six things the author wished he knew before traveling to Medellin, Colombia.
AbracaZebra: Hire a Helping Hand in the City
AbracaZebra is a personal services business offering high quality support for Colombians without a lot of free time, as well as foreigners new to the city.
Travel Plans for the Next 6 Months
Late last year, I shared a list of places I wanted to explore upon my return to Colombia. Despite taking it easy this year, I’ve still seen about half of them, including Bucaramanga, San Gil, and several pueblos. Now…
September Hiatus
Dave will be taking a hiatus from writing for Medellin Living in September, in order to focus on co-writing his next book, a travel guide to Lima, Peru.
Motorcycling Colombia
Justin Cohen’s experience motorcycling Colombia on a Kawasaki KLR 650, with a primary route along the northern Caribbean coast.
Not So Fast: Car Rental with a Poor Driving Record
The thing to remember is that while a poor driving record can hinder your ability to rent a car, it is not a definite deal breaker.
Dear Google RSS Readers
To everyone reading Medellin Living through Google Reader, this service is being closed by Google as of July 1, 2013. That’s next Monday! In order to continue receiving all the awesome new stories from Medellin Living,…
How Would Living in Mexico Compare to Colombia?
Using the same 10 criteria Ryan used to size up Montevideo and Mendoza, here are my initial thoughts on a broader comparison, living in Mexico v Colombia.
Average Cost of Living in Medellin (3 Months)
As promised, this is the follow-up to my original cost of living article in February. This one includes data for the first three months of 2013. For details behind each of the categories, as well as my overall standard…
Favorite Colombian Vacations of 2012
Paisas often ask me if I have been to places in Colombia outside Medellín and my answer is a resounding, “Yes!” I tell them their country is so beautiful, I want to get to know all of it. I took a big step toward doing…
Where to Stay in Zona Cafetera (the Coffee Triangle)
A must-do whilst visiting Colombia is to pay a visit to the Zona Cafetera, south of Medellin and comprised of the area between the cities of Manizales, Armenia, and Pereira. In a country where coffee is king, you just…
6 Tourist-Friendly Destinations in Colombia
After quite a long time of being off the travel radar, Colombia is back in the game. There are few countries that have the mix of attractions that Colombia has. Stunning rainforests, metropolitan cities, idyllic…
Cost of Living in Medellin, Colombia
The cost of living in Medellin, Colombia has always been a big draw for me. The quality of life, for the cost, is hard to beat, in my humble opinion. I’m often asked how much money one needs to live comfortably here,…
Road Trips in Colombia
Colombia has received some bad press in years past, but now it’s settling down and starting to attract increasing numbers of visitors eager to experience the wide range of cultural and natural attractions this dynamic…
The Most Popular Posts of 2012
As we close the final days of the year, I wanted to share the most popular posts published on Medellin Living in the last 12 months. 1. Pablo Escobar Trailer: “Escobar, El Patron del Mal” 2. Bogota vs. Medellin:…
Exploring Colombia: 5 New Places I Want to Visit in 2013
Now that I’ve committed to Colombia for the first three months of 2013, I’ve been thinking about the new places I want to visit most next year. Believe it or not, there’s still a ton of places I have yet to explore in…
Full Circle: Kicking Off 2013 in Medellin
“Two weeks isn’t enough,” I kept saying to myself and friends while visiting Medellin this past September. I’d returned after a year away, having traveled much of South America, as planned. I even spent 6 months living…
5 Undiscovered Caribbean Beaches
The Caribbean region easily boasts some of the finest beaches on the planet and unfortunately, everyone knows it. Fighting to stake a claim on a beach teeming with tourists can detract from a relaxing vacation and leave…
A Colombian Retirement Story
People know. Every month I meet more foreigners who have already moved to Medellín or are here on vacation and want to return for good (or at least for a longer time). I thought it might make for a good short feature…
My Podcast Interview with the Amateur Traveler
I recently sat down with Chris Christensen of the Amateur Traveler to talk about Medellin, and why the city appealed to me, and what it has to offer visitors. Chris’ travel podcast has been downloaded over one million…
Medellin, The Silicon Valley Of South America
This is a guest post by Conrad Egusa. In October 2012 my co-founder, Edinson Alberto Arrieta Aguas, and I launched a co-working space/entrepreneurial center called ESPACIO to help turn Medellin into the Silicon Valley…
Top 5 Things to Do in Colombia
Colombia is such a huge, awe-inspiring country that it’s hard to narrow its multitude of attractions down to a handful of ‘best things’ to do. But most visitors here only have from a few days to a few weeks at their…
The Expat Life
During my first six months in Medellin, I was peppered with one question over and over again. What do you do with yourself every day? My eyes always lit up at the question, because I would then rattle off a list of…
A Very Colombian Birthday
Writer’s note: This is Part 1 of a two-part story. BUCARAMANGA — You didn’t think that dinner at Puerto Inka was going to be it, did you? If you did, you haven’t learned much about me this past year. What kind of travel…
On Returning to Medellin After 12 Months Away
As soon as my AeroGal flight from Lima dipped below the cloudline, exposing the green mountains and rolling hills of Antioquia, I began to wonder how I could ever leave such a beautiful place. But leave I did. Twelve…
Bogota vs Medellin: Choosing Where to Live In Colombia
The following is a guest post by Brice. Bogota vs Medellin. The capital of Colombia versus it’s much loved little sister. I believe it’s a truth in most countries, where the second city has a complex with it’s big…
The Mountain Matchup: Can Mendoza Come Out on Top?
Writer’s note: This is Part 2 of a two-part story. Click here for Part 1. This post was updated on Jan. 1, 2014. MENDOZA, Argentina — The mountains west of Mendoza made me think about a familiar view from home. But…
Colombia’s “Second City” vs Uruguay’s “First”: Who Wins?
Writer’s note: This is Part 1 of a two-part story. MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay — The traces of the yearly trade from green to red and gold garnishes Pocitos, an eastern city neighborhood that immediately reminded me of…
Cartagena to Medellín, Five Years in Between
The arrival felt surreal. It wasn’t that hot sticky weather — I had a lot of that growing up in Hawaii and living in Florida. But after my plane left the Sunshine State then 2 ½ hours later made its final descent into…
Colombia Welcomes You to South America
South America always had an allure, something that beckoned. During my seven years in Florida, learning Spanish and living outside the United States nagged at me more than mosquitoes in the summertime, and I knew there…
What I Miss About Medellin
The things I miss about Medellin are the same things that caused me to fall so hard for the city in the first place.
Colombia Launches Official Travel Blogger Program
This morning in Bogota, a new official blogger program for Colombia is being announced. And I’m excited to be a part of it. Lead by Proexport, the organization responsible for promoting tourism in Colombia, the program…
Guide to Buying a Cell Phone in Colombia, Part 2
Editors note: this post is out-of-date and was updated in 2014. The first time around, I explained my experience with buying a cell phone in Colombia and the experiences of the people I knew at the time. But now I want…
Mi Mama Está Loca
The paísas prove every week that they are some of the most entrepreneurial people in the world. Take my friend Juanes, for example. He decided he wanted to start his own business, something that could help his fellow…
The Most Popular Posts of 2011
In 2011, Medellin Living solidified its position as the #1 blog for Colombia’s City of the Eternal Spring. Visits to the site tripled over 2010, thanks in big part to a host of contributors who helped fill in the gaps…
My (Colombia) Year in Review
Hola amigos, es Dave otra vez. I hope you’ve been enjoying Ryan’s adventures in Antioquia while I’ve been off exploring Ecuador and Peru. I had another amazing 6 months in Medellin this year. If you’re new to the blog,…
Guide to Buying a Cell Phone in Colombia
Editors note: this post is out-of-date and was updated in 2014. For a month, I resisted. It was the first time in a dozen years that I did not have a cell phone and I liked it. This might sound silly to you, especially…
Remembering Holly Joan Brittsan
Last week, I learned the sad news that Holly Joan Brittsan, the first regular contributor here at Medellin Living, died as the result of a BASE jumping accident in Utah. She was just 24 years old. In mid-2009, as I was…
Introducing Ryan
Editor’s Note: Ryan, who has contributed a few times already, will be taking over as the lead contributor for Medellin Living. Here’s a little background from the man himself. The trip to Medellín just made the most…
Do You Know Jack? Launch Party
The video that was in this post is no longer available. Before leaving Medellin, I attended the launch party for Jack Magazine, formerly known as The Arepa, and they released a video from the event. Congrats to Robin,…
El Paisa Es El Rey – John Jairo Perez
El Paisa Es El Rey (The Paisa is King) by John Jairo Perez is my latest musical propaganda discovery on YouTube. The number of songs professing the awesomeness of Medellin and the paisas who call it home cannot be…
Tu Olor – Wisin & Yandel
The new video Tu Olor by Wisin & Yandel was shot in Cartagena, Colombia.
Blending In Like A Paisa
Thank goodness for my dark hair and light skin. That combination served me well during my last trip to South America. It has been more than two months since I spent five days in Medellín and the most popular question I…
Colombia’s Place in the South America Backpacking Circuit
The last 12 months of living in Medellin, and traveling around Colombia, have brought me into contact with far more travel bloggers and backpackers than I ever expected. A few were only visiting for a short time, taking…
How to Make International Phone Calls in Colombia
Staying in touch with family and friends at home is an important aspect of extended travel, and living abroad. Since arriving in Colombia, I’ve called home on quite a few occasions, but not often enough to remember the…
Robbed in Medellin
Last Wednesday, I was robbed in Medellin while in a taxi heading west on Calle 33 to renew my tourist visa at the DAS office in barrio Belen. It was 11:20 AM when my taxi came to a halt at a stoplight. We were…
Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Colombia
An ideal destination for backpackers, Colombia has much to offer; whether you are looking for an affordable destination where you can make your money go further (and put off returning to that desk job), want to…
Rio de Janeiro – The City of Samba
Never before have I experienced something like Rio de Janeiro. People have warned me about it, painted pictures for me, advised me and been excited for me. But, until I arrived there I never could have guessed the new…
A Medellin Retirement Story
While most of my travels have brought me in contact with a lot of young back packers, I have come to discover that Medellín has also attracted many older people who are looking not only to retire, but to spend time…
Review: EasyToBook – Online Hotel Reservations
A review of EasyToBook, the popular online hotel reservations website.
Best of Medellin Living 2010
As the year draws to a close, I want to share the best posts from Medellin Living. With the help of a half dozen contributors, we were able to document a wide range of information for people traveling through Colombia,…
Upcoming Travel Plans
Readers of my other travel blog, Go Backpacking, may already know that my 6 months in Colombia are up at the end of December. I timed it this way so I could lessen the amount of time required to return to the country.…
Find Cheap Travel Deals at icelolly.com
Living in Colombia for close to 12 months, I’ve met more people from the United Kingdom (England & Ireland to be specific) than just about any other region. A strong currency, and desire to escape cool and rainy weather…
UK Travel & Ski Insurance
Boasting over 2 million insured customers per year, Travelinsurance.co.uk offers UK residents (defined as persons living within the UK for 6 of the last 12 months) a comprehensive array of travelling insurance policies…
Take a Break and Visit Breathtaking Brazil
Considering Colombia shares a border with Brazil, it seems prudent that we discuss the plethora of sights to see and things to do in the country. It is, of course, a giant of a country – 8.5 million square kilometers to…
Save Time and Money with Fly.com
No matter how many budget tips or tricks we use, traveling can get awfully expensive. And it’s oftentimes the flight’s fault. In the past year, the AP reported that the average cost of a domestic US flight was $328.…
Arriving in Medellin, One Year Later
A year and three days after leaving Medellin in 2009, I once again rode a shuttle bus from Jose Maria Cordova International Airport down into my favorite semi-tropical valley. Unlike my first visit, I was arriving in…
Introducing Ana
Growing up in a Colombian family I’ve had the chance to visit Medellin a number of times. You’d think that after 11 trips to Medellin I’d get sick of it… NOT A CHANCE! So why am I heading back there? Here’s my story……
2010 Presidential Elections: Colombia Style
Similar to the 2009 presidential election in the United States, the past few weeks have been a race to the finish line for the 2010 Colombian presidential candidates. Yesterday, Colombians had their first (but not…
Discovering Colombia
Two years ago, I was offered a job working with Colombian students who were going to participate in an English immersion program at my university. I was just beginning my graduate studies in TESOL and was happy to…
Launch of Travel Blog Success
Yesterday I announced the launch of Travel Blog Success, a new website and community aimed at helping travelers build successful blogs. Click here to learn more, or sign up. In 2009, my travel blog success resulted in…
2010 Weblog Awards: Vote Medellin Living & Go Backpacking
Medellin Living is one of the 5 finalists for Best Latin American Weblog in the 10th Annual Weblog Awards (aka the 2010 bloggies)! When I arrived in Medellin this time last year, I was immediately struck by the natural…
Medellin Peluquerías
There is something awesome that comes along with the high beauty standards here in Medellin…cheap salons! There are hair/nail salons on every other block. I’ve found that a good nail salon charges about 6,000 COP for…
It’s Always Sunny In Envigado
It seems like my life in Medellin takes a new turn every time I blink. After almost three months of (not very intense) job searching I finally have a job that will keep me securely in Medellin for as long as I want to…
English Discussions in El Poblado
A small cafe in Near Casa Kiwi (in El Poblado) called Tinto Tintero offers free English discussions every Tuesday night at 8pm. The topics are very diverse and can be funny, meaningful, or just intriguing. I have been…
AltaVoz!
AltaVoz is an annual music festival in Medellin. The festival is three days long and hosts artist from around the world from a variety of different genres. This years show had almost 40 different bands. I am still kind…
Hola Everybody!
First I would like to thank Dave for this great opportunity! Hopefully everybody here at MedellinLiving.com will enjoy reading my posts and I hope to hear back from you guys as well. My name is Cathy and I am a…
Hard Realities While on the Road
Two things can bring my adventurous and curious nature to a screeching halt. Death is one of them. Family is the other. Both of them have stirred things up for me. My posts had gone to nil because I was pretty much…
First Impressions of Medellin
My friend Casey just posted his first impressions of Medellin on his Panama blog. As I read it, I realized he’s not just a savvy business guy, he’s an awesome writer. Be sure to check it out because his observations…
Win A Free Trip To Colombia
I recently became aware of a great opportunity to win an all expenses paid trip to Colombia! 6 bloggers have been chosen to represent 6 different countries – the USA, Spain, Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela and Brazil. They…
Blog Update
This is Dave and I’m back in the USA (New York City this weekend, to be specific). Holly is now posting regularly to the blog. The author’s name for a post appears under the title of the post on the website, and in RSS…
Salsa Etiquette
She said “no” – so are you never asking her to dance again? If she says “no” to you and “yes” to another gentleman a minute later, is this really inappropriate or “lame?” — Grace Badillo Now that I’m back in the…
The Jump From Idaho To Colombia
I’m about to start packing my bags for Medellin. Before I leave, I’ve been trying to fit in some of my favorite things to do in my hometown, and saying good-byes to those most important to me. I was most grateful to get…
Read “Dave’s Guide to Medellin Buses” in July’s Arepa
When I met Robin back at The Arepa’s launch party at Melodie Lounge, I pitched a humor piece to him about the experience of riding Medellin’s city buses as a foreigner. Fast forward a few weeks and it’s in the new July…
Reader Comments (fixed)
Hola amigos, The comment system was new to me when I installed it a few months ago, and I didn’t configure it properly. If you left a comment, it was awaiting moderation by me, which is something I hadn’t thought to be…
Introducing Holly
In response to my open call for contributors to this blog, Holly from Idaho (USA) responded. She touches down in Colombia July 28. Her introduction immediately captured my attention, and I’m happy to share a little bit…
Contributors Wanted
Medellin Living began 4 months ago when I decided to settle into life in Colombia. The content has focused on my day-to-day experiences trying to find work teaching English, learning to salsa dance, hanging out with…
Search Travelgrove and Save
The summer travel season is kicking off in the United States and Europe, which means despite the world’s economic troubles, people are heading for the beach or about to take those long desired vacations. According to my…
My Typical Monday
I enjoy my Mondays. I probably won’t be able to say that for long, as they will soon be associated once again with the start of a busy, stressful work week. For now, here’s why I’m happy to see them come around. Sleep…
US Dollar Slides Against Colombian Peso
The Colombian Peso has slowly gained against the US Dollar over the last few months, and my mental calculations for the exchange rate are far too dated! I’m starting to feel the difference in my wallet too – a 20%…
My First Published Article for AskMen.com
Dear readers, I am excited to share my first published article for Ask Men, a popular online men’s lifestyle magazine. The topic is Flashpack Gear and it is running under their Guy Gear column, thus making me a “Digital…
Teaching Update…and The Future
Course Correction I bet you have been wondering why I’ve spent more electronic ink on nightlife and salsa dancing the last few weeks then my trials and tribulations teaching English. The reason is simple….I decided to…
Meet My Roomie
I’ve now been living with Maira and Martin for about 2 months here in Envigado, and since I have yet to go out with Maira for a night on the town, I haven’t taken any photos of her. So I am nicking one from Facebook for…
Meeting Jacob
I met Jacob for a drink at a bar facing Parque Envigado one afternoon. It is about as easy to spot a gringo in public in Colombia as it is in China. There simply aren’t a lot of us around! And that’s the way we like it.…
I am joining the rest of the blogging world by posting micro-updates about my daily activities on Twitter. If you are interested, check out my profile to follow them. If you could care less about what I ate for lunch,…
What’s In My Daypack?
The contents of my daypack have morphed slowly over the last few weeks, as I have made the mental switch from nomadic backpacker interested in seeing the world to Medellin ¨resident¨ interested in learning Spanish and…
Meeting Ken At The Cinema
Henry from Poor But Happy (forum) invited me and Ken out to see The Watchmen last week. I’d been meaning to both introduce myself to Ken, and see a movie in Colombia, so off I went to the theaters near the Suramericana…
Demise Of A USB Stick
The USB memory stick I’d been using for my entire trip around the world since November 2007, mysteriously erased itself. It happened at an internet shop in the Oviedo Mall. I was running software off of it as usual,…
Saturday In Envigado
Saturday was spent recovering from my night out at Blue. It is also cleaning day in the apartment. Maira, Martin and I handle our own rooms, and then rotate cleaning the kitchen, guys’ bathroom, and windows, plus…
Why Did I Travel To Colombia?
The Colombians I meet are often curious to know why I traveled to their country. They are well aware of the world’s perspective, which is why I am usually smiling coyly when I give some variation of the following…
Apartment Search, Couchsurfing, And Networking
Friday turned out to be an exciting day for connecting with new people living in Medellin. First, I had an impromptu meeting with Adriaan, editor-in-chief of Colombia Reports. I learned a little more about how he…
Colombia Reports – English News Site
I ran across Medellin-based Colombia Reports yesterday, and immediately subscribed. They just celebrated their one year anniversary, and based on their objective of independently reporting what happens in the country to…
How I Arrived In Medellin
I am excited at the possibilities for this site, yet before I begin to highlight the aspects of Medellin and Colombia which have lead me to start extolling its virtues, I want to share my story up until now. In November…
The Launch of Medellin Living
Welcome to Medellin Living, a blog dedicated to my experiences living and (trying) to work in Colombia´s City of the Eternal Spring! Stay tuned, as I hope to get this site up and rolling fast. In the meantime, feel free…