An expat’s guide to living in Medellín, Colombia — since 2009
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Articles tagged culture on Medellin Living — Medellín expat guides and stories.

22 article(s)

Bucaramanga: Discovering the Food, Nightlife and Culture of Eastern Colombia

March 19, 2026

Writer’s note: This is part one of a two-part story. BUCARAMANGA — The plane landed on a plateau overlooking the city, a beautiful view common in Colombia but still breathtaking every time. I have wanted to go to…

Your Guide to Teatro Pablo Tobón Uribe

February 13, 2020

Teatro Pablo Tobón Uribe is one of the city’s largest theaters and plays host to an array of different cultural events.

The Advantages of Growing Old in Medellín

May 16, 2019

As Medellín becomes more popular with young travelers making their way through South America, what about the older generation of ex-pats who have lived in Colombia for many years? Or those considering moving to retire…

Where to Find Spanish Classes in Medellin [2019 Update]

April 22, 2019

There are many options available to foreigners seeking Spanish classes in Medellin.

Cultural Differences Between Paisas and Americans

March 26, 2019

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…

Spanish Classes in Medellín at Centro Interactivo de Español

November 4, 2014

Ryan takes a closer look at the Centro Interactivo de Español, a great place to take Spanish classes in Medellín for all the foreigners in the city.

Women’s Fashion in Medellín

August 21, 2014

Melissa’s handpicked LookBook for women’s fashion in Medellín, including a variety of day and night outfits.

Centro Plazarte: A Cultural Exchange of Talents

August 13, 2014

Tucked away in a historic neighborhood, the Centro Plazarte in Medellín is a cultural center developed to revive the area with stunning Roman architecture.

Medellin Events: February

February 4, 2014

A list of Medellin Events for February 2014, including local concerts, sporting events, meet-ups, and more.

Feria de Cali: Celebration, Salsa and So Much More

January 21, 2013

CALI — Giuseppe got overzealous with the spray foam. He hit a little kid in the face. He felt bad and apologized. He didn’t realize revenge was coming. The caleñito, no more than 7 or 8 years old, eventually swiped the…

Playa Almejal and a Peek at the Pacific Coast

December 12, 2012

PLAYA ALMEJAL, Chocó — The waves whisper as they wash up ashore, their way of calling you to the ocean, to swim, to surf, to sit under the sun. Our front yard was the waters of Playa Alemejal, without much else around,…

Day Trip to Nevado del Ruiz

April 16, 2012

Writer’s Note: This is part one of a two-part story. MANIZALES — Almost everyone wants to see the flag. It’s one of the main attractions as you meander toward the top of the highest volcano in Parque Nacional Natural…

Easter in Colombia

April 9, 2012

They pray. They party. That’s what happens in Colombia during Semana Santa, or Holy Week as it translates to English. It starts on the Wednesday leading up to Easter Sunday, when lots of people leave for their fincas.…

Crafts, Games and Music in Downtown Medellín

March 21, 2012

The park fills up, quickly. This is the first Saturday of every month at Parque Bolívar, where the Mercado de San Alejo draws paisas and tourists looking for bags to bracelets to dresses, even tables, chairs and other…

San Gil, Chicamocha and Barichara

February 20, 2012

Writer’s note: This is part two of a two-part story. Click here to read part one. SAN GIL, Santander — The two-lane road winds through the Cordillera Oriental mountain range and climbs toward what has to be one of the…

The 33rd International Theater Festival of Manizales

October 19, 2011

I have been studying with a private tutor, reading books, listening to the radio, watching movies and attempting conversations with several people at my job, but nothing was about to prepare me for the 10 hours per day…

De Ida y Vuelta at Restaurant Herbario

September 19, 2011

I have been to several place since arriving in Medellin. But, De Ida y Vuelta is by far the best cultural find so far. Restaurant Herbario in Poblado, owned by two long-time friends by the name of Carlos, who are also…

Buñuelos, Natilla & the Music of December

December 21, 2010

December in Colombia means lots of fireworks, partying, kids and adults on vacation, Christmas lights everywhere, and a few other traditions. Buñuelos are round, deep-fried cheese fritters. They’re akin to a soft,…

Myths and Legends Parade

December 14, 2010

The fireworks and early evening parties of November 30th unofficially kicked off a month of Christmas celebrations. One week later, the Myths and Legends parade (Desfile de Mitos y Leyendas) took place on the eve of the…

Video of The Frugal Traveler Touring Colombia

August 26, 2010

A few months ago, there was a changing of the guard at The New York Times, and Seth Kugel took over the role of Frugal Traveler from Matt Gross. Evidently, Seth is kicking off his new position with a multi-month journey…

A Few Insights Into The Colombian Culture

August 12, 2009

This is truly my first time traveling outside of the United States, so I’m noticing quite a few things about Colombian culture that are different to me. These things are definitely not bad, and mostly entertaining. The…

Great Insights Into Colombian Culture

July 7, 2009

Just as in many Latin countries, the Paisas are frequently late. They may tell you 7:00PM but do not expect to see them until 7:30 to 7:45. No matter how much you complain, you will not change their culture so just get…