Medellin Attractions

There is a lot to see and do in Medellin depending upon how long you have to visit the city.

First on your list has to be a visit to Botero Plaza to see the famous Botero Sculptures. While you are there, you may as well take an hour or so and visit the Museum (Museo) de Antioquia adjacent to the park. Bring your camera but keep it strapped to your wrist.

Since you are already downtown, you might as well stroll through the multitude of street vendors, Palacio Nacional and El Hueco shopping areas. Take your time, stop, have a coffee or cold beverage, a bite to eat and just take in the ambiance of being in El Centro. Do be on your guard as it can be crowded and many petty thefts take place (just like any other large city).

If it is a typical beautiful day in Medellin, you might want to ride the Cable Metro up the mountainside to take in the beautiful vistas of looking out over Medellin. At the top, feel free to walk around the area close to the metro station and brouse through the shops, have a coffee or cold beverage and enjoy the afternoons beautiful scenery.

Note: It is recommended that you depart the El Centro area before dark for your safety.

If you have a day and would like to get out of the city, a visit to El Penol rock at Guatape is worth the trip. You can hire a taxi by the hour for the trip. Plan to make frequent stops along the way at La Fe Reservoir, Fizebed farms to see the orchids, make a stop at El Tequendamita waterfalls, buy some hand made and painted pottery in Carmen de Viboral, have lunch in Rio Negro (excellent place to buy handcrafts of all kinds and taste traditional dishes). If you go inside the Banco Santander museum there, you can see the crown delivered to Simon Bolivar, The Liberator, in La Paz, Bolivia. In the next small town of Marinilla, you can watch guitars and other stringed instruments being made.

The Lake (which is actually a man made reservoir created by flooding the old town) itself is beautiful but the “Rock” jutting out of the earth, where it does not seem it should belong is something to behold. Climb to the top via stairs, taking your time along the way for some photos, of some breath taking views of the surrounding valley. There is also a walkway pier along the lake and boats, water bicycles and ferries equipped with music that can be rented to take a tour of the waters.

Pueblito Paisa-Located in the center of Medellin, is a quaint historic traditional pueblito and is a great place to see what life was like in Medellin 100 years ago. The entire pueblito has been maintained in it’s original form including houses, a church, a museum, restaurants and shops. Taste local Paisa dishes, buy handcrafted art works and stroll the city. Good place to have your camera. Any taxi in the city can get you there.

You might also want to consider a day the local zoo where they have over 1,000 species of animals, many indigenous only to Colombia; A day at the Parque de las Aguas (Water Park),

a visit to Estadia, the local stadium and Atanasio Girardot sports complex (has a large Olympic sized swimming pool, tennis courts and more).

Of course, if you are visiting in January, a night at the Bullfights in La Macarena Show Center is a unique experience;

Attending a local Futbol Game, shopping in any of the local upscale malls, visiting museums, the botanical gardens, local parks or just walking around the city make Medellin a fun place to visit.

There is a lot to see and do in Medellin depending upon how long you have to visit the city.

Medellin Hotels

Most people that visit Medellin will stay in the more upscale Poblado Hotels. Many that come to Medellin for conventions like Colombiamoda, Colombiatex and the Poetry Festival will stay in El Centro Hotels, while others will look for middle of the road/$$ and middle of the city hotels in Laureles.

No matter what your preference, Medellin offers a wide variety of Hotels and accommodations to choose from.  You will find very upscale accommodations, mostly in El Poblado but some very nice places in El Centro as well. You will experience above average service as the Paisas are well known for their friendliness and you will have an opportunity to sample a wide variety of foods in Medellin.

Make sure you look around at what the rest of the city has to offer besides just Poblado.  You may discover the perfect place at the perfect price in the perfect location elsewhere.

Medellin Universities

Medellin Universities are considered a center of educational excellence throughout Colombia and the rest of Latin America and many students seek to attend school here. Many degrees are transferable to other countries.

Many Medellin Universities offer undergraduate as well as Masters and PHD programs. In the Public Universities like the University of Antioquia, students pay according to their abilities and family incomes so no one with a desire to attend and meeting the minimum requirements is ever refused entrance. The Private universities like EAFIT are only for the most well to do families.

It is possible for people as young as 15 to enter the public Universities if they have completed their “secondaria” education (equivalent of our HS graduation).

Many of the Universities offer long term Spanish classes for foreigners.

Most schools begin classes at 6:30 AM and extend until 10:00 PM Mon-Sat.!

Medellin Tourism

Because of its bloody past and once being known as “The Murder Capital of the World”, the home of the infamous Pablo Escobar and the Medellin Drug Cartel, Medellin has never been known as a prime tourist destination. In the past decade, with security improving and the murder rate actually dropping below many US cities, more and more tourists are visiting Medellin.Whether it is morbid curiosity about a city that once had more killings in a single year than many countries had overall, the word is getting out about what a great place Medellin is to visit.

Modern infrastructure, year round spring like climate, excellent schools and universities, upscale malls and accommodations, great restaurants and very friendly people, conspicuous and everpresent security and a building boom to rival any major city in the world are making Medellin Colombia a target for travelers everywhere.Maybe it has something to do with the well known Medellin nightlife or the quality of Medellin Lifestyles. Medical Tourism is becoming very popular in Medellin. Perhaps it is the beautiful Medellin Girls or the presence of adult oriented venues, Marriage and Dating agencies opening operations catering to Western male travelers.Whatever your reasons for considering Medellin you should add it to your travel plans. Medellin tourism is increasing each year as more and more westerners visit this gem of a city. Most stay in the upscale area of Poblado in Hotels, Apartments, Hostels or other Medellin Accommodations. They dine in excellent local Medellin restaurants, dance and party in Medellin Bars and Discos, shop in local Medellin Malls, hunt for bargains in the small shops in El Centro and attend local Medellin Language Schools to learn some of the most formal Spanish in all of Latin America.

It doesn’t hurt that this South American nation is enjoying a tourist boom that brought more than a million visitors to the country last year for the first time in two decades, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Tourism.

Of all those people coming to Colombia, at least 3 percent come to get medical treatment. In 2004, 21,000 people came for surgery and in 2005, about 30,000. That number continues to increase yearly as more and more people choose Medellin for Health Tourism.

Once they become acclimated to the Paisa way of life and culture, many return and an ever growning number are moving to this fair city to fully experience Medellin Life as a local Paisa!

Medellin Gyms

Want to keep up your daily work outs while visiting Medellin?

Medellin has a number of fine Gym facilities with Body Tech being the clear leader as far as numbers and size of facilities.

Many hotels also have small gym and work out facilities but the larger Medellin Gyms seem to attract the most tourists.

CLUB SANTILLANA

cl 2 s 43 c38

Medellin, Colombia Tel 57-4-268-2328

Located in Poblado a couple of blocks away from Oviedo Mall, Santillana is a popular medium sized gym that offers temporary memberships to tourists.

Body Tech-There are 4 Body Tech locations in Medellin; All offer temporary memberships and are fully equipped like their American counterparts. They also sponsor frequent fashion shows.

Closest to Poblado is the Body Tech located in El Tessoro Mall. We are told it costs 80,000COP per week or 160K for a month.

Body Tech Las Vegas Cra 46 No 16 Sur-67 313-3176

Body Tech Laureles Cra 66 b No 32 d-36

Body Tech Viscaya Calle 10 No 32-115 Centro Commercial Vizcaya Local 127 Phone 270-8440

The newest Medellin Body Tech is scheduled to be opened in the new Centro Comercial Premium Plaza in Q-1 of 2008.

Body Tech also puts on frequent fashion shows at many of it’s facilities.

Medellin Colombia-Books on Medellin and Colombia

Enjoy reading? We know that we do! There have been many books (over 8,000) written about Colombia; Its violent history, art, culture, treasures, politics, civil war, agriculture, birds, cooking, Spanish rule, independence and more.

Here are a few books we recommend before or even after your visit to get acquainted with Medellin Colombia and Colombia in general.

Perhaps the most chilling character in Medellins history has to be Pablo Escobar. He was known as the ruler of the Medellin Drug Cartel, waged a war against local police, military and politicians, was named as Forbes 7th richest man, served as a Representative in the Colombian House of Representatives and was utlimately tracked down and killed by Colombian Military, DEA and US Delta Team forces tracking his cell phone calls to his family. Perhaps no other book describes his background and ultimate demise moreso than, Killing Pablo. Highly recommended reading!

Most visitors to Medellin and Colombia know very little about the 45 year old Civil War that has rocked this country with violence. Understandng the FARC, Paramilitaries, AUN, kidnappings, bombings, killing judges and more. What is this whole deal about?

BETWEEN LEGITIMACY AND VIOLENCE: A History of Colombia, 1875-2002

Marco Palacios’ Between Legitimacy and Violence: A History of Colombia, 1875-2002 is an analysis of how social, economic, and political conditions combined to create a hyper-violent outburst that has reverberated like shockwaves through Colombia’s history. Palacios, a leading Latin American expert, organizes his work according to relevant historical events instead of the strict chronological sequence usually used in histories of Colombia. This technique allows readers to concentrate on the events, essentially grasping the relevance and impact of each.

Also available in a 430 word essay summary.

Peace, Democracy, and Human Rights in Colombia (KELLOGG INST INT’L S) (Paperback)

Inside Colombia: Drugs, Democracy and War (Paperback)

by Grace Livingstone

Book Description

Colombia is home to the longest-running guerilla war in this hemisphere, a war that has evolved into a multisided conflict. Over forty years ago guerrilla leaders launched their campaign to overthrow the government in the wave of Latin American revolutionary movements. While such movements in other countries from that era have negotiated settlements or suffered defeat, in Colombia two major guerrilla groups soldier on, at times in competition with each other. In the intervening years, these groups have been joined by new antagonists who sometimes strike alliances, though rivalry generally prevails. Drug traffickers, right-wing paramilitary squads, government police units, Colombia’s armed forces, and U.S. advisors, among others, have all joined the fray.

Why has Colombia’s internal war become so entrenched? Why have peace efforts failed to produce durable agreements? Why has Colombia’s long-standing democracy experienced such glaring failures? Who should be held accountable for the violence suffered by the Colombian people? Peace, Democracy, and Human Rights in Colombia addresses these pressing questions and delves deeply into the underlying politics and bedrock human rights issues in Colombia. Authored by leading Colombian and U.S. scholars, the chapters examine Colombia’s atttempts at negotiating peace, the weakening of political institutions, patterns of violence, and human-rights politics. Contributors also consider the influential role played by the United States and the impact of drugs on politics.

For scholars, this timely collection provides a theoretical understanding of human rights violations, corruption, political fragmentation, and reform. Policy makers will find careful analyses and debate about policy outcomes and alternatives, as well as recommendations for action to protect rights, strengthen democracy, and pursue peace. Students will find a route to understanding the history and dynamics of Colombia’s contemporary challenges of human rights, democracy, and peace.

From the Back Cover

“This excellent volume provides not only an introduction to the difficult issues of peace, democracy, and human rights in Colombia; it also offers a series of very intelligent and provocative discussions of these issues. The authors make use of a wide variety of primary and secondary sources that will be of interest to scholars, policymakers, and the growing number of general readers interested in the direction of U.S. foreign policy.” -John C. Dugas, Kalamazoo College

Indepth book on the period known as La Violencia: Medellin

Blood and Fire: La Violencia in Antioquia, by Mary Roldan and Mary Roldán

Colombia Travel Books

Colombia in Pictures (Visual Geography. Second Series)

Lonely Planet Colombia

Arts and Culture:

Botero By Fernando Botero

Religion, Society, and Culture in Colombia: Antioquia and Medellin 1850-1930 (Oxford Historical Monographs) by Patricia Londono-Vega (Hardcover – May 24, 2002) Note: Expensive Hardcover book. Over $200.

Suprema Bondad-Jose Miguel Yepes (Available in English in PDF format on the website) Inspirational, poetry and thoughts of the author over a 14 year period inspired by Kahil Gibran and Prem Rawat. Miguel Yepes has also authored over 8 books on chess and other topics.

Medellin Bed and Breakfast and Guest Houses

Whats the difference between a B&B, and a Hostel? (Hostal or Hostales in Spanish).Seems as though the owners are having difficulties themselves distinguishing what they are to a given market. Many bill themselves as both and use key words on their web sites to that effect. Many B&B’s are also labeling themselves as Hotels and vice versa so the confusion deepens even further.

Hostels provide accommodation where guests can rent a bed, sometimes a bunk bed in a dormitory and share a bathroom, kitchen and lounge. Rooms can be mixed or single-sex, although private rooms are increasingly common in all types of hostels. All hostels are generally cheaper for both the operator and the occupant; many hostels employ their long-term residents as desk clerks in exchange for free accommodation.A bed and breakfast normally provides a private bedroom and private or shared bathroom with breakfast or other meals included. Many Bed and Breakfasts charge as much if not sometimes more than a hotel for a room for the night and include many similar amenities.

You will find a list of locally advertised Medellin Bed And Breakfasts but many will also show up on the Hostel page. The biggest difference seems to be price and B&B’s rarely offer dormitory style accommodations! Beyond those differentiators it is all marketing.

Medellin Casinos

Paisas love gambling. Many of the Medellin Casinos listed only have slot machines while others have full service gaming tables with Black Jack, Caribbean Poker and Roulette. Several Medellin Casinos have started Texas Hold Em tournaments. Out of 7 cities in Colombia with legalized gambling, Medellin ranks number 2 in number of casinos.One of the newer Medellin Casinos recently opened in Parke Lleras called Casino Lleras Crown. They boast an impressive array of slots, Black Jack, Caribbean Poker and Roulette. Monday through Wednesday they host Texas Hold Em tournaments with assured banking and double buy in rules. Everyday from 3 PM until Midnight they have Millionaire Roulette with accumulating prizes.

Medellin Accommodation- Medellin Hostels

Traveling on a budget? Looking for Hostels (hostals/hostales) in Medellin?For the budget minded, student or backpacker traveler to Medellin, there are a number of very affordable Hostles in and around Medellin. Many offer private or dorm rooms, include breakfast, internet access, television and maid service. Many Medellin Hostels are owned and operated by westerners and therefore are up to western standards.

Casa Kiwi- Probably one of the more popular hostels in Medellin because of its close proximity to Parke LLeras. It gets pretty good reviews from the people that stay there. They now also have a hotel room type of offering for a few dollars more.Palm Tree Hostel-This Hostel is located close to the stadium in Medellin which is close to a university and a university crowd. Generally gets good reviews. 2005 rates posted so check for current prices.Black Sheep Hostel-This hostel, also in the Poblado area of town, also gets good reviews.El Club Hostel-A nice hostel in the San Jeronimo area North of Medellin and closer to Santa Fe de Antioquia. Bit of a hike into the city for tourism and nightlife. Nice facilities though. Dorm type and private rooms available.Hostal Medellin

-Hostel located very close to El Centro part of town.Hostel Tamarindo-Another Poblado Hostel within walking distance of Parque LLeras. Gets consistently good reviews.Provenza Hostel-Not too far from Parke Lleras, this hostel has 5 private rooms and 2 dorm rooms. Little pricey by Medellin Hostel standards but has all the amenities you would expect.Hotel Conquistadores-Located in the heart of El Centro in downtown Medellin. Caution advised at night. Travel in groups.Vica Hostel- Located in the Laureles area of Medellin (between Poblado and downtown) with both shared and private rooms.Casa del Sol

-Owned and operated by a nice Colombian family with both dorms and private rooms.Casa Jerusalem

jerusalem_medellin@yahoo.com321-5230;316-348-8000

Medellin Home Staysmedellinhomestays@yahoo.com447-1966

HOSTAL 71-50 –

Cr 65 71-50(57) (4) 4414929, (57) (4) 2578011

Medellin hostels offer an alternative to other Medellin accommodations. For more information and property photos visit.

Medellin Transportation-Buses

Medellin Buses

The bus system in Medellin is perhaps the least expensive method of local paid transportation. About 1,100 pesos ($.55). There are a few pitfalls to be leery of though before you decide to ride on one;

The Cons:

·Their routes can be confusing. Although they have their destinations posted on large signs and painted on their front windows, it can still be difficult to know if you are getting on one that will let you off close to your final destination. Best to make your first few trips with a local.

·Sometimes you must take two or more busses to get to where you want to go. You must know where to get off to catch your connecting bus.

·Most of the busses are not air conditioned. It is not bad in the cool hours of the day but can get rather warm in the afternoons.

·They make lots of frequent stops and arrival at your final destination may take much longer than you planned.

·They can be bumpy and the seats are not that comfortable in the first place.

·Many tend to bunch up at bus stops and if you get 2-3 diesel smoke belching buses in front of you, well, the air inside your bus can become rather foul.

The Pros:

·They are a very inexpensive method of getting around the city. About 1,100 COP.

·You meet some very friendly people that will help you if you need it.

·They are a great way to see the city as you are higher above other vehicles.

·If there is an accident, the bus will always win…LOL!Travelers tips: Have small change or small bills. They usually do not carry a lot of change.

TuribusMedllin

Privately operated buses that take tours to various parts of the city. These are not air conditioned but are much more comfortable; stop only at designated, parks, musems and other attractions; and, return you to your point of origin when the tour is finished.

One leaves Parke Poblado every morning at 9:00AM and generally returns by 1:00PM, then makes the same tour from 1:00-5:00PM. Great way to see the sights of the city, comfortably and inexpensively.

Calle 9c Sur No.50ff-97 (El Parque de Poblado)

Phone: (4) 851-978

E-mail: Seditrans@epm.net.co

It is an option for touring the city, and one of the easiest ways to get around Medellin.

Current TURIBUS schedule from 9:00am to 1:00pm to 5:00pm.

The outstanding tourist places where the circuits start are:

El parque del Poblado, Plaza Botero, and Parque de los Pies Descalzos.

Buy your tickets at the TURIBUS buses.

You get special discounts in museums, restaurants, shopping and others sites of interest in the city, showing your TURIBUS ticket.

They offer special programs for groups.

Prices

Adult’s price $12,000COP

The elderly’s price $10.000 (more than 60 years)

Child’s price $10.000 (between 4-12)

TICKET’S SALE’s UNTIL 1:00PM

Then of course, there are the infamous Chiva rides!

If you happen to be with a group, one very fun thing to do is hire a Chiva. This is an age old tradition all over Colombia but very well known in Cartagena and Medellin. It is essentially a PARTY BUS!

Groups of family, friends, co-workers, class mates etc. will hire a Chiva for an evening of partying, drinking and listening to loud music. The Chiva takes a pre-determined route through the city (like along the riverfront during Christmas lighting time). There is usually a lot of drinking, a live traditional Colombian music group on board, gaudy lights, noisemakers and more. It is just a safe way to have a rolling party. People along the route usually cheer on the revelers and wish them much fun.

They will make a stop or two along the way for badly needed bathroom breaks. It is usually at a small tienda somewhere. Make sure you buy something small from the store owner as a token of your appreciation for letting you use his bathroom. Some may have pay bathroom stalls and a purchase is not expected.

Traveler Tips: If you are taking your video or digital camera at night, make sure you have your flash or light attachment. It can be dark inside.

Domestic Bus Travel

Bus travel between major Colombian cities is possible; Main lines include Empresa Arauca, Flota Magdalena, and Expresos Brasilia Bolivariano and ExpressoPalmiranda. Travel time over principal routes from Bogotá: Medellin (10 hrs.), Cali (12 hrs.), Barranquilla (20 hrs.). It is a great way to see the beautiful countryside and mountains of Colombia. They are considered safe between major cities. Cost between Bogata and Medellin is approximately $49.000COP.