Medellin, Colombia
 

I am trying to decide whether to accompany my husband when he goes on a business trip to Medellin. He is a native Spanish speaker (Mexican) and has been there before. I am light haired, freckled (49)and not completely fluent in spanish but can find my way around. He will be busy all day everyday so I will be on my own. Haven't been able to find out much about the city-except for a couple of museums and a couple of parks. I may be there for a full week.

Any advice?

Medellin is a beautiful city. My wife is from there and I am originally from Europe. I do not speak Spanish. We visit Medellin annually but we stay with the family.
The security is much improved since Uribe became the president 4 years ago, but wondering by yourself is a bit tricky.
While it's OK to visit downtown ("El Centro") with your husband during the daytime, it may be questionable under different circumstances. If you are on your own, you may want to go to a section called El Poblado, where it's much safer. It has beautiful shopping centers and a pleasant atmosphere.

I spent the last week traveling alone in Medellin, and I can tell you that I could not feel any safer (I´m in my early 30s). Yes, there are basic things to watch out for, as in any city. In general, if you have some Spanish, people are incredibly helpful and welcome; some will literally escort you to wherever you´re trying to get to. I took a Spanish class in the mornings and spent most of the days wandering around (walking and by metro); I talked to people everywhere and felt really comfortable the entire time.

The recommendations above are very good ones. As long as you have some Spanish, you can easily hop in a taxi if you find yourself in a place where you don´t feel comfortable; taxi drivers have been honest and straightforward, and very helpful.

There are also some great day trips you can take from the Northern bus terminal. Guatapé/El Peñol has some great little plazas, a beautiful lake and a huge stone (La Piedra) that you can climb for really extraordinary views. The lakeshore is dotted with restaurants and cafes serving wonderful food (including fresh fish). Santa Fe de Antioquia is a very well-preserved town in the typical style, with beautiful old houses, cobblestones streets, tons of fresh fruit, and beautiful artisanal work.

In general, I found that people are incredibly proud of their country (and in Medellin, of Antioquia in particular), and that as long as you show an interest, you will be welcomed with open arms. I would not miss the opportunity if I were you.

Julie

Medellin is fine. You should head to the Parque Berrio during the daytime and the Museo de Antioquia there, perhaps visit the Botanical Gardens, the Cerro Nutibara and in the evening head to El Poblado and Parque Lleras. For more info check out http://colombia-travel.suite101.com/...a_walking_tour

Hi,
what is the best time of year to travel to Medellin and where else should one consider going to on a two week first time trip to Colombia? Is land-travel between cities still a no-no (should one fly?)

any tips welcome

Medellin has a good all year round temperature, but in order to visit I should suggest going during part of the flower festival in july or august. Bus travel is possible between major cities but be sure to ask the relevant authorities beforehand.

Do consider coffee country-beautiful countryside down windy roads with extraordinary flowers and lush green, out of Pereria or Armenia airports.

The Sunday market and pedestrian walkway on Cra. Poblado is pleasant people-watching in Medellin.

Cartegena is like a stage set for Carmen and is a visual treat, but ever so hot and humid.

This November it rains almost daily in Medellin and there is construction. It feels safe and the water and food are fine. All but one taxi driver has been good but do know the area of town you are asking for.

Discover Botero the artist in Bogota and Medellin.....

See my blog. Saltandpeppertravel.com. We Sid Parque Arvi today but I would go not alone.

Am highly recommending La Cantine in Provenza for great food / a French bistro.