We spoke to an expat turned local that owns his own bar in the Parque Lleras area. We wanted to share his insight of what Medellín was, is and will be in the next five years. Here is Colombia from an expat’s perspective.
When I first visited Medellín Colombia, my expectations were low, I was a little scared. I had always heard so many negative things about the city. But within a few hours of roaming the streets of El Poblado. I came to the realization that most the negative comments were to ensure no one else visited this beautiful city.
Medellin, Colombia from an Expat’s Perspective
Now, here we are 10 years hence. When I go back to the U.S I still feel people look at me funny when I tell them I live in Medellín, Colombia. I get comments from people asking me if I’ve ever encountered or been in a dangerous situation. At which time I inform them of how “safe” people are in Memphis, Chicago, and Detroit.
If you visit Medellín, Colombia, and are about that party life and going hard, you may do so, but please be discreet. In 99% of countries in the world, it isn’t recommended to wear flashy jewelry or act obnoxious when drunk. Although the city is safe for the most part, don’t force it.
What do you Recommend Bachelors, Adventure Enthusiasts, and Families to see and do?
I’ve lived here for 10 years and I can pretty much say, I’ve seen and done it all. I arrived as a 25-year-old bachelor looking for excitement and adventure and that’s what I got in Medellin.
Activities and Tours in Medellin, Colombia from an Expat’s Perspective
Both bachelor and adventure enthusiasts can take part in the many adventure trips the department of Antioquia has to offer. There are ATV trails in Rionegro, boat parties on the beautiful Guatape lake. Paintball tournaments and paragliding. I’ve also been to Jaco and done all these things but Medellin is different, it still manages to have that untouched, friendly atmosphere. As well as a big-city experience, you get the best of both worlds.
What to do in Medellin, Colombia
When I first moved here I had no idea I would end up living here, meeting my wife, and having my children here. Medellin might get a bad rep and might have a few people coming down here thinking it’s one big party. But you also get families coming down wanting to experience the other side of Medellin. Medellin’s intangibles if you will.
What are these intangibles? Well, to put it simply, the view from the top of the mountains while riding the MetroCable. The Guatape lake from the top of La Piedra del Peñol. Walking around Antioquia’s former capital, Santa Fe de Antioquia, and its colonial-like architecture. A bandeja paisa and a stroll around the town of Guatape.
This is the side of Medellín, Colombia bachelors usually don’t enjoy but will regret not seeing. So when guys ask me if Medellín is the right place to take my family, the answer is a resounding yes.
Medellin, Colombia today
A lot of new expats tend to come to me for guidance and ask where I think the city is going. Where it is right now at which time I say that the sky is the limit for Medellín.
As more and more people leave their prejudices behind. They will come to discover that Medellín, Colombia is a place for everyone, and not visiting Medellín once in your life will be something you’re sure to regret.
Want to learn more about Medellin, Colombia from an expat’s perspective? Contact us today for more information.
