🇨🇴 Medellín: Mountains, Music, and Murals

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🗺 The Vibe

Good morning nomad! Kevin from Nomad for Less here, writing to you from New York City. For our newsletter this week, we're headed back down to South America to explore the city of Medellín, Colombia.

As you arrive in Medellín, you can feel the anticipation building. You're excited to explore everything this beautiful city has to offer. The first thing you notice is the lush greenery surrounding the airport - it's clear that Medellin is a city nestled in the heart of the Andes Mountains.

As you make your way to your apartment, you can hear salsa music coming from a passing street corner, and the scent of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air. The streets are alive with people going about their day, and you feel a sense of excitement as you join them.

After dropping off your bags, you head out to explore the city. You wander through the winding streets of the El Poblado neighborhood, marveling at the colorful street art and beautiful architecture. You can't help but feel drawn to the local cafes, with their cozy atmosphere and inviting aromas.

As the day turns to night, you join the locals in one of the city's bustling bars. The music is lively, the drinks are flowing, and you find yourself making new friends with ease. You can't believe that this is only your first day in Medellín - there's so much to see and do, and you can't wait to experience it all.

🙌 Travel quote of the week

🧭️ To Explore

Medellín is a city that has truly come into its own in recent years. Once known as the home of drug kingpin Pablo Escobar, it has now transformed into a welcoming destination that has plenty to do for visitors. From its beautiful parks to its world-class museums, you’ll enjoy everything this Colombian gem has to offer.

Here are some of the must-see attractions and things to do in Medellín:

1. Ride the cable car to Parque Arví - Take a breathtaking cable car ride up to Parque Arví, a stunning nature reserve located just outside the city. You can hike through the park's lush forest and take in panoramic views of Medellín below.

2. Wander through the Comuna 13 neighborhood - Once one of the city's most dangerous neighborhoods, Comuna 13 has transformed into a vibrant, colorful area filled with street art and music.

3. Take a salsa dancing class - Colombia is known for its lively salsa dancing scene, so sign up for a class at one of the city's many dance schools and learn some new moves.

4. Visit El Castillo Museum - Located in the heart of the city, this historic mansion turned museum is filled with antiques and art, including works by famed Colombian artist, Débora Arango.

🍽 To Eat & Drink

Medellín has a diverse culinary scene that draws inspiration from all over Colombia and beyond. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Colombian dishes or international fare, you'll find plenty of new foods to tantalize your taste buds.

Here are some must-try food and drink items in Medellín:

1. Bandeja Paisa - This classic Colombian dish is a hearty platter that typically includes rice, beans, ground beef, fried pork rind, chorizo, a fried egg, and an arepa (a type of corn cake).

2. Aguardiente - Colombia's national spirit is a must-try while in Medellín. This anise-flavored liquor is typically served in shot glasses and is a staple of any night out on the town.

3. Tinto - Coffee lovers will appreciate the tinto, a type of black coffee that's popular throughout Colombia. It's strong, rich, and served in small cups.

4. Chicha - This is a fermented corn drink that has been enjoyed in Colombia for centuries. It's typically sweetened with panela (unrefined cane sugar) and is a refreshing beverage on a hot day.

🎉 Where to Dine, Wine, and Party

Medellín's nightlife scene is legendary, with a vibe that's both lively and welcoming. Whether you're in the mood for a chic rooftop bar, a cozy neighborhood pub, or a high-energy club, Medellín has something to offer. And with a diverse range of neighborhoods to explore, each with its own distinct atmosphere, you'll never run out of options.

Here are some of my top picks for food and nightlife in Medellín:

1. Carmen - This trendy restaurant in the El Poblado neighborhood offers an innovative menu featuring Colombian and Latin American cuisine. The atmosphere is stylish and modern, with a chic rooftop terrace that's perfect for cocktails.

2. Dulce Jesús Mío - This lively club in the Laureles neighborhood is a favorite among locals for its delicious cocktails, live music, and friendly atmosphere. It's a great spot to mingle with locals and get a taste of Medellín's nightlife scene.

3. Envy Rooftop Bar - Located in the El Poblado neighborhood, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and a trendy atmosphere. It's a popular spot for cocktails and dancing on the weekends.

4. La Octava - This bar in the El Centro neighborhood is a hidden gem, with a retro-inspired decor and a laid-back vibe. It's a great spot to grab a beer and chat with friends.

🏡 To Stay

Medellín offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious high-end hotels to affordable hostels and everything in between. There’s stylish boutique hotels in the heart of the city, cozy guesthouses in bohemian neighborhoods, and modern apartments with all the amenities. With so many options to choose from, you can easily find the perfect place to stay that fits your budget and travel style.

🏘 Links to the best long-term stays in the area

• 1 bedroom designer loft in Laureles for $1,379/month

• 1 bedroom rental unit with fantastic view for $742/month

• Artistic studio loft with lovely view for $884/month

✈️ To Fly

Medellín is easily accessible by air, with direct flights from major cities across the Americas and Europe. The city is served by two airports: José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) and Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH). José María Córdova International Airport is the main international airport, located about 45 minutes from the city center. To find the most affordable flights to Medellín, it's recommended to book in advance and avoid traveling during peak season, which is typically from December to February and June to August.

Most of the lowest cost flights fly out of Florida, but you can find your city here and check what the prices are to fly there for you.

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