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Medellin Travel Resources

Medellin Travel Resources

Medellin Antioquia, Colombia Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Effective planning commences well before your departure date.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow this structured approach for a seamless journey.

3

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and visa requirements.

Flights

Book international and major domestic flights.

Accommodation

Secure main lodging, especially for peak travel times.

1

Month Before

Health & Safety

Speak with a travel medicine specialist for vaccinations. Arrange Travel insurance.

Itinerary & Tours

Plan detailed itinerary; book popular tours.

Financials

Notify bank of travel dates; activate international roaming.

1

Week Before

Confirmations

Double-check all flight, accommodation, and excursion bookings.

Packing & Currency

Begin packing; acquire some Colombian Pesos (COP).

Documents

Make photocopies and digital copies of all documents.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items for smooth travel.

Reservations

  • Flights: Both international and any internal Colombian flights.
  • Accommodations: Hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals.
  • Popular Tours: Guided tours for Comuna 13, day trips to Guatapé, coffee farm tours, or adventure activities like paragliding.
  • High-End Dining: Reservations for specific fine dining establishments.

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights for an enriched visit.

Recommendations

  • History and Culture: Read up on Colombian history and Paisa culture.
  • Safety Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with safety tips and local customs.
  • Basic Spanish: Learn some basic Spanish phrases to aid communication.
  • Current Events: Stay informed on local developments.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure peace of mind while away.

Security & Neighbors

  • Secure home: Secure all doors and windows.
  • Inform a trusted neighbor of travel plans.
  • Ask neighbor to watch over property.
  • Leave spare with trusted contact.

Pets & Plants

  • Arrange for pet sitters or boarding.
  • Organize plant watering schedules.
  • Ensure care for all living things.
  • Check for leaks before leaving.

Mail & Bills

  • Temporarily stop mail or newspaper delivery.
  • Arrange for a neighbor to collect deliveries.
  • Pay any required bills due during your trip.
  • Set up automatic payments if possible.

Smart Pre-Trip Actions

A well-prepared journey lessens stress. Make sure to check passport validity and secure travel insurance early.

Arrival Checklist

A smooth start results in a positive Medellin experience.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration:

    Present your passport and any required documents.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked bags from the carousel.

  • 3
    Currency/ATM:

    Exchange a small amount of currency or use an ATM for initial your need for cash.

Orientation Strategies

  • Local SIM Card:

    Purchase and activate a local SIM card for connectivity.

  • Accommodation Check-in:

    Proceed directly to your accommodation to check in and drop off luggage.

  • Public Transport:

    Orient yourself with the The tube system from your lodging, using a plan of the area or app like Moovit.

Immediate Needs & Transport

Currency & Purchases

Ensure you carry enough small denominations of Colombian Pesos for initial expenses.

Purchase bottled water and local snacks upon arrival.

Airport to City Transport

From MDE to city: Use official white taxis with fixed fares, shared colectivos, or pre-booked private transfers.

From EOH to city: Taxis or ride-sharing apps are readily available.

Getting Around

Locate your pre-arranged transport or the official taxi stand upon arrival.

Orient yourself with the Metro system from your lodging.

Seamless Arrival

Plan your arrival details to avoid stress. Having local currency and transport options ready smooths your transition.

Departure Preparation

Ensuring a relaxed and organized departure from Medellin.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase desired souvenirs, mindful of luggage size and weight.
  • Understand what you can bring back home.
  • For larger items, inquire about shipping services; be aware of costs.
  • This approach avoids issues upon re-entry to your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Colombia's VAT (IVA) refund for tourists is not widely established.
  • Do not expect to claim VAT refunds on common purchases.
  • A formal process is not easily accessible or promoted for most visitors.
  • Limited options for general tourist purchases are available.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Allocate ample time for your airport journey.

Timings

  • Airport Arrival:2-3 hours before international, 1.5-2 hours before domestic flight.
  • Flight Status:Confirm your flight status before leaving for the airport.
  • Traffic:Allow extra time for potential traffic delays to MDE, especially during rush hour.
  • Taxi Booking:Pre-arrange airport transfer for reliability.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Pack Efficiently: Adhere to airline weight and size limits to avoid excess baggage fees.
  • Documents: Double-check that all your required documents are in order and accessible.
  • Final Purchases: Make any last-minute purchases or grab a final Colombian coffee before heading to the airport.
  • Home Sweet Home: Plan your smooth return home.

Smooth Departure

Confirming flight status, packing wisely, and allocating extra time for airport travel, notably to MDE, contribute to a relaxed departure.

Consider Eagle Creek for efficient packing solutions.

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