Medellin Antioquia, Colombia Travel Guide
Claro, Tigo, and Movistar are the main mobile providers. Local SIM cards are affordable and available with your passport. Prepaid data packages provide good value for money.
4-72 is Colombia's national postal service. DHL, FedEx, and UPS are also available for international shipping. Portable Wi-Fi devices, like those from Solis Wi-Fi, keep you connected.
ATMs are widespread (banks, malls, supermarkets). Use them during daylight hours and in secure locations. The operating hours of banks typically 8 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Friday.
Banks, government offices, and some businesses close on public holidays, including Catholic observances. Transportation experiences greater activity. Some services operate on reduced schedules. Seasonal closures are less prevalent in Medellin.
Disculpe (dees-KOOL-peh) - Excuse me / Sorry; La cuenta, please (lah KWEN-tah, por fah-VOHR) - The bill, please; Buen provecho (bwen pro-VEH-choh) - Enjoy your meal; Con mucho gusto (kohn MOO-choh GOOS-toh) - You're welcome / My pleasure.
Medellin's culture values politeness and respect.
Handshakes for formal introductions. Close friends and family, and women greeting others, use a kiss on one cheek (usually the right). A simple "Hola, cómo estás?" (Hello, how's it going?) serves as a polite greeting.
Casual dress acceptable. Paisas dress smartly, even casually; avoid overly sloppy attire. For churches or formal events, dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
Photographing public places and significant locations generally fine. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children, to respect privacy. Be discreet in sensitive areas.
Keep elbows off the table. Keep hands visible. Wait for everyone to be served before starting to dine. A 10% tip for good service is customary in restaurants. Many bills include a "propina sugerida."
Avoid discussions on the illegal drug trade or past violence, especially with strangers. These topics touch upon a sensitive part of Medellin's history. Conversations about politics can also prove sensitive.
For independent airport lounge access, consider Priority Pass. Services like Compensair help with flight delay/cancellation compensation.
Travelers with mobility challenges or other accessibility needs consider specific aspects during planning.
Medellin's Metro system offers accessibility with elevators and ramps in stations. Newer buildings, shopping malls, and some community parks generally include good accessibility infrastructure.
The Museum de Arte Moderno de Medellín (MAMM), Botanical Garden, and many modern shopping centers offer good accessibility. The Metrocable system also accommodates accessible travel.
Local disability organizations might give specific guidance. Online forums for travelers with disabilities also present useful peer advice. Preparation beforehand makes a difference.
While Medellin has made strides in accessibility, notably with its Metro and newer developments, challenges remain in older areas and on uneven terrain. Strategic planning makes for a smoother journey.
Medellin has a , welcoming experience. Awareness of local customs and essential Spanish phrases make for a respectful and enjoyable trip. Utilize available connectivity for easy navigation and communication.
Traveling responsibly preserves Medellin's natural beauty and supports its communities.
Medellin and its region boast incredible natural beauty. Parque Arví actively engages in conservation. Local government promotes green initiatives.
Offset flight emissions via trusted carbon offset programs like Terrapass. Prioritize public transport (Metro, Metrocable) locally. Seek eco-friendly accommodation.
Support local artisans, cultural events, and museums. Engage with centers promoting Colombian arts. Learn basic Spanish phrases for respectful interaction. Politeness and patience foster positive exchanges.
Prioritize tours that directly benefit local communities. The Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour, for instance, often employs local guides. Seek out initiatives empowering local residents.
Be aware of potential exploitation in informal sectors. Avoid activities that involve child labor or unfair practices. Do not contribute to activities that exploit vulnerable populations. Avoid animal tourism that includes mistreatment.
Support Rainforest ConservationIf you wish to donate, do so through reputable local Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) or established community projects. Research local charities that align with your values. Avoid giving directly to street beggars.
Choose travel gear and clothing from companies committed to sustainability. Products created with recycled materials or ethical labor practices contribute to responsible travel. Durable goods reduce waste.
Explore Sustainable Outdoor GearEvery choice made as a traveler leaves a footprint. Conscious decisions on where to stay, what to buy, and how to interact contribute positively to Medellin's environment and communities.
