A Peek at Medellin on 15/06/10 by Alexandria Prain

Medellin, once considered unsafe and drug ridden, has truly become one of Colombia's most beloved and sophisticated cities. Offering its visitors the chance to experience Spanish heritage, cultural elegance and modern amenities, it is no wonder this magnificent city is quickly becoming a haven for both new and seasoned travelers.

Medellin sits in the Aburra Valley, along the central Andean mountain range. The city is home to some 3 million people and has continuously proven to be one of South America's fastest growing cities.

Things to see: This stunning city has a huge list of landmarks and sites that are more than worth making time for. Here are the city's best spots:

1. El Hueco: The old center of the city, this area gives visitors a chance to look at an authentic side of Medellin. Here people are buying and selling just about anything you could ever want.

2. Parque Nacional del Cafe: a little off the beaten path, but definitely worth the stop, the National Coffee Park is a truly special place. The park is similar to a "State Fair," and is complete with open spaces and amusement park rides.

3. Teatro de Medellin: Sitting next to the Parque de Pies Descalzos, right on the river bank, this modern building is a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.



El Hueco on Sunday

5. El Guanabano: Although it has been neglected by many travel books, this area is the bohemian heart of the city. Here you can enjoy a number of great cafes, a small and popular park and a wonderful mix of bohemian street life and parisian like cafes.

Grab a Bite: After you have explored this enthralling city, make sure to take a break and grab a bite to eat. Here are a list of our favorite places to enjoy some delicious Colombian treats. While in the city make sure to taste the region specific tamales made of maize and chopped pork or chicken with vegetables and eggs, which are then steamed in a banana leaf, as well as arepas, which are believed to have originated in Medellin.




1. Amor y Sabos: A great little lunch spot and cafe,
with delicious sandwiches and more. You can expect to pay around $5,000 pesos for a full meal.

2. Mango Maduro: Considered the best place to dine at in the city, this small bohemian restaurant offers an amazing atmosphere, as well as delicious food. It has just 9 tables in the whole restaurant and serves up local cuisine for less than $5500 pesos.

3. Salon Versalles: An Argentine restaurant that serves up the best empanadas in the city, this place is always packed and is beloved for its afternoon coffee time.

4. La Estancia: If you are really trying to scrape by on as little money as possible, head over to this decent and local favorite. It has a big space and you can grab lunch for just 4,000 pesos, the equivalent of ($1.50).

The Place to Party: Medellin is known worldwide for its beautiful women, happy people and most important vivacious parties. If you are looking for a true Colombian experience make sure to head out to these great places:

1. El Poblado- Zona Rosa: The party district, this is definitely the area to head to when you are in the mood to party. El Poblado offers a great array of hotels, discos, clubs and shopping, and is where all the beautiful people of Medellin hang out.

2. Mangos Discoteca: By far the most popular nightclub in all of Medellin, this place is a must visit and definitely a must dance at.

3. Berlin: One of the first bars in all of Medellin, this European styled tavern is a bohemian refuge marked with furniture from the old times.

4. Palmahia Disco: Another favorite in town, this loud and fun disco has great music and keeps its door open until 4 o'clock in the morning. Located on Carrera 42 no. 85B-121.

5. El Estabon Prendido: One of the best salsa places in the city, this disco has great music and is always fun. They also offer a nice lunch. Located next to Donde Eduard (CI 53 No 42-63).

Getting Around: Have no fear of getting yourself around the city. Medellin is jam packed with buses, taxis and a metro. The city has two bus stations and two airports. If coming by bus from Bogota or the Caribbean coast, you will arrive in the northern bus terminal. If coming from the city of Cali, or the south you will arrive in the southern bus terminal. Both have plentiful taxi services to take you to and from your hostel and from the northern terminal you have the option of taking the metro.

The main international airport sits just 45 minutes outside of the city and services nearly all the flights coming in and out of the city. A taxi from the airport will cost around 50,000 pesos. There are also collectivo buses available that cost around 6000 pesos a person.

Taxis: The taxis in the city all run on a meter, which will show you the exact price of the cab ride.

Buses: to get from the center to Poblado, take the bus labeled " Poblado." These buses leave at the corner of the Exito supermarket.

Medellin Metro: The pride of the city, the metro is a great way to get around the city. It is cheap and runs extremely well, providing a fast a efficient way to get around the city.

Places to stay: Medellin is filled to the brim with great budget and more expensive hostels and hotels, when looking to book a great hostel consider these two friendly, clean and equipped budget accommodations.

1. Saman Hostel: Situated in the heart of El Poblado, this clean and laid back hostel is a wonderful place to rest your head and enjoy the nightlife of city. Book you stay here:medellin hostel

2. Buddha Hostel: A beautiful and unique hostel that focuses on providing backpackers with peace, tranquility, cultural experiences and more. The hostel provides safe and clean facilities, cozy rooms and even yoga classes. Make your reservation at buddha hostel .