1. Dance the Night Away: Bachata Dancing
My sister-in-law (Jazzy) invited me to take an emersive spanish class in Medellin, Colombia. The school where we attended had group and solo batchata dance classes. Of course I took both which you can watch within the playlist above. It was a blast! Eventhough no one spoke English it was a great way to build relationships with the locals.
Medillin, Colombia is home to an electrifying bachata dancing scene that captivates both locals and tourists. Originating from the Dominican Republic, bachata is characterized by its romantic tunes and intricate footwork, weaving together elements of guitar melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
My brother took me to my first Salsa & Batchata Congress in 2018. I became addicted. The genre’s evolution over the years has led to its spread throughout Latin America, with Medellin emerging as a vibrant hub for this passionate dance form.
With its warm and inviting atmosphere, bachata dances are often held in various venues across the city, offering a unique mingling experience. Popular spots such as Son Havana, La Pascasia, and Bachata en Medellin frequently feature live music and dance classes, where participants can learn the fundamental steps and styles of bachata.
The social aspect of bachata in Medellin cannot be overstated. It acts as a cultural bridge, allowing newcomers to connect with locals through shared rhythm and movement. Ultimately, bachata is not just a dance; it is an invitation to experience the rich, collective spirit of Medellin.
Discover the Heart of the City at Plazoleta de los Zocalos
Plazoleta de los Zocalos stands as a vibrant public square in the heart of Medellin, exemplifying the city’s rich cultural tapestry. This lively hub is surrounded by impressive architecture, showcasing the historical essence of the area while seamlessly blending with modern influences.
Stepping into Plazoleta de los Zocalos felt like being transported to another realm just by turning the corner, which a dog led the way. The square serves as a canvas for various artistic expressions, enlivened by local artisans and vendors showcasing their crafts and cultral foods.
In addition to its cultural significance, Plazoleta de los Zocalos is conveniently located near other attractions. Jazzy and I booked a tour bus by googling tours of Meddellin where we toured several attractions in one day.
The video playlist above showcases all the locations we experieinced including Plazoleta de los Zocalos. For the best experience, it is recommended to visit during weekends or special events when the square is most animated. Our weekday visit also presented a chance to appreciate the tranquil beauty of the site due to less people.
Embracing the ambiance of Plazoleta de los Zocalos is an essential part of experiencing the heart and soul of Medellin, making it a must-visit destination. Of course we got the picture at the viral umbrella location while eating their world famous cinnamon buns.
Reach New Heights: Rock Climbing in Medellin
I climbed El Peñón de Guatapé (also known as La Piedra del Peñol) as a super beginner. Huffed and puffed until the top but the view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking. Worth every sore muscle 🙂 This tourist location was my favorite.
Medellin, often celebrated for its vibrant culture and innovation, also serves as a prime destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. The city boasts a diverse range of climbing opportunities, catering to both beginners and seasoned climbers.
Popular climbing destinations such as Suesca and La Mojarra present challenging routes that promise not only an adrenaline rush but also breathtaking vistas of the Andes. These natural sites are ideal for climbers looking to enjoy the picturesque landscape while honing their skills in a unique setting.
When we reach the top of El Peñón de Guatapé, the panoramic views was the ultimate reward encapsulating the beauty of Medellin and its surrounding mountains. The exhilaration of conquering a climbing route combined with the stunning scenery makes it an unforgettable experience.
Exploring the Stunning Waterfront Properties
The waterfront properties we toured were absoluetly breathtaking. From cultural arcitecture, minimalistic communities, and ex-drug lord estates. One of the properties was Pablo Escobars home. You can still see some of the home that was burned down during the raid. Even his abandoned helecopter. His estate was gorgeous. Which can be expected when your business genrates $60 million daily!!!
Our boat was definitley the party boat. The captain played popular colombian music from an artist whose house we happen to float by. Another dancing session began. The tour guide even showed us how to move our hips…Columbian style.
By partaking in these experiences, visitors can appreciate how waterfront properties contribute to Medellin’s urban revival, highlighting the city’s dedication to sustainability and community engagement. You can also see the different water lines due to climate change.
Uncovering the Art and Culture of Comuna 13
Comuna 13 stands as a testament to transformation and resilience, having evolved from a once troubled area into a dynamic hub of art and culture. This neighborhood gained notoriety during the lengthy conflict that affected the city but has since emerged as a powerful symbol of change, showcasing the talent and creativity of its residents.
One of the most striking features of Comuna 13 is its vibrant street art, which adorns walls and buildings throughout the community. As we walked the streets I was shocked at the amount of African American culture reflected in their expression. From murals of break dancers, the food stands playin Tupac, and dance battles.
Our tour guide was one of the instructors at the school we attended. We got one-on-one treatment plus the guide knew the people. The vendor gave us special treatment due to their relationship.
Guided tours have become popular among visitors keen to understand the depth of Comuna 13’s evolution. These tours, often led by locals, offer an intimate experience that bridges cultural divides, allowing tourists to interact with community members and gain insights into the significance of each artwork.
The murals themselves are not merely decorative; they symbolize the collective spirit of the residents, many of whom participated in the creation of these pieces. The tales behind them frequently highlight themes of hope, empowerment, and a united community. Beyond the artistry, Comuna 13 hosts several social initiatives aimed at uplifting its residents and promoting local talent.
Visiting Comuna 13 not only provides an opportunity to appreciate its artistic wealth but also to engage respectfully with a community that has shown immense courage and determination. When you go do not leave Communa 13 without trying “Guarapo”. This is a traditional, refreshing street drink made by crushing fresh sugar cane stalks and limes together in a press.
Master a New Skill: Spanish Classes in Medellin
Studying Spanish while in Medellin presented a head first emergment into the language and culture. This vibrant city offers a plethora of options for travelers seeking to enhance their language skills, ranging from formal classroom settings to personalized instruction with private tutors. Enrolling in a Spanish class not only helps to develop linguistic proficiency but also fosters a deeper understanding of the local customs and traditions.
We attend Valley Spanish School which was walking distance from our hotel. A two week, 8 hr/day with 2 teacher program. Once class started there was no more English spoken. I struggled but my sis-in-law did great. Put me in a Mandarrin class and it is a different story 🙂
Understanding Spanish significantly enhances the travel experience in Medellin. We went grocery shopping practicing our spanish. The locals seemed delighted we were putting forth effort to communicate in their language. Is it not a sign of respect? I accidently called a local “Mi amor” after he helped with our grocaries. I was wondering why he laughed. My sis-in-law said you only say that when you are in a relationship. Oops.
Savor the Flavors: A Culinary Journey Through Medellin
Within the same day of touring Comuna 13 the instructor/tour guide from Valley Spanish School took us to a market. I am a fanatic for fresh produce especially exotic fruits with seeds since we rely so much on genetically modified produce in The States.
I drooled at the soursop. I have only been able to eat whole soursop when I go to Ghana. Definitely a delight. Their restraunts are top knotch and diverse. From tradional plates to sushi to pizza. What ever your taste buds want it is available.
When touring another country, I select the traditional food first before drifting to American or Chinese delicaies. The famous Mondongo’s is a must try! You can taste how they have perfected their flavoring over decades. Endulging in the chicken vegstable soup brought joy to my soul. The chicken just melted in my mouth. I did not know meat could have that type of texture. The city is renowned for its unique local ingredients and traditional dishes, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.
Some other must-try dishes include bandeja paisa, a hearty platter featuring rice, beans, minced meat, sausage, avocado, and arepa, which embodies the essence of Antioquia. Another local favorite is la arepa, a corn-based flatbread that comes in various forms and fillings, showcasing the versatility of Colombian food.
The combination of traditional and contemporary approaches results in a vibrant dining scene that is constantly evolving. For those seeking a true taste of Medellin, exploring its culinary offers is essential. With numerous food events, markets, and restaurants, there is no shortage of opportunities to savor the unforgettable flavors that define this remarkable city.
There were eateries at every corner. Medellin, Columbia was beautiful. It is literally a city built within a mountain. Architecture and infrastructure made transporting easy and enjoyable. I encourage you to add it to your tour list 🙂
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