I’ve visited Medellín a few times before and haven’t been a fan, as I’ve detailed elsewhere on this site. Despite this, I recognize why it appeals to others: its warm climate, lush greenery, superior infrastructure compared to other Colombian cities, and charming local culture and history. However, the significant expat population there has always dampened my enthusiasm. As a travel hipster, I tend to avoid destinations popular with expats, as I find their culture isn’t mine (ironic, right?) —this is also why Bali doesn’t appeal to me. I’m aware that my viewpoint might seem a bit quirky or pretentious, especially since I’ve been living abroad myself. But, motivated to challenge my biases and explore Medellín beyond my previous dislikes, I decided to give it another chance. This time, I avoided the Poblado neighborhood, which I particularly dislike, and chose Laureles, situated on the city’s west side, as my new base to experience the city a little differently.
One thing I never gave Medellín sufficient credit for in the past was how easy it is to meet people. There are dozens of events, activity groups, networking opportunities, and organizations accessible to everyone. In the first week of my month-long stay, I attended an event on AI networking, joined a weekly volleyball league and a yoga group, and had dozens of opportunities to participate in and join excursions. I found these social exercises fun! The local Paisa culture has a reputation for being very warm, welcoming, and open, and there is no denying this is a thing compared to the Rolos of Bogotá. It probably also helps that foreigners who visit, stay and live in Medellín also bring in additional money to the economy, which likely garners more amiable reactions than the refugee Venezuelans who might be considered less useful by some than gringos with money that can purchase goods and services.
An unfortunate reality with the influx of remote working expats is the burden locals bear. People like me often stay in apartments so that we can cook our meals. This demand increases the associated costs of the rental market and gentrifies areas, making them too expensive for locals. It’s a common theme in Mexico City, Split, Croatia, and seemingly every place I like to spend my time (I wonder if I can still call myself a travel hipster if the places I like are the same ones as everyone else?). If it’s any consolation, my neighborhood in Denver, Colorado, is too expensive. That’s one of the reasons I no longer live there – the cost/value isn’t worth it.
Anyway, back to Medellín – I am happy to say I like it now. The only thing I would change is the weather (way too hot for me), but that is an excellent offset to Bogotá, whose perpetually fresh climate and usual cloudy, rainy days serve as a Yin to Medellín’s Yang. We ought to appreciate all such differences in those places we call home, if only for a while.
