Table of Contents

Click to jump to section

1. Introduction to the Medellin Real Estate industry and opportunity
2. Who we are, what we do?
3. The Medellin Real Estate Guide
   1. Step 1: What are your goals?
   2. Step 2: The importance of location
   3. Step 3: Newer vs. Older Construction
   4. Step 4: Money and Banking 
   5. Step 5: The negotiation
   6. Step 6: Purchase Agreement
   7. Step 7: Closing
4. Updates for 2023
   1. Medellin Real Estate Post-COVID
   2. Remote Work Impacts
   3. Colombian Politics and Presidency 2022-2026
   4. Tax Update 2023
5. Special Topics
   1. Buying in Pre-Construction Projects
   2. Questions to ask developers
   3. Currency considerations
   4. Medellin real estate bubble talk

Introduction

It’s with pleasure that I take the opportunity to update our 7-step Medellin real estate guide for 2023. In this edition I have made a number of important edits and updates including:

• After effects of COVID
• Remote work trends in Medellin
• The new Colombian President (2022-2026)
• 2023 Tax update

The year also marks 15 years since my first visit to Colombia. During this time I’ve seen Medellín grow up from a backpacker hangout to an emerging world-class city to live and invest in. At Casacol we now manage more than $100M USD in Medellin real estate assets. The remote work trend consistently ranking Medellin in the global “Top 10” has transformed the market to where housing and rental costs are now a major political topic. 

Not just for Millennials, retirees too have found Medellin to be a great escape for vacations and 2nd or 3rd homes. General tourism to Colombia is now well above its long-term travel boom trend. International arrivals to the MDE airport are now 42% (as of the June 2022 Update) higher than the 2019 pre-COVID peak and 2023 is up another 10-15% on top of this.

Source: Airplan

Indeed the future looks very bright for the City of Medellin, and especially the Medellin real estate market. As the world continues to globalize, Medellin’s place in world travel and remote living and international investing will continue to increase. Those of you interested in how to participate in the Medellin real estate boom will read on and I hope benefit from this guide which documents my 15 years of experience doing real estate business here.

Who Are We, What Do We Do?

My company, Casacol (like “Casa Colombia”), helps foreign, local, junior and professional investors, 2nd home buyers, and hotel investors realize their investment and real estate diversification goals in Medellín. We are highly, highly focused on expertise in the Medellin real estate market (not Bogota, not Cartagena, not Cali), where our deep experience and focus on ground-up real estate development, traditional real estate brokerage, and high-efficiency property management leads to significantly higher returns than I’ve been able to find anywhere else in Colombia.

We work with everything from studio apartments and high ROI investment properties (our listings are here) to luxury $1M homes, penthouse properties, and hotels (both condo and boutique). For example, see most recently the newly expanded Celestino Hotel and Spa, the acclaimed Marquee Hotel, and our newest Landmark hotel project. Our entire portfolio of managed properties can be found at en.casacol.co.

Plus, we don’t sell anything that we wouldn’t manage for you, which means we offer highly efficient and effective property management and solid returns on your asset long after you’ve made your purchase. A strong property management track record is important when liquidating your investment real estate at the best possible price. We can help during the entire cycle of investment in Medellin real estate from acquisition to disposition.

However the buyer must beware in the Medellin real estate market. The industry here is not regulated as it is in developed countries. Many participants are out to make a quick buck at the expense of the foreign investor. I’ve made a lot of mistakes and seen a lot that others have made too. I hope you can learn from that experience during this guide.

RELOCATING YOUR LIFE OR PARTING WITH A CHUNK OF YOUR LIFE SAVINGS TO INVEST IN AN EMERGING ECONOMY LIKE COLOMBIA IS NOT A DECISION TO BE TAKEN LIGHTLY.

That is the theme of this guide: A comprehensive 7-step guide for investors large and small, starting out, winding down, or just diversifying some assets, whatever your goals are, how to invest safely and securely in Medellín real estate during the entire purchase, management and sales process.

Step 1: So, You Want to Invest in Medellín Real Estate?

The first question you need to ask yourself is “why?”

Here are the most commonly stated reasons:

• I want an investment that produces a high monthly income
• I want a place to live/live part-time/retire in, or rent out
• I need a visa/want permanent residence

There is a big difference between making a home buying decision and an investment buying decision. In my experience, the places that make great homes to live in and show off to your friends (large apartments, fincas, etc.) are not usually the best ROI-producing investments.

Likewise, the best investment properties (generally smaller studios and one or two-bedroom short-term rental apartments and boutique hotels) are not usually where you want to live. It’s important to decide early on where on the spectrum you wish to be as a buyer and realize you can’t have it all.

We also have a lot of buyers wanting to buy real estate in Medellin because they want a visa/cedula/residency/second passport. I tell everyone in this category:

“BUY MEDELLÍN REAL ESTATE BECAUSE YOU THINK IT WOULD BE A GOOD INVESTMENT FOR YOU, BUT DON’T MAKE POTENTIALLY A BAD INVESTMENT BECAUSE ALL YOU NEED IS A VISA.”

If all you need is a Colombian visa then find a lawyer you like and find the solution for your case. Also remember that you can stay up to 180 days/year in Colombia up to 90 days at a time. And yes Colombia now offers their version of the digital nomad visa for up to 2 years albeit with a long list of rules and regulations. Real estate investment is still the most sure path to a Colombian visa/residence but you should focus on the quality of the investment vs. getting the visa itself.

Step 2:  Location, Location, Location

Heard this before? It’s true everywhere on the planet, and it’s true here in the Medellín real estate market as well. Once you’ve contemplated either living or investing here, you need to turn your head to where.

Looking for an Investment?

If what you want is a high-income producing investment, then you should be looking at a very short list of high-quality, very well-located buildings with modern amenities that ideally allow for (legal) short-term rentals, probably in Poblado and potentially Laureles, where you’ll find 90% of the demand from foreign business and leisure travelers. Most hotel properties are owned by investment groups large and small (just like ours) and also represent high yielding dividend assets.

Note: Just being inside Poblado or Laureles is not enough. These are huge neighborhoods with large parts that are not ideal for rentals/investment class real estate. You should be near very specific arterial routes, with good amenities, and close to commercial centers, restaurants, groceries, parks, or else your renters will eventually find something better! Probably 99% of visitors/tourists are walking/UBERing so don’t make the location difficult for them.

Looking for a Place to Live? The World Is Your
Oyster.

Medellin real estate can go anywhere from studio apartments to farmland, Laureles, Bello, Sabaneta, and everything in between across a population of almost 4 million people and 10s of thousands of buildings (remember, most modern Medellin real estate is high-density, multi-family, high-rise. FYI: The closest thing to an MLS/Zillow in Colombia is here at FincaRaiz. While many of the properties are duplicated, improperly listed, or bait listed to get your contact, it’s a good place to start for interest in the local market and building your knowledge and learning some general comps.

Choosing a place to live is like choosing what clothes you want to wear today, it’s entirely personal, and no one in our office will talk you out of a specific location unless you’re truly making a mistake.

Personally, I’m partial to Poblado (Golden Mile, Alejandria, Provenza, Astorga, Manila) and Laureles (Park 1, 2, Avenida Jardin, La 70) for places to live and invest. Not to mention in 2020, we launched one of the most beautiful and successful projects in Laureles, Laureles Factory Lofts.

Step 3: Decision Time. New vs. Old Construction

There are two philosophies on this topic:

1. Buy something old and “cheap,” fix it up nice, rent it out, flip it, etc.
2. Buy something new, modern, no need for modifications/improvements, furnish and collect rent.

Older Buildings

There are some beautiful, high-quality, and superbly well-located older buildings in the Medellin real estate market.

Properly renovated (or not), they could be the kind of places you want to live in with large spacious bedrooms, lots of parking, and an abundance of storage space, maid and nanny quarters.

If you’ve done renovations before, understand the language, or can do some of the work yourself, you may also be up for the challenge in Colombia. Most of these are horror stories like anywhere else in the world renovating older buildings, so be forewarned.

Also, older buildings are often amenity-poor with high administration fees, which can affect the demand as a rental/resale and, therefore, your return as an investor. Having said that, Colombians are totally allergic to high HOA/administration fees and will sometimes be willing to dump older buildings at prices below replacement costs! 

But renting older apartments in buildings with elderly/wealthy neighbors can also be a problem. Who do you think rents large 3-5 bedroom apartments? Groups of younger, single males, large noisy families. Not always consistent with being a good neighbor.

Many of these older buildings are instating minimum 6-12 month rental periods to avoid the influx of short-term and often illegal furnished rentals. However, there are some success stories as well. Over the years, our clients bought out the residents (mostly seniors) in the Ayamonte Provenza building and successfully converted it to short-term rentals. We’ve had a 90% average short-term occupancy rate in this building. Talk about teaching old dogs new tricks.

New/Modern Buildings

Newer buildings usually have a long list of amenities that your renters often want to enjoy (pool, gym, sauna/Turkish bath, jacuzzi, floor-to-ceiling views, open kitchens, modern layouts, finishings, etc.).

Combined with a lack of buildable land and an ever-strict city planning department, this is why new construction in Poblado is approaching $12,000,000+ pesos/square meter in 2022 (almost $2500 USD/sq meter or approx $230 sq/ft). And other buildings like Energy Living, where we manage the vast majority of sales and rentals, you’ll find the highest prices (and rental rates!) in Medellín at the moment at $14,000,000 COP/m2 and beyond.

However, higher prices in newer buildings come with higher rental prices as well, so the math often works out in your favor. That’s not to mention liquidity; selling in newer, professionally managed buildings is much easier. 

If the new building is designed with short-term rentals in mind like our Soul and Loma Verde projects (see all of our Medellin apartment rentals here), then you’re definitely buying into a secure and steady income-producing asset. Even during the height of the pandemic, nobody here lost money in any month during 2020.

The bottom line is that there is no right or wrong answer here. There are pros and cons to new and older construction, and Medellín real estate buyers just need to apply their personal or financial preferences to every option.

At the end of this article, I’ve included some special notes that apply to buying in pre-construction projects and go over opportunities, risks, and important questions to ask the promoters and developers as well.

Step 4:  Money and Banking: To SAS or Not to SAS

You want to set up your Colombian bank accounts as soon as possible if you’re going to make a purchase. It can 2-4 weeks to open an account, and the sellers will take your offer a lot more seriously if they know you’ve already gone through this phase.

Too many foreigners start negotiating without even having the ability to execute financially, and I’ve seen good deals fall through as a result of anxious Colombians who just move on if they don’t sign and get paid quickly.

Alianza Valores is a great Colombian banking resource (our preference) and one of the only ones who really know how to handle foreign investment in Medellin real estate. Many foreign investors know Felipe Chavez (private banker) personally, and you can contact him directly at fchavez@alianza.com.co. Local banks like Bancolombia, while they have a strong retail brand and presence, are very difficult/impossible banks to work with as a foreigner, even though they can be owned by foreigners (like Scotiabank Colpatria). Alianza has been the easiest to do business with for us during the last 10 years. 

Buying Within an SAS

At this same point in time, you may also want to make the decision of whether to place the property in your name or in the name of your company, which has a two to three-week setup time.

An “SAS” in Colombia is somewhat analogous to an American LLC with the same kinds of rights, flexibility, and legal separation of your assets.

I have personally decided to maintain almost all of my properties in the name of my company because it affords me lots of flexibility tax-wise, and I don’t particularly like my name showing up in public records. However, I’m a tax resident and run a 300-employee business, so I have a lot of flexibility with write-offs, depreciation, etc.

But if you’re a non-resident buying just a couple of properties it probably doesn’t make a lot of sense, not to mention the 35% tax rate. Maintaining a SAS in Colombia is a lot more time-consuming and much more expensive than in other countries. I’ve seen some lawyers and accountants recommend an SAS blindly to foreigners because they can charge more fees vs. an SAS being the right ownership/tax vehicle for the client. Also winding down a SAS after you’ve disposed of its assets is even more expensive and time-consuming than the start-up. 

See near the end of this article for a more comprehensive update on Colombian taxes in 2023 including some advice on when to consider a SAS for your Medellin real estate holdings.

Step 5:  The Negotiation and Offer

It’s important to know where the Medellin real estate investment process ends before you begin. This is often the most critical part of any real estate transaction, especially in Colombia.

This is also where you want your lawyer and real estate agent heavily involved; a full title study if you have any doubts about who the seller is, a purchase contract that works for you, negotiation advice, and all the paperwork at the end of the transaction.

Colombians (Paisas at least) rarely use lawyers for Medellin real estate conveyance, instead placing the administrative burden on the usually unexperienced agent to do the running around in the notary. But as a foreigner you’re probably paying a lawyer to make this error and stress free. Do your homework and pick the lawyer that you think will accomplish that for you. Beware of lawyers who don’t specialize in real estate transactions. Medellin lawyers especially are famous for not disclosing what they know how to do (well) and don’t. This is not the time for a legal novice or generalist.

Also, remember when doing transactions with locals that Colombians are, on average, pretty sophisticated buyers and sellers of property. Most Colombians don’t trust the stock market or even government or corporate bonds, so buying and selling property is much more common and emotional here than you would think.

They can also be shrewd negotiators. We once saw an 86-year-old woman refuse to negotiate in any way on her terms or price on a very expensive piece of real estate she was selling directly without any agency representation. She repeatedly told us, “the buyer can take it or leave it, I’m in no rush, I have lots of time left.” Eventually, we closed the deal, but she got her price.

The seller will let you know if the price is negotiable. Or, you may need to ask upfront. If the price is clearly inflated, then that’s another invitation to negotiate (low-ball) or just walk away. A good Medellin real estate agent who is interested in a long-term relationship with you will help you navigate this – it’s their job. If you have doubts, then ask for a professional, 3rd party appraisal (at your choosing and cost) to have an extra data point for your negotiations. Overpaying in unfortunately common for foreigners. I’ve seen many sellers who overpaid sometimes 2, 3, 4 years of future appreciation, and then expect some unreasonable XYZ% return on their investment.

Step 6:  The Purchase Agreement

A verbal negotiation on price and terms ends with a signed and notarized purchase agreement in Spanish known as the promesa de compraventa, a legally binding document.

While the Paisas are known for their foreign hospitality, you may see that stop when it comes to money matters.

It’s not uncommon for your Colombian negotiating partner to make demands or renegotiate verbal offers right up until the actual promesa is signed in the notary. Words and handshakes mean a lot less in Colombia than they might in your home country. But a signed and notarized document is where the buck stops and you have a deal.

Don’t take it personally, it’s just a part of the culture to negotiate hard and up until the 11th hour here. Feel free to make demands you deem necessary, no one will be offended, it’s just business.

We’ve seen this process take from three days to three months end to end. It all depends on the buyer and seller, strong legal/notary support, the existence of a mortgage will delay closing, etc. Every transaction is somewhat unique. Hotel (condo and boutique) investments can often be simplified due to the standardized nature of the contracts.

The most important clauses to be negotiated in a promesa de compraventa are the following:

1. What’s Included in the Price?

Parking, storage, appliances, ceiling lamps, furniture?

Generally speaking, anything that isn’t fastened to the apartment the owner may want to remove, including light bulbs, curtains, appliances, etc. We’ve seen some weird stuff, so just get it in writing (again, in writing!) if there’s something you want to keep.

2. Deposit/Down Payment or the Anticipo

This is to secure the deal and is usually 10%-20%, but if the owner has a mortgage, they may ask for more so the mortgage can be cleared.

We’ve seen up to 50%, and for the right price, it may be a good deal for the buyer to make a larger anticipo. Sometimes you can negotiate lower prices for higher down payments as well.

This can cause heartburn to some foreigners because you are technically giving the seller some money without getting anything (like a title) in return—there’s no escrow.

However, you are, in fact, protected by the penalty clause, which is a serious legal matter if not satisfied (see the next point).

3. Penalty Clause or the Cláusula Penal

This states that the buyer and seller do what they are contracting to do in the promesa on the timelines and in the amounts of money that they promise.

After signing this legal document, if you don’t proceed as a buyer, you could lose your anticipo, and if you don’t proceed as a seller, you could be sued and have your property “embargoed” with a lien for the amount of the agreed upon penalty, usually 10-20 percent.

4. Commercial and Declared Values (AKA the Valor Comercial or Valor Catastral)

In Colombia, like much of Latin America, there usually exists a gap between commercial values (what you pay) and declared values (what goes on the title). 

You absolutely need your agent or lawyer to advise you on what is right for you here, especially if you are talking about visa/residency matters, as every case is unique. Since the 2019/2020 tax reform, the government is closing this loophole of under-declaring property values. The best practice is to require the full value of the deed unless you want to assume the seller’s tax obligations when you eventually go to sell. There are some interesting flexibility options here for negotiating out the value of furniture in a furnished apartment. 

5. Settling of Any Mortgages/Liens

In Colombia, it is impossible to transfer titles (notary conveyance) unless the property is free of mortgages/liens/building administration/property taxes.

It’s good protection for the buyer, but it can delay the process by up to a month due to lack of escrow and bank processing of the mortgage, etc.

A good lawyer is on top of this every day to ensure this is done in weeks and not months.

6. Proration of Taxes/Rent/HOA Fees

This is just a math exercise. The property taxes need to be paid for the entire calendar year and then prorated to the date of title transfer or if the seller is giving you keys early, date of delivery, or entrega.

Same for monthly HOA fees, and in the case of buying a property that is currently generating rental income, that rental income should be split and prorated appropriately as well between buyer/seller.

7. The Signing of Escrituras or the Titles

The promesa will state a date, time, and location of a notary visit/signing for all parties to exchange final payment via cheque or bank transfer, hand over keys, and sign the title over from the previous owner to the new owner.

This is essentially where you finish the purchase process.

Step 7:  Final Paperwork and Deed Registration

If all has gone smoothly, then you’ve signed titles in the notary, exchanged cheques/money transfers, paid your share of notary fees/taxes (budget 1.25-1.50 percent of the purchase price plus lawyer fees for closing costs), and have keys to your new place. Closing costs shouldn’t exceed 2% of the value of the property you buy.

There are a series of steps, however, that your lawyer should now do to make sure everything flows properly in the department of Registro, which oversees land titles/registries. Again inexperienced real estate lawyers will often disappear here once their fees are paid.

This process ends with a refresh of the certificado de tradición y libertad, which can be pulled online and will show that you are the official owner and that all electronic records have been updated. Don’t forget about this part!

We’ve seen errors in registro after 20 years when someone thinks they owned property that they didn’t wind up being a nightmare. 

You’re also now free to instruct your lawyer to start the central bank registration of your invested funds if you intend to use your property purchase for visa/residency purposes.

Obtaining a Colombian ID card (the cedula) will follow as well.  But, you are essentially done. Enjoy.

2023 Update #1: Post COVID Colombia

As I pen this update in 2023, we are in the midst of yet another strong year for the Medellin real estate market unlike many other parts of the world. Inflation is running high, construction costs have spiraled up, interest rates are high, but the economy is generally quite strong. These post-COVID stimulus effects have the result of pushing prices up across the board for Medellin real estate. You can see local news commentary summarizing the post-COVID effects here (La Republica) and here (InfoBae). Colombians generally love real estate because it is such a great inflation hedge over the long term beating most if not all other asset classes long-term.

2023 Update #2: Remote Work

Ten or fifteen years ago, remote work was usually associated with hiding from your boss and guilt of not being in the office and visible to your staff or co-workers. Five to ten years ago many online entrepreneurs were starting to discover the attractiveness is remote work in Medellin. Time zones, climate, quality and cost of living all ranked high on lists of remote work commentators like Nomad List. Post-COVID, the acceptance of flexible, hybrid, remote work, working-vacations globally have led to a massive influx of foreigners to Medellin more than any other city in Colombia. However as local housing prices get pushed up, the people and politicians in Medellin like many cities in the world are starting to ask, “how much is too much?”. 

2023 Update #3: The Gustavo Petro Presidency

The last year was important for Colombia politically because we elected a new congress in March 2022, and a new president on August 7, 2022, Gustavo Petro. Colombia has become more politically divided (it seems just like everywhere else in the World) than I have seen in the past. The media coverage in both Colombia and globally about the elections was a story of “Left” vs. “Right” with lots of fear-mongering on all sides. The reality of Colombian politics is that the country has been the most stable democracy in the history of Latin America and is the closest ally of the United States in the region, whether you like that fact or not. I don’t think this will change. Colombian congress is today “center-right,” and keeping the President in check from making large reforms that could hurt the economy. 

Check out these “Amigos” here after the election results.

2023 Update #4: Taxes

While this is not an article about Colombian taxes it would be remiss without some commentary/update as there is a new tax reform/regime in place as of 2023. If you’re thinking about becoming a tax resident (= 183 of the last 365 days) in Colombia you should read this for a good summary from PWC. Colombia has global income and wealth taxes that could affect you but generally you won’t be double taxed (when using tax credits). Keep in mind that having a resident visa doesn’t mean necessarily that you are a tax resident; tax residency is strictly as I defined above.

Almost all companies in Colombia pay 35% corporate tax rates unless abated by special programs such as those that were (in the past) available for hotels (like ours!) where the rate could be as low as 9%. Dividends paid to non-residents have a 20% WHT automatically applied whether paid to local or foreign accounts it doesn’t matter.

Income in Colombia is taxed at progressive rates for residents at up to 39% and flat rates for non-residents at 35%. Assets can be depreciated for residents (including SAS) at a rate of 45 years = 2.22%/year. If your tax rates at home are >35% then you’ll use a tax credit for what you pay in Colombia to avoid double taxation. If your tax rate is <35% then income earned in Colombia will unlikely result in additional taxes paid at home.

My advice is unfortunately not to trust most accountants in Colombia and you should seek true professionals affiliated with international networks, here is a decent list. A bad accountant (most are bad) will mean you will pay more in fines than you will ever pay in accounting fees. When the totality of your income in Colombia is subject to source retention taxes (like we offer at Casacol) you have no obligation to file in Colombia.

Special Topic: Buying in Pre-Construction Projects

When buying Medellin real estate from pre-construction “developers” it is important to note that a slightly different process is involved. I put developers in quotes because everyone with a graphic designer and a friend who owns a buildable lot seems to be a developer now with a fancy presentation deck. Always be careful about who you are doing business with and do some diligence about who is really behind all the fancy logos on the “Team.” 

The pre-construction purchase process often starts with signing a no obligation hoja de negociación or a letter of intent with the builder or developer to hold your place. You may be asked to put a small amount of money down at this stage, and it can be from 1-5 percent and usually gets deposited at the Fiducia (escrow) account.

Fiduciaries in Colombia are regulated financial entities that offer an escrow-like service to builders/developers to handle all the money/contracts associated with a new development. They guarantee nothing, however. If the project aborts, they have little obligation to help you out, it’s mostly symbolic confidence. You NEED to know who you are doing business with, their experience, track record, and property management strategy. Conflicts with developers and fiduciary companies in Colombia take years to be resolved when you need to go to court. Many of these issues can be avoided by doing your homework ahead of time.

The Fiducia does offer some safety and organization to pre-construction projects however because the Fiduciary will enforce the buyers’ contracts as well to make sure they are paying on time, etc., paying the builder in installments as he meets sales goals. The Fiduciaries act as traffic cops to ensure buyers and builders do their part on time.

Instead of signing a promesa de compraventa for new construction, you will sign the encargo with the Fiduciaria, which serves a similar purpose and legal obligation as a promesa de compraventa of a titled property.

“IN GENERAL, AFTER ALL MY YEARS OF WITNESSING BOTH SUCCESSFUL AND FAILED PRE-CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS, MY CONCLUSION WOULD BE TO WATCH THE MARKETING STRATEGY OF THE DEVELOPER/PROMOTER VERY CLOSELY.”

The most successful developers either build for themselves (build to own – because they believe so much in the product or using bank financing) or market to their existing clients in a private fashion without fancy sales rooms, without “Call now” banners hanging from the sidewalk. No billboards, no Instagram, no free steak knives. Because, by definition, they have a long-term successful money-making relationship with those investors who return to invest again and again.

“One-timers” are going to have the fanciest marketing materials, renders, videos, and social media you’ve ever seen. It’s hard not to look at their Instagram ads, because they are good! Let’s be honest, real estate needs to be marketed to be sold, but the most successful developers sell out projects in days or weeks with a simple “Hey old clients, we have a new project” email to their client base, not with social media. Younger or small investors (<$50k USD) can often fall prey to the sizzle vs. the steak. Facebook and Instagram social media have become completely polluted with Medellin real estate projects in recent years that mostly never see the light of day.

In Summary: 8 Questions to Ask Before You Invest in a Pre-Construction Medellin Real Estate Project if You Have Any Doubts

1. Who’s the whole team? Lead developer, architecture, structural and civil engineering, project management, sales/promotion? Resume (hoja de vida) for each team member.
2. What stake does any/all of the team have in the final project? Or are they just going to sell out to investors? Or has the “team” padded their profits with participation just to tell you, “we are already 50% sold, don’t miss out?”
3. Is there a construction license approved? Ask to see the submitted plans in PDF, and compare them to what you are being sold, floor by floor. 
4. Does the builder/GC have any gray hair? Medellin is full of junior engineers looking for their first real project. Personally I don’t want 20-somethings making my structural design decisions.
5. If they are claiming something like “X% already sold, act fast,”—how many buyers and how many units/shares have they bought each? Have they done business with you before? Can I speak with 2 or 3 of them personally? Ask for a reference from an existing client.
6. If it’s an investment property, who’s the property manager or operator? Check their resume, references, experience, and track record. Compare their REAL, delivered, historical ROIs, and track record of meeting expectations to what is being promised/suggested by the sales promoter.
7. Financial engineering, do your ROI projections include appreciation (hope and a prayer, especially in $USD terms), or are they cash on cash returns? Big difference!
8. Liquidity, what about when I sell? Who’s going to help me exit the investment in the future? Because if the business isn’t working, never mind about price/value, because liquidity=0.

Thoughts on $USD/$COP in 2023

Today (July 2023 update), the USD stands at $4200 COP, a historically very low point for the COP during a year of high volatility. Many people ask me for my thoughts on what the COP will do in the next X months/years. I have no idea. Nobody knows. When I started investing in 2008 the COP was a strong as 1800/$1 USD. The trend in the last 15 years is simply that politicians in Colombia can’t help themselves but print money and inflate the COP to pay for short-term projects. I don’t expect that to change. It means that you need to think of price and appreciation, rents, etc., in both USD and COP terms to build a proper perspective. Medellin real estate (and real estate in general) historical absorbs inflation very well. But over the long term one should been reasonable about appreciation potential in USD terms. This is a market to extract high ROI and rents, not always appreciation. High quality assets that can be priced for rent/sale in USD vs. COP will serve the Medellin real estate investor well. This is 100% our focus as a company.

Medellin Real Estate Bubble?

Here’s another question I get asked a lot, prices are way up (in COP terms) in the last 5, 10, years, is Medellin in a real estate bubble? It seems like ever since 2008, everyone is a bubble watcher. The first question I always ask is, do you know how an investment bubble is defined?

AN INVESTMENT BUBBLE TYPICALLY GOES THROUGH STAGES OF 1) BOOM, THEN 2) EUPHORIA, THEN 3) PROFIT-TAKING, THEN 4) PANIC/SELLOFF.

Given that foreign investment in Colombia is still low as a % of the market, credit is relatively hard to get for locals, mortgages are not possible for foreigners, mortgage interest rates are high (18%+ in 2023), and mortgage down payment requirements are 30% (by law) and that Colombia already learned dearly from their 1998-1999 real estate bubble and subsequent financial crisis, I don’t see conditions for a bubble in Medellin real estate. I wouldn’t even say we are in a “boom.” I think the market here, on average, is well balanced between supply and demand. And today in 2023, the costs of construction have increased so much due to an ever decreasing COP vs USD, I don’t see how prices fall (in COP terms). Regardless, I always enjoy these debates with our new and existing clients.

Summary

Buying property in a foreign country like Colombia can be exciting and very rewarding both personally and financially, as I can attest to in my experience after 15 years of investing and doing business here, helping primarily foreigners find high-quality real estate investments in Medellin.

The key is to seek advice from people who are licensed, affiliated with local and national organizations, trained, specialized, and have a deep set of knowledge and experience in doing what you need them to do.

At Casacol, I’ve built a team and ecosystem of highly trained agents, project managers, expert property managers, legal experts, bankers, and accountants to help foreigners looking to invest in Medellín.

Medellín Living readers can read more about my company here and can contact me directly at sales@casacol.co to discuss their investment priorities at any time.

Thanks for reading, I hope this article has been useful for all.

Brad.

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Salon Malaga is an old-timey bar perfect for tango and bolero lovers. When setting foot in here, you’ll be able to travel back in time and feel like you are in one of those old days bohemian movies.

Are you curious about what you can find there? Then let me share an honest personal review about Salon Malaga with you.  Let’s get into it!

A Brief History of Salon Malaga 

This bastion of the musical tradition of yesteryear was born in 1957 and founded by Gustavo Arteaga. Its main objective was to cultivate popular music as an art. Art is enjoyed to the fullest regardless of age or social status.

Recently, this place has grown in popularity. A big reason for that is because many famous artists and music figures of yesteryear have graced the halls of the Salon.

One of the charms of Salon Malaga is the collection of photographs on permanent display. You can look at photos of Medellín in the first 50 years of the twentieth century. There have been glamorous artists who performed there. 

The Gold Record was awarded to Salon Malaga by CBS in 1968, in a competition in which it ranked first. Today, it’s a historical and cultural heritage of Medellin, where you can learn much more about history.

If that isn’t impressive enough, Gustavo Arteaga is one of the most important collectors of yesteryear music. He has a collection of 78 revolutions records with real musical jewels that are difficult to find anywhere else.

How to Get There

Public transportation is the best way to get there. This Salon is just a few steps from the San Antonio metro station (Route A). If you prefer to take the bus, you can take one of these:

• 133D
• C6E2
• M36
• T4 016

It is not simple to drive there since parking your car can be a bit tricky. The area in front of the venue is more pedestrian friendly and used for the EnCicla bike system. So if you skipped leg day, this one is in your favor.

Getting there by taking a rideshare app or taxi is also a good option. 

IG: @salon.malaga

Website:https://salonmalaga.com/

Address: Carrera 51 N° 45-80 San Antonio Metro Station

Events at Salon Malaga

Throughout the week, you can attend various events and activities. Expect to be treated to exquisite dance shows, meetings, and much more.

On their website, you can find the schedule of their events that are available every week. If you want to catch an event with top-rated artists, you should check their Instagram page. 

Now let’s see the events you can attend!

Tango Shows

Enjoy the best live performers every Saturday from 5:30 p.m. Tango is a frequent art in the Salon and is always accompanied by live music. Tango shows are the most popular events, so you better make your reservations for the shows beforehand. 

Tango is one of Arteaga’s favorite genres, so this place is one of the dance floors where the annual Medellín International Tango Festival takes place.

Events like this are also a meeting place for true connoisseurs of tango.  Guests take hours talking about the subject, drinking wine, and sharing vinyl gems from their collections.

Musical Meetings

The second Wednesday of every month at 5:30 pm is dedicated to live ancient music. These nights are a perfect cultural space to share ideas, meet new people, and practice some Spanish language. 

If you didn’t know anything about the Colombian music of yesteryear, musical meetings are the perfect spot to learn about it. Some of the genres you can enjoy are:

• Bambuco
• Opera
• Zarzuela
• Bolero
• Criolla
• Porro
• Waltz

Bolero Thursdays

One of the most popular events at Salon Malaga, and for which you have to make reservations in advance, are the Bolero Thursdays. This event is a relaxing opportunity to take a sip of your favorite beverage while enjoying live musicians performing beautiful old-world songs.

This bohemian music event attracts locals, foreigners, and audiences of all ages. The atmosphere created around this event is very casual and elegant. Even if you don’t understand Spanish, the bolero is a music genre that doesn’t need words to express emotions and feelings.

Viejoteca

Every Sunday from 2:00 pm, the dance floor is open to anyone who wants to practice a few moves or admire the perfect dance moves of authentic old music lovers. 

Making a Reservation

You only need to book a table on Saturdays, the most popular day of the Salon. On the other days, entry to Salon Malaga is free, and you’ll easily be able to find a place to sit.

To make a reservation, guests must send a bank transfer, a photo of the receipt to Whatsapp, the number of people, the reservation name, and an ETA.

A phone number is located on the website if you have any questions.

Spend an Evening at Salon Malaga 

Without a doubt, Salon Malaga is one of the Medellin must-visits that you cannot miss. If you want to relive the memory of the old Medellin and discover a little more of its musical heritage, spend an evening at this yesteryear music sanctuary. 

So, what do you say? Are you thinking of practicing your dance floor moves at Salon Malaga? Let us know in the comments!

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Luckily, for bubble tea fans in Colombia, you’ll find mixtures and flavors that you will not find anywhere else. Whether it’s a small stall in a mall or a specialized bubble tea shop, I’m sure you’ll find a flavor that fits you perfectly.

Thirsty yet? Then let’s get into the best spots to get this highly-customizable drink!

Momotea

By far, the best place to get your bubble tea is Medellin. It has even been recommended several times by famous international and national stars such as Greeicy and Mike Bahia – a couple of Colombian singers.

This brand brings inspiration from the Japanese teahouse culture to create their food and desserts. However, they add that exotic touch with different flavors such as passionfruit or maracuyá.

Momotea is very popular with locals, so you’ll usually find some waiting lines to try their latest creations. This local chain has managed to expand throughout the city, and now you can find it in:

• Arkadia Mall
• Santafe Mall
• Euro La Frontera
• Viva Envigado Mall
• Viva Laureles Mall

This bubble tea shop is also deeply committed to taking care of the planet. It offers bamboo straws. Also, reusing cups as pots for small plants is commonly done here. After enjoying your drink, you can plant a small cactus or seed with it. 

Although I am a keen boba lover, I enjoy accompanying my drink with a snack or dessert. That’s not a problem for Momotea since they offer other delicacies, such as the Hong Kong waffle, which you can garnish with chocolate sauce or ice cream, to have that punch of sugar while adding both!

Most drink options and toppings are safe for vegans, but you can also choose gluten-free or lactose-free options. And If you’re not in the mood for bubble tea, you can always try other drinks like shaved ice, Italian sodas, summer tea, and more.

My bubble tea pick for this place is the premium coconut bubble tea, with a sweet flavor and soft texture. It’s also very aromatic and adds a great source of fiber and protein.

IG: @mimomotea

Address (Poblado): Calle 185 No. 45 – 03. Santafe Mall, El Poblado, Medellín Colombia

T4 Oviedo

T4 is a chain store that originated in Taiwan. The first T4 Oviedo was built back in 2004.  Over the years, they have become the ‘Starbucks’ of bubble tea. There are already 12 other countries T4s are in. There are shops in Asia, Europe, North America, and South America.

In addition to finding traditional Asian flavors such as green tea matcha, milk tea agar, and others, they play with Colombian flavors, such as black passion fruit and turmeric tea, a choice you’ll not regret.

The most particular flavors you’ll find sneaking into the menu are:

• Flower tea with rose
• Osmanthus
• Ophelia aloe

Also, they prepare their version of bubble waffles and offer a wide variety of toppings to add some spice to your bubble tea. Some of them are:

• Pudin
• Tropical jelly
• Glass jelly
• Coffee jelly
• Aloe
• Agar

It’s also a place to get cozy and get some work done while enjoying your drink in a laid-back atmosphere. The wifi connection is strong enough and has a board game area. To top it all off, T4 also has provided comfortable seats since day 1.

My recommendation from T4 is green grapefruit tea with ginger, which boasts beneficial qualities for metabolism and weight loss.

IG: @t4colombia

Address: Cra. 43a #6s-15, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Teamo Teahouse

Located in Viva Envigado Mall, Teamo Teahouse is similar to a small traditional Japanese tea bar.  It offers typical flavors such as matcha tea, oolong tea, black tea, etc. Plus, you can turn your drink into bubble tea for a small extra price.

Also, If you were left wanting more of their tasty drinks and flavors, you should get the 1 L tea bottle. You can put it together according to your taste, just choose the type of tea, flavor it, and customize it with your favorite toppings.

The bottle or tea preparation kits are the perfect excuse to take to your hotel or Airbnb as a souvenir.

For this particular bubble tea shop, there is no specific recommendation. There is just too much to choose from that depends on your taste. However, the most popular option is anything from the fruit tea menu with tapioca pearls. The most commonly sold-out flavors are usually matcha lemonade and lemon-watermelon.

IG: @teamoteahouseco

Address: Cra. 48 #32B Sur-139, Envigado, Antioquia

Starbucks

If you still can’t get away from the taste of your Starbucks, don’t fret!  There are many venues of this popular chain of cafes throughout the city.

Although this may be a familiar flavor for you, there are still new traditional flavors from Colombia, a blend of exotic Colombian fruits with the characteristic taste of Starbucks.

Just make sure to check the availability of the boba topping in advance.  The available toppings depend on what is in season.

IG: @starbuckscol

Address (Milla de Oro): Cra. 43A #7 Sur – 170, Medellín, El Poblado, Medellín

Unleash Your Love for Bubble Tea in Medellin

Now that you know where to get your boba fix while visiting Medellin, you can satisfy your sweet tooth in one of the many spots the city offers in its malls and busy neighborhoods. We’re sure you’ll love the great variety of exotic flavors!

Are you thinking of getting bubble tea? What’s your favorite flavor? Let us know in the comments!

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Not only for grabbing a bite, but this place is also a perfect option to take your friends or partner to events such as concerts, speaking events, dance performances, live music shows, and more.

Are you curious about this place? Then, there’s no time to lose! Let’s get into this uniqueness and let your picky eater side run wild!

Brief History of Mercado del Rio

Located in the El Poblado neighborhood, this building was formerly an old soap warehouse from the 30s and is closely involved in the industrialization process of the Medellin. In fact, due to the nearby railway lines operating at that time, the building has a triangular shape.

The remodeling of this place aimed to keep the industrialized style while elegant of that time. On the other hand, the designers wanted to maintain a dynamic indoor design with a steampunk touch.

How to Get There

Luckily, this place is right next to Regional avenue, one of the city’s main highways, it’s just a few miles south of the city’s downtown area, so it’s easy to get there from anywhere in Medellin.

The quickest way to get to Mercado del Rio is taking the metro and getting off at the Industriales station. From there you only have to walk 5 minutes. If you choose to take a bus, just get off at the bus stop on Avenida de Los Industriales and then turn the corner. You’ll be there in the blink of an eye.

As I don’t recommend driving there (because there are only limited and paid parking spots), you can also take a taxi, rideshare app, or use the EnCicla bike system if you’re not a fan of public means of transport.

IG: @mercadodelriomedellin

Address: Cl. 24 #48-28, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia. 

Inside the Gastro Market 

Whether looking for casual dining or a bar to get a round of drinks from strangers, this classy market has an option for everyone.

Restaurants

More than 30 restaurants offer a variety of national and international dishes, so you better bring an empty stomach and an open mind to taste haute cuisine food.

We all know a picky eater! Perhaps this article is describing you! Alas, don’t worry at all. Mercado del Rio is home to the top-notch eateries from Medellin. Tour the halls and food stalls, and you can travel to Spain, Peru, India, Korea,  Japan, and Argentina.

It would be criminal to have lunch or dinner and skip dessert. Fortunately, you can satisfy your sweet cravings with different kinds of candy, ice cream, waffles, and more. Just check out La Creperia and Alfamore, the most popular boutique sweet shops in the market. 

Coworking Cafe

If you’re looking for peace of mind to work in some business, you should look for a seat at Cafe Cowork Mercado, where you can enjoy the best quality Colombian coffee beans and a strong wifi connection.

Plus, they offer a variety of freshly baked desserts and pastries to unleash your sweet tooth.

Bars

After lunch or finishing work, relax with a glass of your favorite drink at any of the bars in Mercado del Rio. Wine, beer, champagne, or cocktails, in any case, you’ll find a new experience of mixology, liquor tasting, and live music to accompany your drink.

It is highly recommended to drop by the terrace where you’ll find Finestre, with the perfect late-night atmosphere and handcrafted drinks that will leave you speechless.

What to Expect

Beyond filling your stomach and fulfilling your cravings, Mercado del Rio is a meeting place for locals and tourists who want to spend time learning a little more about the Antioquian culture. 

Expect to be dazzled by the variety of weekly activities this market prepares for guests.

Workshops

Frankly, you can find workshops related to anything. Not only are there plenty of workshops related to food and alcohol, but there are also shops that are targeted to every part of the public so that you can include the little ones in some workshops.

At the time of my visit, I was able to participate in a kite-making workshop. If you didn’t know, August is the windiest month in Colombia, so children and adults are encouraged to make their kites.

Remember to check out their social networks from time to time to know the monthly schedule and book your place at the workshops. Usually, they’re pretty affordable and fun. Live a little, and don’t hesitate to participate in one!

Live Music Shows

You can find live music shows of all genres giving a soothing and chill atmosphere to your experience. 

Dance Performances

You’ll usually find dance performances at festivals held from time to time in the market, so check the social media pages.

There are typical Colombian dances with fun rhythms and beats anywhere you look.  There’s even an Argentine tango with an international audience. There are countless chances to groove the night away!

Festivals 

Better keep up to date, because many festivals last 1 or 2 days. They’re usually about food and drinks, but others invite the whole family together, such as the pet festival “Silleteros con cola“.

Coffee & Wine Tasting Experience

By far, the most popular activity is wine tasting and dining, since you have the chance to spend the day sharpening your senses and delighting your taste buds with eccentric drinks such as wine and coffee.

Great Food Awaits in Mercado del Rio

Picking up food and gorging yourself with tasty gourmet dishes is easy now that you know about Mercado del Rio, the real food-lover’s paradise. Have fun!

So, are you ready to start your food tour at Mercado del Rio? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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As a mixologist with years of experience under my belt, I’m here to guide you through the Medellin gin and tonic tour, take advantage of being in one of the most biodiverse countries in the world and add some exotic fruits to your cocktail.

Does this sound like something you might like? Keep on reading to know everything you need about these drinks in Medellin!

What Gin and Tonic Is

Gin and tonic or gin tonic have two main ingredients: gin and tonic water. The drink is served with some ice cubes to give freshness to your drink. Some bartenders also add lemon or orange zest to give an acid touch to the preparation.

Over the years, many variations of this enigmatic drink have emerged.  For example, the Spanish add more ice and dressings, depending on the type of gin. The cocktail is served here in a ball cup or cognac cup. This difference in the cup allows you to appreciate the aromas. 

In other parts of the world, it is common to add juice or a slice of lemon. Mixologists don’t recommend this since citrus destroys the characteristic bubbles of the cocktail.

Just for clarification: Don’t confuse this drink with Tom Collins’ gin and tonic, which uses a sweeter gin called Old Tom.

Brief History of Gin and Tonic 

Believe it or not, the roots of this drink date back to the 1850s, when the British monarchy took over India. British officers frequently suffered from malaria and used quinine powder to prevent, treat and cure it.

Ingredients such as sugar, gin, and soda are added to the drink to sweeten the flavor. 

Currently, the recipe has crossed the seas and has been redesigned by chefs and mixologists around the world, reaching what we know today as gin and tonic.

Fruits, flowers, flavorings, and lots of ice, made this drink a must-try in restaurants and bars worldwide.

The San Francisco World Spirits Winner

The best gin and tonic drinks are right here in Medellin. Juniper, a luxury cocktail brand, started in the San Javier neighborhood, the birthplace of Juan David Zapata, an industrial engineer and bartender with more than ten years of experience.

In San Francisco, there is the World Spirits Competition. There is a big battle for the best spirits and alcohol-based products. Colombia received a double gold medal in the bottled classic cocktails category.

Juniper surpassed brands that have been doing Gin Tonic in England for over 200 years. This win was a massive surprise in the country!

Juan David Zapata currently holds the award for the best bartender of Colombia 2018 and is ranked as one of the ten best bartenders in the world.

Best Gin and Tonic Spots in Medellin

Now that you know more about this drink and its history, it’s time to stop by the best bars and restaurants in the city and delight your taste buds with the best gin and tonic. Let’s take a look a the top picks!

Ammazza Gin Garden

By far, the best spot for gin and tonics in the city.  You’ll want to stay not only for the gin and tonic but also for the chill vibes and good food. This restaurant is perfect for having a meeting with your friends or inviting a date out. 

There are three venues for this restaurant, all located in busy areas of the city:

• Ammazza Laureles
• Ammazza Indiana
• Ammazza Provenza

In addition to Italian haute cuisine, beers, wines, and spirits, they have an extensive menu specializing in gin and tonics.

This extensive menu can be a little overwhelming at first. However, if you don’t know what to order, I recommend asking the bartender. After answering a few questions, the bartender will suggest a cocktail that fits your palate.

A popular pick for the night is the Plymouth. The Plymouth is very balanced in smell and taste. The cocktail has English gin, accompanied by Coriander, orange, and lemon bark.

Website:https://ammazza.cluvi.co/

Address: Cra. 76 #73b – 39, Medellín, Laureles, Medellín, Antioquia

Sputnik Bar

Sputnik proposes a unique space in Medellin with a galactic atmosphere and a new experience to spend a night relaxing with all kinds of drinks offered on its menu.

If you like techno or electronic music, this is the right place. Some of the genres that attract the majority of customers are:

• EBM
• New wave
• Synth-pop
• Electro
• Post-punk
• Cold wave
• Aggrotech

The bar celebrates its happy hour with a local Dj named Watto.  Occasionally, they have small festivals or techno with no cover fee.  Be sure to check their social networks to know which artists will perform.

As for its gin and tonic menu, you’ll find other variations, such as Hendrick’s gin and tonic, a blend of Hendrick’s gin, tonic water, and three thinly sliced rounds of Cucumber.

Website: https://sputnikbar.co/

Address: Av. 33 #76-28, Laureles, Medellín, Antioquia

Get Your Gin and Tonic in Medellin

Whether you want to try a gin and tonic for the first time or dare to put some exotic fruit in your cocktail, Medellin is the perfect place for your gin journey.

Go and find the gin and tonic that best suits your style and taste. Have fun!

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Where can you grab a cup of coffee from the best-tasting beans in the world? As a coffee purist, I’m here to convince you that the Marquee Hotel is the place.

If you find yourself strolling through the El Poblado neighborhood, grab some caffeine while you’re at it! There’s a lot to see. Stay energized. 

Sipping Some Coffee at the Marquee

At the hotel’s restaurant, Abbiocco by Carmen, you’ll have the chance to try a wide variety of coffee beans prepared in different artisan ways. But if you’re craving some lunch, try tasting their Italian-inspired cuisine peppered with Colombian fresh ingredients. 

Pay your respects to the gourmet chefs Carmen Angel and Rob Pevetts and tell them what you think!

The best part of this restaurant is its outdoor seating, decorated with pots and overgrown plants that give a perfect natural atmosphere for a peaceful coffee time.

After looking through the menu, you will understand the popularity of this restaurant. 

Choose to drink the traditional coffee, or go further and try your luck at the Caffe Speziale Menu (available from 9 am to 4 pm). Some of the caffeine classics are:

• Americano
• Espresso
• Macchiato
• Latte 
• Cappuccino
• Cold Brew Abbiocco

Medellin is a country with some of the highest quality beans in the world, Don’t miss the opportunity to try a coffee with a balanced aroma, body, acidity, and flavor.

Depending on the type of coffee you order and the number of servings desired, the waiter will bring the coffee machine you prefer. The options are:

• V-60
• Aeropress
• Chemex
• French press

There are three varieties of coffee offered by Abbiocco. Each one has different profiles, so if you don’t know what your style is yet, you can ask for some help from the barista.

1. Elegant: balanced profile attributed to traditional Colombian fermentation and drying methods.
2. Exotic: fruity profile, with strong flavors from experimental fermentation methods.
3. Gesha: Globally recognized variety characterized by fine attributes: floral aroma and flavor similar to tea.

The Desserts Menu

If you have room for dessert and are craving something sweeter than bitter (but tasty) coffee, the menu here will not disappoint.

The Fresas & nata is an almond sponge cake topped with brow butter buttercream and garnished with local fresh strawberries, jam, Colombian vanilla créme, and macadamias. This choice is an option that takes a rest from the citrus flavors of Colombian coffee.

Another well-known dish is the Affogato. The Affogato is a blend of hazelnut gelato, stracciatella gelato, cocoa, and rum truffle. The waiter will sometimes pour espresso brought directly from Tamesis, a small coffee-producing village southwest of Antioquia.

 Don’t forget about liqueurs such as sparkling wines, cocktails, and snacks!

Coffee Tasting Tour at the Marquee

If you want to get a coffee-tasting experience under your belt while in Medellin, you can book a tour with the best professional baristas in coffee brewing. Luckily, this activity isn’t exclusive to hotel guests, so you can get access to it even if you’re staying somewhere else.

Sip, smell and swirl this experience. It’s an educational yet fun activity to learn a little more about Colombian coffee, harvesting, production, treatment, and grinding until it reaches your morning cup.

Coffee tasting is affordable and only takes about an hour, so it’s perfect for a last-minute adventure. 

Getting to the Marquee Hotel

The Marquee Hotel is in one of the busiest and most hustling neighborhoods of Medellin, El Poblado. The Marquee has scenic walks and other tourist attractions in the city, like Parque Lineal La Presidenta and San Fernando Plaza.

When Using the metro, just get off at the Poblado station and walk for 15 minutes. Taxis or  ride-share apps are other alternatives.

Website:https://marqueemedellin.com/es/marquee-hotel-medellin/

Address: Cra. 38 #9A-13, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Go for an Afternoon Coffee at the Marquee

Despite the variety of beautiful cafes throughout El Poblado, your experience in the Marquee will stand out among the others.

Are you planning to visit the Marquee Hotel? What’s your favorite kind of coffee? Let us know in the comments!

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From vegetables with difficult-to-pronounce names to fruits that in other countries are considered a delicacy, you can take a walk around the different stalls around Medellin and experience some of the true paisa cultures.  

So, what do you say? Are you ready to light your taste buds with fresh delicacies directly from the garden? Then let’s look at the top farmer’s markets and bazaars.

Plaza de Mercado La America

Built in 1969, La America is a farmer’s market perfect for rainy days due to its indoor businesses.  Many locals advise visitors o try the Bandera paisa, a typical dish of this part of the country.

Here you’ll not only find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and traditional legumes from Colombia, but at this market, you can also find other services such as

• Artisan shops
• Coffee shops
• Liquor shops
• Pet shops
• Health food stores
• Tech store
• ATMs

The atmosphere is a little like India. There are crowded markets with people everywhere selling their products and farmers showing their freshest products.

However, what stands out most about this place are the flower shops full of stunning bouquets and gorgeous floral arrangements. The city of eternal spring never disappoints its visitors. 

If you missed the 2022 flower festival, take a walk around this place for a taste of the typical floral art of Medellin.

One of the charms of La America is the healthy nut market, not to mention the delicious aromas you can enjoy when you first step in. It’s the perfect opportunity to try new spices to garnish your dishes or bring home an exotic souvenir.

In addition to tasting the fruits of each small row of food stands, you can stay hydrated while strolling the stalls by tasting the juices (in water or milk) of fruits such as lulo, blackberry, mango, uchuva, guanabana, and many more.

Take the opportunity to have lunch in one of its 14 restaurants! Come hungry!

You can also order food delivery without having to leave your hotel or Airbnb.

Website: https://www.plazalaamerica.com/

Address: Cl. 45 # 79A – 100, La América, Medellín, Antioquia

Placita de Florez

Located in the Comuna 10 or La Candelaria, Placita de Florez is also an old farmer’s market of Medellin that opened in 1891. In its early years, called Mercado de Oriente. The peasants of Santa Elena came to sell the fruits and vegetables of the seasonal harvest.

Despite being a slightly smaller market, Placita de Florez still manages to supply groceries and other family basket products to more than 300,000 residents and tourists in Medellin.

The last floor of the shop has beautiful floral arrangements. Many people also find other pot plants or floral and aromatic plants to grow in their garden.

On the other two floors, you can find a wide variety of foods such as meats, fruits, health food stores, candle shops, sweets, ice cream shops, and much more.

You can even find a small shop where they sell arepas based on different types of corn flour, such as Peto corn or Choclo corn, definitely something new to try on your trip to Medellin.

Website: https://www.placitadeflorez.com/

Address: Carrera 39 # 50-25 Medellín, Colombia

Plaza Minorista Jose Maria Villa

Plaza Minorista is a more authentic experience of an informal farmer’s market. The main goal of the business is for farmers and informal vendors looking to sell their products at better prices.

That is why it’s still one of the most crowded and bustling markets, usually on weekends, when most locals get up early for vegetables.

Being at Plaza Minorista feels like being in a small town filled with rows of small warehouses and other stalls of fruit and vegetable baskets stacked on top of each other.

This market is unique because it hustles and bustles early in the morning. The products are harvested the day before their sale, which makes the quality so fresh!

Many packages arrive early and are transported directly from the truck to the food stall racks.

This market is a great family outing for those looking to taste the most exotic delicacies and chat with the local vendors. 

Website: https://www.plazaminorista.com/sitio/inicio

Address: Calle 55A # 57-80, Medellin, Colombia

Mercado La Presidenta

An outdoor farmer’s market perfect for organic grocery shopping on a sunny day in Medellin. You can also find other items from the family basket, such as natural honey, spices, exotic fruits, juices, and more.

Mercado La Presidenta is in the El Poblado neighborhood. It is a busy spot dedicated to promoting the consumption of green food free of chemicals and preservatives.

Website: https://medialab.eafit.edu.co/raices-medellin/mercado-la-presidenta-2/

Address: Parque Lineal La Presidenta – Cl. 8 #42-25, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Enjoy the Farmer’s Markets Tour at Medellin

Whether you want to start a healthier lifestyle or try the most exotic fruits that seem to come from a sci-fi story, you can’t miss this tour that promises to show you a lot of new flavors and textures and teach you something new!

So, what do you say? Will you try your luck in Plaza Minorista or take a quiet walk in La America? Let us know in the comments!

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Having a little bit of finger-pointing about where to find the best fresh ingredients with the top quality to fulfill the dream of having a fitness lifestyle and accompanying your workout never hurts.

That’s why we prepared for you a list of the top organic grocery stores in Laureles where you can find everything you need to start your healthy diet and discover new flavors and textures. 

Let’s jump in!

Alimentos Sostenibles

By far, the best organic grocery store in Laureles. Alimentos Sostenibles is located in the heart of Laureles.  However, there are other venues in the city like San Lucas and Mall Lemont.

Finding your way around is very easy. Located in the Laureles Mall (129 Store),  these shops are popular amongst locals for the wide variety of  options. Non-vegan, vegan, and vegetarian brand products are sold here. Also, If you want to find products that fit a specific diet, try:

• Gluten-free products
• Fat-free products
• Organic groceries
• Energetic products 

One of the most popular products, the vegan popsicles,  are made with sweetened almond milk and low-calorie stevia. 

The entire catalog of products is on the website, so you can do the market shopping without leaving home. Delivery can take 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your location.

Check out these organic stores that offer everything needed for a specific diet or shopping on the go. treat yourself with a low-calorie snack.

Website:https://www.alimentossostenibles.com.co/

Address: Calle 37, Mall de Laureles # 80-32 Lc.129, Medellín, Antioquia

Saludpan

Saludpan is a restaurant and health food store that competes with Alimentos Sostenibles for the top place on the list. Saludpan is a perfect place for lovers of healthy food.

There is usually  a long line of people waiting to have lunch or buy something from the store, so please come with patience! This restaurant is completely vegan and vegetarian, so you’ll not find any meat dishes. If that disappoints, some imitations are very convincing!

Among the other products found in the eco shop:

• Raw food 
• Wheat bread
• Products based on vegetable protein (Chorizo, lentil burgers, jam, etc.)

Do not miss the Garden Saturdays! 10 am only on Saturdays, the store is full of fruits and vegetables recently harvested from Tierra Paraíso, completely free of pesticides and fungicides.

If you run out of ideas about what to cook for lunch or dinner, check the recipe book of vegan and vegetarian dishes on the Saludpan website.

An insider tip for lunch at Saludpan is the raw lasagna, with layers of zucchini, mushrooms, vegetables, sprouts, almond cream cheese, avocado, and dehydrated tomato paste. This meal also comes with a fresh salad. 

Website:https://saludpan.com/sitio/index.php

Address: Cq. 4 #70-84, Laureles, Medellín, Antioquia

Carulla

Carulla is a big supermarket chain where there are national and international products. Carullas are mostly located in Laureles and Poblado. Some items in Carulla are familiar to those sold  in US supermarkets. 

Most stores have a café, a snack bar inside, and a place to sit and enjoy your food. It’s a very convenient spot to have lunch while grocery shopping.

The things that most stand out at Carulla are the colorful shelves full of fruits and vegetables. 

They are so vibrant that it catches the eye in an instant! 

In Medellin, there are multiple stores located all over the city.  Grocery shopping or getting a snack is accessible even when leaving the Laureles neighborhood.

Some locals think Carulla is expensive compared to other big stores in Medellin.

While that may be the case, many products are reasonably priced. 

Carulla also allows you to shop online, then pick up the bags at the store. Feel free to have the bags delivered to your hotel or Airbnb instead. 

Website:https://www.carulla.com/

Address: Transversal 39B, Cq. 73B #22, Medellín, Antioquia

Vita Integral

In addition to finding a wide variety of healthy organic foods, you can also try organic beauty and wellness products. Vita Integral offers good quality products at low prices.

Among other types of food you can find in this store, the most interesting are:

• Lactose-free products
• Sugar-free products
• Keto diet products
• Paleo diet products

Vita Integral is an organic grocery store that functions as the middle ground in terms of price and convenience between Carulla and Saludpan.

Website:https://vitaintegral.co/

Address: Av. Nutibara Trv. 39B 77-40

Eat Fresh and Healthy Food in Medellin

Nourishing your body with the freshest ingredients of Medellin is very easy. It’s even better if you’re lucky enough to stay in one of the most community-based neighborhoods of the city, Laureles. 

So, what do you think? Are you ready to start or continue with your healthy eating? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Like the story? Take a second to support Medellin Living on Patreon!

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Did you enjoy this post? Support Medellin Living by making a small donation, and get access to special benefits like priority email responses to your questions and a free copy of the Medellin Travel Guide. Click here to learn more.

No need to spend hours scrolling through your phone to catch eco-conscious fashion stores. One of these shops can be just a few blocks from your hotel or Airbnb.

Are you ready to renew your wardrobe and shop until you drop at Medellin’s best sustainable clothing stores? Then there’s no time to waste.  Here’s a look at the top picks!

What Is Sustainable Clothing?

In short, sustainable clothing refers to fashion made with less use of natural fibers, water, and reduced resources. However, sustainable clothing also means that workers have decent working conditions and fair wages.

Also, the clothes are cruelty-free, as they don’t contain animal origins.

Its goal is to last over time and stop the impact the fashion industry is leaving on the planet and society.

Now,  jumping into the best places to find eco-friendly fashion in Medellin is next!

My Green Life Shop

This is a sustainable fashion store for the little ones of the family. The goal of this Colombian brand is simple.  The  goal is to make everyday living easier for all mothers while caring for the environment.

My Green Life uses 100% organic cotton from Peru to make its garments. The Green Life garments process in an ecologically and socially responsibly way. 

This stylish clothing store avoids using chemicals, modified seeds, or pesticides. Plus, they care  about the quality of their garments by using natural dyes, so the fabrics are anti-allergic.

On their website and in their store, you’ll find stylish clothes for babies and children of different ages:

• Babies from 0 to 18 months: Sets, pajamas, jumpers, shirts, dresses, pants, blazers, vests, and newborn sets.
• Children up to 6 years: Dresses, skirts, boy sets, and girl sets

Alongside the wide variety of racks of clothes carefully made with the best materials, the store also sells dolls, bathroom accessories, blankets, bibs, baby carriers, and stockings.

Being a small brand, you’ll find the clothes in the ‘Tribu Mujeres con Vision’ store in the Oviedo Mall. There, different brands of women entrepreneurs from Colombia meet.

Website:https://www.mglifeshop.com/

IG: @mglifeshop

Address: Cl. 6 Sur #15-43a, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Cuery Sustainable Leather Goods

Cuery began as a project created by a young man from Comuna 13 of Medellin. He decided to employ single mothers, women, and vulnerable young people.

The product’s designs inspire versatility, safety, and elegance.  The manufacturing process of all bags and accessories use eco-leather. Eco leather goes through a less polluting tanning process than most  manufacturers. 

This leather uses reconstituted leather, produced by the waste from the production chain of leather, footwear, and leather goods.

Their catalog of eco-leather products includes 

• Logbooks with eco-leather covers
• Jewelry
• Backpacks
• Purses

Overall, a local brand with sustainable initiatives that seek to support the people who need it most and take advantage of waste by creating products of very high quality. 

Something to highlight from Cuery is that you can get their products at low prices from the website or store. The store is in the San Javier neighborhood. 

Website:https://cuery.com.co/

IG: @cuery_ecomarroquineria

Address: Cra. 99 #44-20 Interior 202, San Javier, Medellín, Antioquia

Eco shopping by Islu

This small family business sees used clothing as an opportunity to take care of the environment. The founder and inspiration of the brand are Absalon Abad, a 70-year-old peasant who supported his family by recycling clothes.

Many people contribute to the cause and recieve money by donating or selling clothes that arent wanted anymore! It’s a win-win.

There are two options if interested. The  most popular action is to fill out a form on the website. The company will pick the clothes up from home.  There are also five collection points in the city to go to in person!

The clothes they sell on their website and store go through an arduous and careful process:

1. They collect the garments from the collection points.
2. Selection of garments that are in good condition and suitable for use.
3. Then clothes go through a cleaning process to remove 99% of impurities and bacteria.
4. Now they’re ready to be used by someone else

Eco-shopping leads to  social projects. Donating clothes allows the store to collect  money to pay university fees for young people who need them.

Website:https://ecoshopping.com.co/

Address: Cra 48A #118-22 , Medellín – Colombia

Pura

A sustainable clothing store located in El Poblado neighborhood. Their clothes are a little more pricey.  However, the products are high quality, and 60% of pure garments are eco-sourced materials.

This brand also supports a group of local women as they’re committed to social responsibility in Medellin.

Pura has a showroom in El Poblado where there is the seasonal collection. Many customers support their entrepreneurship by buying some clothes. Placing your order from the website is also available!

Website:https://puraclothes.com/

Address: Cl. 10b # 36-13, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Support Conscious Shopping in Medellin 

Nothing is more satisfying than helping the planet while supporting local craftsmanship, plus renewing wardrobes with local Colombian designers.

Sustainable clothes are the first step to making way for new things in your life.  Remember that the garbage of some can be a treasure to others!

So, what do you say? Are you ready to update your wardrobe with sustainable clothes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Like the story? Take a second to support Medellin Living on Patreon!

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Did you enjoy this post? Support Medellin Living by making a small donation, and get access to special benefits like priority email responses to your questions and a free copy of the Medellin Travel Guide. Click here to learn more.

Plus, the experience of drinking bubble tea in Colombia is different, as this has blended with the wide variety of fruits the country offers.

Are you craving some bubble tea? Then let me walk you through the best bubble tea spots in Medellin. Let’s jump in!

A Brief History of Bubble Tea 

Bubble tea emerged in Taiwan in 1990. Unfortunately, the name of the creator of the delicious drink isn’t known. 

This drink started as popular among teenagers and young people from all over Asia, then spread everywhere. Now you can find Bubble tea shops in every corner of the world. 

You’ll find different types of bubble tea that vary depending on the traditional ingredients of each country. Even in Taiwan, it was declared April 30th as the National Bubble Tea Day.

What’s In It?

There’s a wide variety of bubble tea! The drink has multiple  options, such as  different colors, flavors, and textures. The original consists of ‘boba’ or ‘pearls’ made of yuca or cassava, a very traditional ingredient of Colombia. Boba tea will typically be served with milk tea unless otherwise specified. 

The toppings to choose from are plentiful. There are red beans, syrups, jelly, brown sugar pearls, and milk options, even vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-free. Just pick your favorite and enjoy this highly-customizable drink.

Spots in Medellin for Bubble Tea

Thirsty yet? It’s time to know the best places to get your hands on this yummy beverage.

Momotea

Momotea is a Colombian brand that specializes in its creations of Japanese food and desserts. Momotea offers drinks and bubble tea of traditional Colombian flavors such as maracuya or passionfruit.

There’s always a crowd in Medellin due to its popularity with the culture and food.  Find the best boba shops here:

• Santafe Mall
• Arkadia Mall
• Viva Envigado Mall
• Viva Laureles Mall
• Euro La Frontera

Mendein businesses have vegan options on menus for all customers!  Commitment to helping the planet is significant in Colombia.  Companies use bamboo strays by default. It’s also possible to reuse plastic cups as pots to plant seeds. 

In addition to bubble teas,  other delicatessens  are perfect for grabbing a bite.  The Hong Kong Waffle is highly rated. The most popular dish is a  puffy little bubble covered in chocolate sauce,  ice cream, or both!

Not in the mood for bubble tea? Delight in something maybe more familiar! Try some Italian sodas.  These are the popular sold flavors:

• Maracuya or passionfruit
• Watermelon
• Lychee 

Momotea fan favorite is the Almond Smoothie: vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free. It’s a satisfying alternative for those bubble tea lovers that may have dietary restrictions.

IG: @mimomotea

Poblado Address: Calle 185 No. 45 – 03. Santafe Mall, El Poblado, Medellín Colombia

Teamo Teahouse

If you’re in Viva Envigado Mall, head over to Teamo Teahouse.

Most of the menu is inspired by the Japanese teahouse, with traditional flavors such as oolong tea, matcha tea, black tea, and green tea. Choose from plain tea, or turn your tea into bubble tea for an additional price. Add tapioca pearls to your drink for an extra kick of texture!

Staying in for the day? Buy a 1 L bottle of tea and flavor it, add the toppings and enjoy from the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb.

A comforting recommendation is the Suprema drink,  mixed  with orange, lemon, papaya, pitaya, and maracuya. Overall, there are cozy shops scattered throughout the city. It is easy to find a soothing atmosphere almost anywhere in town. 

IG:@teamoteahouseco

Address: Cra. 48 #32B Sur-139, Envigado, Antioquia

T4 Oviedo

T4 is one of the most prestigious chain stores in terms of bubble tea. T4  started in 2004 in Taiwan and eventually spread overseas.

In addition to traditional flavors such as matcha and milk tea, this chain offers other options not as well known, such as flower tea with rose, osmanthus, and Ophelia aloe.

Please don’t miss out on the Taiwanese specialty drinks! Ask about French pudding milk teas or grass jelly milk teas. You won’t be disappointed!

T4 Oviedo is a perfect place to get some work done, thanks to its strong wifi and board game area. It is known for embodying a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere. 

IG: @t4colombia

Address: Cra. 43a #6s-15, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Satisfy your Sweet Tooth With Bubble Tea

Enjoy a variety of flavors with the natural and typical ingredients of Colombia. There are plenty of spots to taste the best bubble tea in the city. 

So, what do you say? What bubble tea shop will you visit first? Let us know in the comments!

Like the story? Take a second to support Medellin Living on Patreon!

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Did you enjoy this post? Support Medellin Living by making a small donation, and get access to special benefits like priority email responses to your questions and a free copy of the Medellin Travel Guide. Click here to learn more.