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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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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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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Whether you want to bring a tattooed souvenir from your trip to Medellin or to get that tattoo you wanted a long time ago, the Medellin Tattoo Expo is the perfect opportunity to get some new ink. 

Does this sound like something you might like? Then keep on reading to know how to prepare for and what to expect at Medellin Tattoo Expo 2022!

An Overview of Medellin Tattoo Expo 2022

The Medellín Tattoo Expo is an annual cultural exhibition created in 2010. Over the course of three days, famous tattooists of national and international stature gather to demonstrate their skills in tattoo competitions. 

At the event, attendees can enjoy other events such as:

• Live painting
• Graffiti contest and gallery
• Breakdance battle
• Live music performances
• Miss & Mister tattoo event
• Art fusion (two artists on the same canvas)

The goal of the event is to bring together ink and art lovers to show the world their talent and promote local art.

This is also a place where you can get a spontaneous tattoo or buy some merchandise from your favorite tattoo studio.

Getting Your Tickets and How to Get There

The event takes place every year in the yellow pavilion of Plaza Mayor, one of the city’s largest and most important convention centers.

One of the benefits of Plaza Mayor is its generous amount of parking lots in case you’re planning to drive there. 

However, the quickest way to get there is by taking the metro. All you have to do is get to the Alpujarra or Exposiciones stations; both are a few minutes from the convention center. You can also take other means of transport such as Metroplus, and bike.

Once you arrive, you can buy your tickets at the entrance of the pavilion or purchase them on the Plaza Mayor website.

Usually, the tickets for events that take place in Plaza Mayor are very budget-friendly. But, keep in mind that once you enter the pavilion, you won’t be able to leave unless you want to pay for two tickets.

Website:https://plazamayor.com.co/eventos/expotatuajemedellin-2022/

Instagram: @expotatuajemedellin

Address: Cra. 57 # 41-81, La Candelaria, Medellín, Antioquia

Tattoo Artists at the Expo

The Medellin Tattoo Expo brings Latin American, American, and Canadian artists together. In other words, you can find different techniques and styles from the best and most recognized tattoo artists.

Some of the styles you’ll find at the event, which is also categories of the tattoo contest, are:

• Lettering
• Oriental
• Freehand
• Color realism
• Old school
• New school
• Dotwork
• Art fusion
• Minimalist
• Shadow realism
• Neotraditional

When you enter the convention, you’ll have hundreds of booths to choose from. Then, it’s up to you to find your favorite style and design to get tattooed, or just stroll through the convention halls and enjoy the artistic and chill vibe.

Keep in mind that if you want a more detailed tattoo, you should schedule an appointment with the artist beforehand. However, if what you want is some last-minute ink, you can try getting a tattoo with an international artist who doesn’t have many clients or appointments. 

I also recommend you regularly keep an eye on the Medellin Tattoo Expo social networks since that’s where they publish artists who need volunteers to be a canvas. While you won’t get to pick the tattoo, it’s a great way to get some free ink!

Art Galleries, Live Painting, and Music Performances

The Medellin Tattoo Expo is also a place to enjoy other events such as painting exhibitions, dance shows, and other activities. 

For instance, at this year’s expo, there was a collaborative piece of graffiti, where 6 professional artists created a blend of urban and traditional styles. Apparently, the process takes the entire 3 days of the expo!

The goal of the graffiti piece is to show each day’s progress and to teach the public a little about the proper techniques to use paint sprays.

Another interesting part of the expo is the wide variety of DJs and artists that will lift your spirits with their many different music genres.

The Medellin Tattoo Expo also offers workshops for those who wish to learn more about the different categories of tattoos. If you want to know which workshops will be held for the expo, you should keep an eye on the event’s social media.

You can’t miss the old school and realism workshop. Just remember that the seats are limited, so make sure you get to the workshop place in advance. Some of the topics to be addressed in the workshop are:

1. Theory
2. Materials 
3. Live tattoo
4. Personal questions

Tips for Enjoying Medellin Tattoo Expo

If you’re spending all day (or all three days) at the convention, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Take everything you need to spend the day without leaving the pavilion (to avoid having to pay for re-entry). 
• There are places to buy something to eat or drink, but you can also bring some snacks with you.
• If you want to get tattooed at the event, you should schedule an appointment with the artist in advance. 
• If you want a small tattoo, make sure you have the image handy. 
• If you want to be a canvas for an artist, you must schedule an appointment in advance. Usually, they’ll give you very good discounts since you won’t choose the design. 

Get Some New Ink at the Medellin Tattoo Expo 2022

Whether you want to get a new tattoo or just spend the day admiring national and international artists’ interesting works of art, Medellin Tattoo Expo 2022 is an event that you should check out.

Are you thinking of getting a new tattoo? What’s your favorite style? Let us know in the comments!

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Horseback riding tours in Medellin are a family-friendly experience not to be missed. You’ll feel like a cowboy riding into the wilderness.

Does this sound like something you might like? Then keep on reading to discover the best places to go horseback riding in the city!

Types of Horseback Riding Tours in Medellin

Depending on your budget or the desired kind of experience, you’ll be able to enjoy different types of horseback riding tours.

Let’s get into the three main options when it comes to horseback riding tours so that you can pick the right one for you.

Small Group Tours

This is the most budget-friendly option where you can enjoy the stunning landscapes in the company of a small group of people. Usually, these small groups are made up of 10 to 12 riders.

Personally, I think it’s the best way to enjoy the ride while practicing Spanish and meeting new people. You might even make a friend or two to grab a drink with afterward!

This is also a good pick if you don’t know too much about horseback riding. These groups teach you the basics of horseback riding before you hit the trail, so you’ll be all set to go on a great ride.

In these small groups, you can surround yourself with people looking for a cross-country race or groups that prefer slow but safe rides—it all depends on the type of ride you ask for. 

Private Tours

If you want a slightly more exclusive and personalized experience, then a private tour is the right choice for you. It’s a great option for couples, families, and even groups of friends.

Usually, private tour agencies offer half-day and full-day excursions. They ask you about your skills, the type of tour you want, and the location.

These tours are super personalized, so feel free to have fun creating a tour you love!

Combination Tours

Combination tours involve combining other activities or extreme sports with a horseback riding tour. 

For example, you’ll ride the horses down to an epic waterfall where you can jump in and go canyoning! In essence, you’ll use the horse as a means of transport to spend all day doing adrenaline-filled activities.

These are great tours for thrill-seekers who want a little extra adventure on their tour.

How to Prepare

For some, riding doesn’t need any kind of preparation. However, this is an activity that many tourists aren’t used to, and often the next day, they feel muscle aches or find some bruising on their legs and arms.

Your tour agency will give you a list of instructions you should keep in mind for the tour. But, if you want to get a headstart, you can check out this list of things to bring:

• A wide-brimmed hat or sunhat
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Jeans
• Rubber boots or hiking shoes
• Water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Bug-spray
• ID card or valid passport
• First aid kit (Unless your guide has one)
• Snacks
• Cash 
• Small backpack

Most tours include transportation and pictures. So, you don’t need to bring valuables like cell phones, cameras, or keys. Just double-check with your guide beforehand to make sure he’ll pictures and videos of the adventure.

Best Horseback Riding Tours in Medellin

Now that you know how to prepare for your horseback riding tour, it’s time to choose among the best places in Medellin to carry out your adventure.

Cabalgatas Medellin

By far, the best place to go horseback riding in Medellin is Cabalgatas Medellín. Here, you get much more than just a tour through the most amazing landscapes of the city.

The agency has over 20 years of experience in training horses and leading guided rides. Plus, they have a wide variety of ecological trails that fit your requirements depending on your budget and skills. 

One of the things that make Cabalgatas Medellin stand out is the fine horse rental, whether you already have experience in horse riding or just want to take a picture with a beautiful steed, a fine horse will always give a special status to your experience.

Another amenitiy that they offer to enhance the experience is a burroteca. This is basically a donkey carrying a boombox (Yes, really!) to brighten the mood on the tour

Despite being one of the most popular agencies in Medellin, the prices are super affordable. These are the three plans that they offer:

1. Basic: 2-hour guided horseback ride.
2. Parrandero: A longer tour with lunch included.
3. Mega-plan: A full-day tour with alcohol included.

Website: https://www.cabalgatasmedellin.com/

Address: Cra. 43A #9 64, Medellín, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Cabalgatas Oriente

This is a great place to celebrate events or have two-hour or four-hours horseback ridings. You can also include lunch, alcohol, and transportation in your plan. 

Celebrating your birthday on a horseback riding tour is a different and original way to celebrate another year of life. And, once you’re done, you can have a birthday party at the fonda while having lunch. 

I highly recommend having the barbecue at the end of the tour (when everyone needs a break anyway) while enjoying the beautiful Antioquian landscapes.

Website: https://www.cabalgatasoriente.com/

Spend a Day Going Horseback Riding in Medellin

Doing a horseback riding tour is a different way to appreciate the city’s landscapes and get in touch with nature while enjoying the view with your family or meeting new people.

Now that you know everything you need to spend a day between horses and farms, put on your boots and get ready for the adventure!

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However, the coffee you can pick up at your local supermarket is actually just as high-quality. Better yet, it’s affordable, and you can brew it at home!

So, would you like to know everything about homemade Colombian coffee? We’ve got you covered! Keep reading for everything you need to know about homebrewing basics in Colombia. 

Homemade Brewing Methods in Colombia

Despite the fact that the country produces arguably the world’s best coffee, many Colombians prefer to buy instant coffee bags that only need hot water to be ready and then get to work as fast as possible.

Other locals prefer to buy ground coffee, add boiling water, and then wait 10 to 15 minutes for the coffee residue to rush to the bottom of the container. This is what most Americans would refer to as Turkish coffee back home. 

You’ll also find that many Colombians like the French press. This is a teapot-like device with a press at the top that you use to press down when you’re ready to brew your coffee. The result is coffee in less time and without lumps, sort of the happy medium between instant coffee and Turkish coffee.

Regardless of which method you choose, the available coffee is all pretty high quality, making it worth purchasing!

Best Supermarkets in Medellin to Buy Coffee

In Colombia, you can find ground or instant coffee in most convenience stores near your hotel or Airbnb, as well as in larger stores.

You’ll also notice that as you tour Medellin, you’ll find many artisan coffee shops that sell their own brand of coffee grown on different farms in villages surrounding Medellin.

One of the best places to buy a range of types of coffee (everything from craft coffee to your staple Starbucks beans) is Carulla. There, you’ll find all kinds of coffee in any price range. 

A few other shops where you can find a good selection of coffee for homebrewing are:

• Colsubsidio: an average supermarket which offers its own coffee brand at very low prices.
• Éxito: the Colombian version of Walmart, you can even find the French press there.
• Olímpica: a large supermarket with entire aisles of coffee brands. 
• Jumbo: another supermarket where you can find coffee bags of all types and sizes.

Any of these are good picks for picking up coffee to make in your apartment, hotel room, or Airbnb.

How to Choose the Best Coffee

Despite being one of the largest exporters of coffee, in Colombia, you can find coffee ranging from very low quality to very high quality. This is why it’s important to know how to choose the best coffee, so that it’s worth the effort of preparing it at home.

The quality of a brand or type of coffee is measured by the rank it receives in the global market, also called the cupping score. This scale goes from 1 to 100, with 1 being the worst and 100 being the best. 

In other words, the higher the cupping score is, the more expensive and exclusive coffee brands will be.

To assign a rank, professional tasters evaluate the smell, taste, fragrance, body, and acidity of the grain. Then a selling price is assigned according to the coffee score.

While in Colombia, you can find coffee ranking between 40 and 90. In the United States, you can find coffee ranking between 50 and 90.

The Best Coffee Brands in Colombia

Now that you know a little more about the quality of a coffee bean and where you can buy it, let’s take a look at the best coffee brands in Colombia.

Here are a few top brands to be aware of. 

Café Juan Valdez

Juan Valdez is of the most representative brands of Colombia. You can even find some coffee Juan Valdez shops in the US!

Juan Valdez coffee is 100% Colombian and has very mild flavors that fall somewhere between acidic and sweet. They have a number of different varieties: 

• Origin: Regional coffee from different parts of Colombia
• Special: Coffee grown on the Juan Valdez farm.
• Premium: Coffee with a high rank that’s some of the most exclusive coffee in the store.
• Instant coffee: Instant soluble coffee.

Most people seem to find that the taste of this coffee compares very well to Starbucks coffee. An,d although in Colombia you can find Starbucks in the big cities, the Juan Valdez coffee is a nice alternative if you want something more local. 

Café Quindio

This is coffee grown in the national coffee park located in Montenegro, a village in the department of Quindio. It has sweet and fruity notes, with a strong flavor and body and generally a medium roast. 

In addition to having their own line of organic, premium, and flavored coffee, they offer a wide variety of desserts made from their artisanal coffee.

Pro tip: try the arequipe or dulce de leche with coffee. The blackberry and coffee jam are also good choices and go great on some toast alongside your morning brew! 

Café Sello Rojo

Moving away from high-quality premium coffee, Sello Rojo coffee is a brand you’ll find in most Colombian kitchens. This is one of the brands that offer good quality coffee at very low prices, and would be the equivalent of Folger’s in the US. 

However, due to its strong flavor and aroma, and dark color, this definitely isn’t for the faint of heart. Still, it can be a good brew for waking yourself up in the morning!

Sip a Cup of Homemade Colombian Coffee

Trying a coffee tasting experience in Colombia is half the fun of visiting this tropical country. However, there’s something to be said about just getting your hands on some good brews to try on your own!

So, what do you think? Will you pick up Juan Valdez or Café Quindio? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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To commemorate this important part of Colombian culture, the city of Medellin hosts a flower festival every year. The festival celebrates the history of flower farming in the country and the importance of this crop.

If you’re visiting Medellín this summer, you can’t miss the 2022 Flower festival. Read on to learn all about this popular festival that takes place every year in Medellin!

What is the Flower Festival?

The first flower festival, or Feria de Flores, was held in 1957, and as you can imagine, it was not as spectacular as the current annual fairs. 

The event aimed to celebrate the trade of the silleteros, peasants who carried a silleta (big wooden boards adorned with flowers) on their backs. Although these silletas are mostly for show today, they were once an important part of gathering and harvesting flowers. 

Anyone who dares to carry one of these silletas -which can weigh up to 140 lbs- is called a silletero. At the time of the first flower festival, only 40 silleteros participated. However, the fair was so successful that today it’s grown into a huge national event and is one of the oldest traditions of the city.

You’ll find things like concerts, parades, and local vendors selling wares at the fair. The flower festival was not held for three years (thanks to Covid-19), so this year will be a big party.

The 2022 Flower Festival Schedule

Luckily, we already have the confirmed time and place of each festival event. Don’t forget to consult the website of the festival beforehand, as there may be some unplanned changes.

Below are some of the most important events, however, there are many other side events that you can attend as well. 

What to Expect at the Festival

At the festival, besides the famous flower parade, you’ll find diverse concerts and tons of other activities that are great for the whole family.

Whether you want to taste all the Antioquian food in the traditional food festivals or spend the day enjoying the beautiful flower arrangements carried by the silleteros, we’re sure you’ll find something you love. 

Let’s take a closer look at a couple of the key events at the flower festival. 

Concerts

Music and dance are two major aspects of Colombian culture, and the annual flower festival is the perfect place to experience both of these activities.

You’ll find several concerts every day, all celebrating different musical genres, so you can really get a feel for a couple of different Colombian musical styles. 

Don Omar and Juan Luis Guerra will perform in the last days of the festival, but you can also see artists, such as:

• Marc Anthony
• Silvestre Dangond
• DJ Pope
• Jessi Uribe
• Pipe Pelaez
• ChocQuibTown

If you’re not already familiar with these artists’ music, head over to YouTube to check out what they’re all about!

Vasquez Building Flower Decorations

Every year the city decorates the Vazquez building, covering it from head to toe with colorful flowers. You can head inside and pose with the beautiful arrangements or snap some selfies for your Instagram.

The building’s decorations went up on August 5 and will be around until the festival ends, or even after. Since the festival sometimes lasts past the official end date, you’ll likely be able to snap some photos even a couple of days after the festival is over.

Parade of Silleteros

Although the party and the concerts are very entertaining, you can’t forget the main reason for the festival: the parade of silleteros.

On the last day of the festival (August 15) is the huge silletero parade. This is really the main attraction of the flower festival so you can’t miss it. 

Artists usually prepare months in advance to have their silletas ready to be shown to the public. The arrangements are specially designed to represent Colombian culture.

Some Tips for the 2022 Flower Festival

Before you buy your tickets, there are a couple of things to keep in mind about the Feria de las Flores. Here are some tips for attending festival events: 

• Take care of your personal belongings. Leave your valuables behind and pack light to avoid pickpockets or losing anything important.
• It’s important to hydrate, so make sure to bring a bottle of water. You can purchase these while you’re out as well, but expect prices to be hiked up for the festival.
• Wear lots of sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and long-sleeved T-shirts to prevent sunburn.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to spend a day at the festival!

Get Ready for the Medellin Flower Festival

Now that you know about the festival’s schedules, events, and history, you’re ready to attend the 2022 Medellin Flower Festival. 

This is an unforgettable experience that will teach you a lot about Medellin and Colombian culture.

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One of those museums is the Pedro Nel Gomez House Museum. This is a place dedicated to keeping alive the life and work of this renowned Colombian artist. 

Does this sound like something you might like to check out? Then keep reading to learn more about the Pedro Nel Gomez House Museum!

Getting to the House Museum

The quickest way to get to the house museum is by taking a taxi or uber that will drop you directly at the museum. You can also take the metro line A and get off at the Universidades station.

Then take one of these two buses from the station:

• 022
• 023

However, if you don’t mind a short stroll (about 15 minutes), you can walk from the metro and give yourself a chance to explore the Aranjuez neighborhood. 

You’ll pass by some of the other popular tourist spots in Medellin, such as the botanical garden Joaquin Antonio Uribe, Parque Explora, Parque de Los Deseos, and the Parque Norte.

Once you arrive at the museum, you’ll need about an hour to go through the exhibits. Afterward, you can enjoy one of the libraries or seating areas around the outside of the building. Or, head back the way you came from to check out one of the aforementioned tourist spots.

Inside the House Museum

To get into the museum, you’ll be asked to make a voluntary contribution, which is intended for the maintenance of the place and other activities such as workshops or recreational activities. It’s pay-what-you-will, so you can pick how much you’re willing to donate. 

This house museum was built in 1975 by the artist himself on one of the Aranjuez neighborhood’s surrounding hills. When he built the house, Gomez wanted to fulfill the wishes of his wife, Giuliana Scalaberni, and create a space that could be dedicated to the city of Medellín.

This engineer, sculptor, and Colombian artist did just that by leaving a legacy of hundreds of frescoes, oil paintings, watercolors, pastels, drawings, engravings, and sculptures. His art aimed to paint a picture of Colombian life, showing the country’s political, economic, and cultural landscape.

While at the museum, you find a large collection of personal belongings of the artist as well as his art. This gives you a unique look into who the artist was and what his life might have been like back in the day.

The museum features four permanent exhibits:

• Collection of fresco murals
• Studio-workshop
• Tribute exhibition to Giuliana Scalaberni
• Meeting room 

It also features temporary exhibits that change all the time. We recommend visiting the museum’s website to find out about future exhibitions, schedules, and prices.

Other Cultural Spaces

In addition to the art exhibitions, you can find a great diversity of musical and artistic groups in Medellin that use these spaces to rehearse their performances. 

The house museum also has a small library where you can find information that relates to Gomez and his art processes. Plus, there’s a small auditorium where films, documentaries, or other cultural events are shown from time to time.

Behind the building, you’ll find a small garden full of native vegetation of the region and a play area for children. You can take in the incredible views of the Antioquian mountains and the city. 

Activities and WorkShops

In addition to being home to an important part of Colombia’s cultural history, you can use these city spaces to learn something new and why not, take some of Gomez’s artistic inspiration.

Ceramics Workshop

Aimed at anyone seven years or older, this workshop teaches you the basic techniques for making ceramics. You can enroll in the ceramics initiation course or skip to the advanced group if you feel adventurous or already have some experience in the field.

This workshop is perfect for having a friendly time with new people and practicing Spanish. Just keep in mind that you must bring your own utensils to learn to sculpt, mold, and paint. 

Tango Lessons

If you enjoy dancing, you might want to check out the tango lessons at the house museum. This is a free activity and a cool way to explore a bit more of Medellín’s dancing scene.

Sewing Workshops

You can also g to know Colombia’s cultural roots through design, patronage, and haute couture at a sewing workshop! This activity is also free to the public. However, you should bring your own tools necessary to sew and design.

Yoga Lessons

The museum sometimes puts on yoga lessons, which are ideal for anyone who wants to do some mindfulness meditation. The classes are free, and you don’t need to have any prior experience.

Just bring your mat and a small towel and join in the class!

Spend a Day in Pedro Nel Gomez House Museum

The Pedro Nel Gomez House Museum is a place where you can learn more about Colombian art. Whether you want to kill some time on a rainy day or learn a new skill, this artistic corner is a Medellin must-visit that you can’t miss!

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Now, if you’re already a coffee fanatic, this might be old news to you. But, if you’re only just getting into the world of Colombian coffee, there’s a lot to find out.

So, if this is something that you may find interesting, keep reading to learn everything about Colombian coffee varieties!

The History of Colombian Coffee

Before we start talking about types of Colombian coffee, let’s take a second to go over its history. 

To the surprise of many, including me, coffee doesn’t grow naturally in Colombia. It’s said that it was brought from Africa by the French in the 18th century, but some historians doubt this version of the events.

Regardless of how it arrived in Colombia, coffee has thrived in the country’s specific weather conditions. Only some places in Colombia are suitable for obtaining high-quality coffee beans, because these plants need cooler temperatures. That’s why high-altitude regions such as Antioquia are great places for growing coffee!

Remember that in Colombia, there are no weather seasons. Whereas US winters would kill the plant almost immediately, Colombia’s mild year-round temperatures make for the perfect environment for these plants.

Coffee Varieties and Regions Where They Grow

You’ll usually find two types of coffee mostly grown around the world: Arabica and Robusta. In Colombia, the national federation of coffee growers prefers to sow Arabica, which produces a softer drink and has greater acceptance in the world market.

If you didn’t know, Arabica coffee has other varieties (each with its own characteristics) such as:

• Porte alto: Tipica, Borbon, Maragogype, and Tabi
• Porte bajo: Caturra and Colombia

However, you’ll be able to find a minority of farmers that grow Robusta coffee in some regions of Colombia.

Speaking of regions, each region has different characteristics of humidity, temperature, and other growing conditions that affect the flavor and intensity of the coffee they harvest. Because of this, I always recommend you try artisan coffee from each different place you visit in the country!

Now that you know a little more about coffee varieties let’s look at the specific parts of the country where it grows.

Northern Regions

The northern regions of the country are La Guajira, Magdalena, Cesar, Santander, and North of Santander. The taste of these beans is generally much stronger due to the low altitudes and high temperatures as well as the shade of the forests.

Central Regions

Boyaca, Choco, Quindio, Cundinamarca, North of Tolima, South of Antioquia, Caldas, and Risaralda are the central regions. Perfect for lovers of balance, the taste of these coffees is neither very strong nor very soft. 

The plants grow in medium-high mountains with very fertile lands due to the volcanoes that surround those regions.

Southern Regions

The southern regions include Nariño, Cauca, Valle del Cauca, and Huila. Here you’ll find a milder flavor coffee from plants that grow in high mountains. The coffee beans in this region ripen more slowly, giving the taste a slightly more bitter flavor.

Eastern Regions

Casanare, Meta, Caqueta, and Arauca are the eastern coffee regions. The coffee from these areas has a softer and fruitier taste and a very low acidity, perfect for sugar lovers.

Due to the proximity to Mexico’s gulfs, these regions tend to have more rainy seasons, which affects the flavor of the crop.

Why You Should Have a Cup of Coffee While in Medellin

The Central and North regions of Colombia, where Medellin is located, have long been recognized as the largest producers of Colombia’s best high-quality coffee. These regions have lower rainy seasons and cooler temperatures. So, the variety of coffee you’ll find here is mainly softer and citrus flavored. 

Plus, in Medellin, you’ll find many coffee shops with professional baristas that can craft an excellent cup of coffee. Heck, they can even teach you to sip, smell and swirl like a professional coffee taster! It’s a great way to try the most popular varieties of Colombian coffee.

Alternatively, you can head out to one of the small villages near Medellin, where you’ll find a great diversity of artisan coffees grown directly on fincas or farms specialized in coffee growing. If you like learning about processes, this is a good activity to try.

The Difference Between Colombian and American Coffee

Ironically, if you’re from the US, the coffee you drink in the mornings is most likely grown in South America. However, the quality is moderate. The taste has high levels of intensity and acidity. 

For this reason, the difference in the coffee is very noticeable when arriving in Colombia and trying the traditional coffee of the country’s coffee regions. Here, coffee has much more developed tasting notes and less bitterness.

Treat Yourself to a Cup of Colombian Coffee

Coffee is one of the most important national heritages in Colombia. That’s why you can’t leave Medellin without trying a coffee tasting tour. 

Now that you know all about its history and varieties, you can brag about being a real high-quality Colombian coffee taster. Have fun!

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While you can always switch on the AC, I personally think there’s nothing better than taking a dip in a pool.

So, whether you want to enjoy some me-time by the poolside or you’re looking to get some exercise, there are plenty of places to enjoy the dry season in Medellin.

Prepare your duck float; in this article, I’ll show you where to go for a swim around Medellín!

Aeroparque Juan Pablo II

The largest water park in the city, Aeroparque Juan Pablo is top of the list when it comes to the best swimming pools in Medellín. 

The park has water slides, swimming pools, splash zones, children’s pool, and a semi-Olympic pool for those who want to train hard and burn calories.

If you’re going to stay in Medellin for a while, you can also enroll in the hydro aerobics classes that are held from Tuesday to Friday in the mornings. It’s a great way to try new things and make friends in the process.

Other activities you can try at the park include:

• Swimming lessons on the weekends
• Turkish baths every Sunday

The ticket price to the park is very reasonable, regardless of whether you’re going for a workout or you just want to have fun. 

Just remember to pack the following items so you can stay safe and have fun in the sun: 

• Water bottles
• Waterproof sunscreen
• Snacks
• A wide-brimmed hat
• A change of dry clothes
• Swimming cap
• Lycra swimsuit

Rooftop Pool at the Marquee

One of the best places to cool off while admiring Medellin’s sunset with a Muay Thai in hand is the rooftop at the Marquee Hotel. 

In fact, I’d say this is the perfect place to go on a date or chill out with your group of friends!

The one thing you should know is that you do have to be a guest of the hotel to access the pool. Still, that just makes it that much easier to enjoy your time. 

No need to worry about designated drivers; grab some cocktails and lounge in the pool before strolling downstairs to your room!

Piscina La Ladera

This pool is free to access as it belongs to the Medellin mayor’s office. So, if you’re on a bit of a budget, this is the place to go. 

Whereas some of the other pools I’ll talk about are great places to relax and wind down, this pool is dedicated to sports. Here, you can either swim laps or join one of the many aquatic classes that go on.

To get into the pool, you only need a valid ID (your passport works fine) and a suitable swimsuit. 

While the pool does get a bit crowded, it’s still a nice place to splash around and cool off for a bit. Just remember—the place is closed on Mondays for cleaning and maintenance!

Piscina Los Alcazares

This pool is located in a sports center, so you can also access its classes and other machinery and services.

A few of the classes they offer here include: 

• Water activities for babies
• Swimming lessons
• Aquatic activities for the elderly
• Therapeutic swimming
• Swimming for pregnant women
• Disabled swimming
• Aquagym 
• Aquaerobics

I’ve done the aquaerobics classes, and trust me, they’re hard!

To enter the Alcazares pool, you need a valid ID. You’ll get the first hour free and then pay a small per-hour fee to keep using the pool.

Insider tip: The best times to go swimming are weekdays in the morning, as there are not many people, so it’s a great time to go swim laps!

Landmark Hotel

This pool on the terrace of a pet-friendly hotel has incredible views of Medellin! Plus,the staff at this place is fantastic, so it really makes for a great swim. 

The Landmark Hotel is located in one of the most popular neighborhoods of Medellin, Poblado. You’ll get stunning views of the area from the roof of the swimming pool!

The hotel also has a hot tub, and since nights can get chilly in Medellín, that’s the perfect place to hang out. 

The hotel doesn’t have a private parking lot, but the staff is very friendly and can order a taxi for you.

Atanasio Girardot Sports Complex

This is the largest sports center in Medellin. Admission is free, and you can make a reservation and swim some laps here without a problem. 

The reservation system is great because it helps limit how many people are using the pool at once. That prevents things from getting overly crowded. 

If you want to try something new, there are other types of sports and classes you can participate in at the center:

• All swimming styles 
• Diving
• Synchronized swimming
• Water polo
• Underwater rugby
• Underwater hockey
• Scuba diving
• Freediving
• Swim with monofin and bifin

If your plan is to get some exercise and stay fit, this is the perfect place to spend the day.

Hotel Estelar

This pool is located in another Poblado hotel and is open everyday during daylight hours. 

The pool here is slightly larger, and it’s best to use it during the morning when there are fewer people. You can even swing by the spa afterward to work out the kinks from your swimming exercise!

Take a Dip in the Best Pools of Medellin

There are tons of great places to go for a swim around Medellin.

Whether you’re looking for a family experience or a relaxing day with your date, in Medellin, you’ll find a lot of options to choose from. Slap on some sunscreen and enjoy a refreshing day at the pool!

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