Author: Juan Arenas

Traveling to Latin America: 15 Things You Need To Know

Cayo Cangrejo, Providencia

If you’re considering a trip to Latin America in 2024, but struggling to plan your vacation, we understand. This guide will help you decide where to go in Latin America, how to plan your vacation and what to bring and do once you’re here. Read on for our Guide to an Unforgettable Latin America vacation!

Latin America is high on many people’s travel wishlists, and for good reason. The region is popular for its stunning mountain ranges, exotic rainforests, sun-soaked beaches, biodiversity and cultural diversity. It’s also very affordable, whether you’re looking for luxury or a more rustic vacation.

Let us help you in the organization, planning, and during your trip to Latin America. Fill out the form and one of our experts will contact you!

Deciding where to go on vacation in Latin America

Latin America is huge with nearly 20 countries to choose from! We may be biased, but the numbers don’t lie – in the last year, both Mexico and Colombia were two of the most popular countries to visit in Latin America. No matter where you go in Mexico and Colombia, you’ll find a fascinating mix of modern and traditional cultures, awe-inspiring nature and biodiversity, bustling nightlife, world-class cuisine, and the ruins of ancient civilizations.

Planning a trip to Colombia or Mexico

Both Colombia and Mexico are easily accessible by plane from both the US and Europe. You’ll often find good deals if you’re flying from Miami, New York, Milan or Amsterdam. Given their location within the tropics, you’ll find the weather is affected more by the altitude of your chosen destination than the time of year you decide to visit. But be aware that hurricane season hits Mexico in October, so it’s best to avoid that month for your vacation.

Preparing for your Latin America vacation

Barranquilla, Colombia

Colombia and Mexico are both exciting, seductive countries, but some first-time visitors might feel overwhelmed by the demands of the culture and climate. It’s quite different to the USA or Europe. Whether you decide to head to Colombia, Mexico, or another Latin American country, here are a few tips to make the most of your trip to this enchanting region. Follow this guide to learn about the do’s and don’ts of planning, packing, and traveling in Latin America!

Planning

1. Be Informed

Before planning your vacation in Latin America, it’s a good idea to research not only where to visit, but what to expect in each place. Videos, blogs and social media cover a lot of ground, so you know what to pack, what to leave at home, and what risks you might find in each place.

Learn about the safety of the places you’d like to visit. Mexico and Colombia have areas frequently travelled by tourists and areas best avoided. Take a little time to understand which areas (especially of cities) are safe to be in day by night. Understanding the risk of petty theft, food poisoning, or mosquito-borne illnesses will help you make informed decisions throughout your travels.

2. Don’t Over-Travel

Every country in Latin America is unique. From Mexico to Argentina, you’ll find vast differences in culture, art, cuisine, climate, and nature. While it can be tempting to visit as many countries as you can, you may find that you’ll enjoy your adventure more if you cover a little less distance.

Travelling slowly through one country or visiting 2 or 3 regions for a few days each will help you adapt to a different pace of life and more deeply experience what a country has to offer. If you only have a long weekend or a week for a vacation, slim it down to just the highlights or maybe just one city or region. If you love it, you can always come back!

3. Get Vaccinated

Well before your visit, check in with your doctor to make sure your vaccinations line up with current travel health requirements. Also check what proof you might need in order to reduce problems arriving in your chosen destination.

4. Learn Some Spanish or Portuguese

While many people in Latin America speak some English, it can be helpful to know some common Spanish or Portuguese phrases, especially if you will be traveling through smaller villages. Even knowing a few key phrases such as “thank you” or “please” can help your journey go a little more smoothly!

If you don’t have time or need some extra help, hire a concierge service like Two Travel (our whole team is bilingual!) or invest in a translator or bilingual driver who’s a local. They’ll open up your eyes to a more enjoyable experience and reduce the hassle you may experience in some areas.

5. Understand the Local Currency

Almost every independent country has its own currency, which all have different exchange rates. It’s a good idea to be familiar with the currencies and rates before you travel. Even more useful is knowing the going rates for taxis, drinks, meals etc. Knowing what locals and expats typically pay means you’ll be less likely to get caught out with “a gringo price”.

Know what payment methods are accepted wherever you’re going. In both Mexico and Colombia, you’ll find ATMs in towns and cities, and cards are accepted in bars, restaurants and supermarkets. Always choose to pay by card in local currency (your bank will work out the conversion fee and 99 times out of 100, your bank will give you the best rate).

Don’t forget to bring some cash though. Always take money out in the daytime from a secure ATM location – supermarkets are some of the best places to do this. There are plenty of places where it’s advantageous to pay in cash, and if you’re walking on the street, always have a few small notes within easy reach, just in case.

6. Be Mindful of the Weather

If you’re travelling anywhere between the tropics, know that it’s hot whenever you’re close to sea level. It’s the altitude that makes the difference to temperature in this area, and the seasons are more simply “dry” or “rainy”. Avoid Mexico in October as it’s hurricane season. In Colombia, there are no hurricanes, but the rainy season can sometimes disrupt plans, especially if travelling by road.

If you’re travelling to the far south of Latin America for your vacation from anywhere in the northern hemisphere, be prepared for a climate shift! The seasons are opposite to those in the north with peak temperatures in December and January and colder weather in July and August.

Always check what to expect before you pack. And if you want to get more tips and Latin America recommendations let us know so we can build your experience.

Packing

7. What to Wear

Between exploring the beautiful adventure sport destinations, enjoying sunny beaches, and sampling tantalizing South American cuisine, you may quickly find your suitcase overflowing with outfits! Think about where you’re going and what type of vacation you’re taking.

If you’re heading for a city break and booking Michelin star restaurants, bring your cab shoes and dress up (just check the weather first!). If you’re searching out the road less travelled, the more casual, practical and low key the better. You don’t want to look like a rich fish out of water. If it’s hot, make sure to pack natural fibres – Colombia, Mexico and anywhere in the tropics can be quite humid. If you’re heading up to altitude, make sure to have a hat and shades – the sun can be brutal closer to the Equator.

And if you forget anything, don’t worry. If you’re on the tourist trail, there will be a shop selling you what you need. And if you’re in a big city, some of the boutiques are incredible – keep a little space in your suitcase and make sure to have a day for some shopping.

7. Leave Valuables Behind

Many regions of Latin America are very safe and the majority of Latin Americans are warm and will welcome you to their town or city. However, inflation and the pandemic have hit some people hard. Keep in mind that a minimum wage in many places is just $250-300 USD a month, and although prices are lower than the US, it’s not easy to survive on the minimum.

For this reason, some destinations may have a higher risk of theft, and your iPhone can feed a family for months. It’s a good idea to understand where you’ll be each day or night, and dress appropriately – not just for the weather, but so you’re not a target for petty theft. Only carry the cash and card you need, consider a cross-the-body bag if you’re out in the streets, leave expensive jewelry behind, and don’t go waving that iPhone around in areas where it’s not safe to do so.

While on your Vacation in Latin America

8. Whether or Not to Drink the Water

Let’s be honest, no one wants to be sick on vacation, so we recommend you play it safe with water. Many locals will tell you that the tap water is just fine, and for them it may be. But you never know how you might react to a change in water, and if you have a sensitive stomach, take the safe route and use a water filter or buy your water from a supermarket. When it comes to juices and ice, in hotels and restaurants, you should be fine. Be aware of how you feel the first few days, and take it from there.

9. Taxis and Transport

Taxi scams are fairly common in South America, so take precautions to avoid them. Only take licensed cabs, download the local taxi app, or book transportation with your hotel or concierge. Be aware that in some cities, Uber is a grey area, so it may not be as convenient an app as you’re used to. It can also be a good idea to ask the hotel or concierge for a sense of travel time and cost, which will help you gauge whether or not your taxi driver is being honest with you. Outside of the main cities, make sure to connect with a trusted driver, preferably who speaks English, so you can learn more about where you’re travelling.

10. Staying Connected

Many South American countries and communities don’t have reliable infrastructure. Power cuts can be commonplace, especially during bad weather. Most restaurants, bars, villas and hotels will have wifi, but it’s worthwhile getting a local SIM card if you want to be constantly connected. Short-term data plans are very cheap. If you’ve chosen a concierge, local driver or local guide, make sure to download WhatsApp. It’s the most common communications app across Latin America. On the flipside, if you’re heading out on a retreat or wellness vacation, make sure to turn off your phone and enjoy being disconnected for a few days!

11. To Tip or Not To Tip

More likely than not, you’ll receive help from travel guides, translators, boat captains and drivers during your travels. Tipping is a customary part of South American culture and many of the locals support themselves this way. Be sure to offer something to your guides as a thank-you for their help.

In bars, it’s not customary to tip – it’s at your discretion. In hotels and restaurants, the tip will often be included in the bill. 10% is normal and it will almost always go to the waiters, or be divided equally among staff.

12. Getting the Best Photo

There are countless Instagram opportunities while on vacation in Latin America. Like anywhere, going out early will give you the best light and quieter streets or tourist locations. Don’t put yourselves at risk in getting that perfect shot – no climbing to the edges of waterfalls and cliffs, nor filming in risky neighbourhoods. Take advice from locals and you’ll have amazing photos.

13. Street Shopping

Bartering on purchase prices is an expected part of South American culture. Don’t be afraid to give it a try! But always be respectful as you negotiate a price – remember that the salesman will be much more affected by a reduced amount than you will be.

14. Try Local Cuisine

South America offers a wide array of delicious cuisine. Don’t be afraid to try out the street food, where you can experience authentic local favorites. Follow the crowd, and your nose, to find the best places. Food poisoning is common in parts of South America, so be alert to make sure all your dishes look and smell right before enjoying.

15. Tours and Trips

You’ll find plenty of tours and trips to book on Google, as well as walking the streets in any tourist town. Always compare prices if you can, or talk to a local or your concierge, who will be happy to find you the experience that you’re looking for.

If you’re planning a trip to Colombia or Mexico, our Concierge team can help you get the best from your trip, arranging accommodation, tours, reservations and unique experiences. Our local teams know all the hottest spots – whatever kind of Latin America vacation you’re looking for.

Get in touch and we look forward to seeing you on your next vacation!

Juan Arenas Colombia, Mexico

Blue Apple Beach Day

Blue Apple Beach Club, Cartagena

Welcome to Blue Apple – one of the best beach clubs in Cartagena!

In their own words, “Blue Apple is an independently owned boutique hotel and beach restaurant with a strong focus on fun and also on sustainable tourism.”

Here, you can relax during the week and party and dance on the weekend. Blue Apple always has live music and DJs from Friday to Sunday, whereas the weekdays are more relaxed if you’re looking for a quieter time, maybe a horse ride or simply a delicious organic lunch and some cocktails by the pool.

Included in your day pass:

  • Round trip transfers in shared boat (departure from Cartagena 10am or 12pm, return from Blue Apple Beach 4pm or 5:30pm) – Make sure to choose the right schedule for you!
  • Sun longer, towel and use of club facilities
  • Mid-morning snack
  • 2 course lunch (menu restrictions aply)
  • Alcoholic cocktail
  • 15 minutes massage
  • Unlimited drinking water
Book your Beach day
Juan Arenas Cartagena, Colombia, Experiences Tags , , ,

2024 Guide to the Best Bars in Cartagena

El Baron, Cartagena
El Barón, Cartagena

Cartagena is a party city. Tourists and locals love the Cartagena nightlife, but with so much choice, it’s easy to miss the best cocktails. Read on for our 2024 Guide to the Best Bars in Cartagena. From the ever popular Townhouse brunch to Alquimico and El Barón, these are the Cartagena party places not to miss.

The buzzing, vibrant city of Cartagena comes alive at night. When the heat of the day cools down, a new city emerges. And part of what makes Cartagena’s nightlife so unforgettable is its many bars. Most of the best bars are located within the picturesque walled city in Cartagena. From Instagram-worthy rooftops lined with palm trees to three-storey mansions serving uniquely crafted cocktails, Cartagena’s bars are built to impress – and they don’t disappoint. If you’re wondering where to find the best bars in Cartagena, look no further. It’s been our pleasure to try out every one of the following bars to give you the best recommendations.

Do you want to make the most of your stay in Cartagena? Contact us to rent a private luxury boat with a chef, drinks, food and DJ.

Alquimico for craft cocktails

The award-winning Alquimico is a must for any trip to Cartagena. The mixologists are true artists making craft cocktails in minutes. The menu is a treat for the senses and we love how they use local flavors and ingredients, grown on their organic farm in the Colombian countryside. They frequently change their menu, always keeping it fresh!

Alquimico, Cartagena

We guarantee you’ll never have another cocktail like this one. Colombian rum infused with borojó (a locally-grown fruit also known as an aphrodisiac), anyone? If you’re into dancing, there are two ambiences to choose from. The DJ on the first and second floors plays popular Colombian tunes and throwback classics. Meanwhile, up on the rooftop, you’ll be treated to more tropical vibes. No matter what day of the week it is, Alquimico is bound to be buzzing. Get there early to avoid the inevitable queues!

If you’re in Cartagena for NYE, get tickets for Alquimico’s party here.

Townhouse for Brunch

Townhouse rooftop bar, Cartagena

If day drinking is more your vibe, we couldn’t recommend more highly the Boozy Brunch at Townhouse.

On Saturdays and Sundays, for $30 USD per person, you can have bottomless food and drink from 11am until 3pm. Yes, you heard us right. Unlimited mimosas, Bloody Marys, beers and juices, accompanied by delicious bite-sized brunch plates to help absorb the booze. Sounds like the perfect hangover cure to us!

It also helps that the Townhouse rooftop is a super cool place to hang out, with a birds-eye view over the walled city, a cute plunge pool to cool down in, and Instagram-worthy neon signs to pose next to once the fourth mimosa has kicked in.

And if the brunch is so good it turns into sunset drinks, Townhouse also offers an evening menu. The music is always spot on. It’s the perfect place to chill with friends or pre-game at the start of your night.

Cafe Del Mar, Cartagena
Cafe del Mar, Cartagena

Café del Mar Cartagena for sunset by the sea

A trip to Cartagena wouldn’t be complete without visiting the renowned Café del Mar. Perched on top of the historic city wall and boasting some of the best sunset views, Café del Mar is a great option for groups and couples alike. This Ibiza-style upscale lounge has frequent DJ live sessions playing ambient house and Balearic beats with incredible views over the walled city. We recommend getting there early, around 5pm, to grab a good seat for the sunset, which will usually be at around 6pm. Or you can hire our concierge services, and we will make a reservation for you. Alongside delicious cocktails, liquors and local & imported beers, you can enjoy fresh seafood snacks as you watch the sun sink into the Caribbean Sea.

El Barón for artisan cocktails

El Barón, once a tiny hole-in-the-wall, has recently expanded due to its popularity amongst locals and tourists alike. This award-winning Cartagena bar boasts some of the best artisan cocktails in town. It wins the prize for some of the most visually pleasing food and drinks. Enjoy people-watching from one of its outdoor tables in San Pedro Square with a Gin Basil Smash in hand. Or head indoors after dark to peruse their extensive wine menu. We absolutely love the intimacy of this bar, which seems to have it all: great coffee and food for the daytime, and unique, avant-garde cocktails at night. They even have a Cuban cigar menu, where you can match your puro to your rum, Scotch, or Cognac, and enjoy Cartagena to its fullest.

If you’re in Cartagena for NYE, get tickets for El Barón’s party here.

Mirador Gastro Bar for dancing with the locals

If you’re looking for somewhere to get your boogie on, look no further than El Mirador. It’s a trendy rooftop bar with privileged views overlooking the famous Clock Tower and towards bohemian Getsemani. This bar has a great mix of Colombian locals and foreigners, which means one thing: dancing is inevitable. El Mirador is an awesome place to visit on a Saturday night and share a bottle of whiskey or rum with a group of friends. Its central location means that it is easily reachable on foot from your villa in the walled city, so you and your group can walk home without needing to split a taxi.

Don’t have your villa booked yet? Contact us, and we can hook you up with the best and most exclusive properties in town.

Movich Hotel Rooftop for the best rooftop view

The Movich Hotel has made a name for itself as another one of the best sunset spots in Cartagena. The bar of this swanky hotel is located on the rooftop. It’s open to the public as well as hotel guests. Get there early for the best table and enjoy the view over the picturesque rooftops of the walled city. This bar creates a perfect chill ambience with its soft house playlists. Kick back on the comfy lounge furniture and enjoy the soft breeze bouncing off the terracotta tiles of Cartagena. If your sunset drinks leave you feeling peckish, you can enjoy Caribbean-style bites. The menu is paired perfectly with their exquisite cocktail menu.

La Movida for the best party in Cartagena

La Movida Club and Bar is where the beautiful and elite of Cartagena hang out. Often dubbed as the “best party in town”, La Movida is a fusion of old-school American Speakeasy and Latino lounge. Make sure you come dressed to impress, as the bouncers on the door may turn you away if you rock up in flip-flops and shorts. Open Wednesday to Sunday until 3am, La Movida really starts kicking off after midnight. Don’t forget to ask your Two Travel concierge to book you a VIP table, as this small joint really fills up on the weekends. La Movida Cartagena is a unique experience, so grab a Gin & Tonic, and come and party with us in its colorful courtyard.

La Jugada Club House for the cool crowd

La Jugada is one of the tallest clubs in Cartagena’s old town, with four floors in total; three inside, and a beautiful tropical rooftop terrace. If you’re seeing a trend here, you’re not wrong in thinking that rooftop bars are big in Cartagena. There’s never a dull moment in La Jugada Club House, as they like to occasionally set off fountain fireworks from the Pink Flamingo bar on the roof. Why? Because it’s Saturday night in Cartagena, what better reason do you need? Its 1920-style art deco decoration is enchanting, and the interior filled with mirrors and wrought iron is a nod to the decadence of past decades. If you were planning a night in La Movida, you should know that they are also the same owners of La Jugada. Their impeccable taste and penchant for attracting the young and beautiful crowds will soon become clear.

If you’re in Cartagena for NYE, get tickets for La Jugada’s party here.

51 Sky Bar for those that like heights!

The only contender from our list outside the walled city, 51 Sky Bar is a must-see on your trip to Cartagena. This bar is on the 51st floor of the Hotel Estelar Cartagena de Indias in the modern and exclusive neighborhood of Bocagrande, Cartagena’s own answer to Miami. It boasts 360° views over the modern skyscrapers, which light up impressively at night, and further on, towards the seemingly endless Caribbean Sea. Enjoy live music and light bites such as sushi and Peruvian ceviche, but stay for the cocktails, which are perfectly crafted and well-balanced. We love to get things spicy with their tequila-based cocktail, Atrevido, shaken with jalapeños and black pepper.

51 Sky Bar operates with a strict reservations policy, so make sure you book before you go. Or let our concierge do it for you, and don’t show up late to your reservation! This super modern bar will give you a new perspective on Cartagena, and is sure to take you up to dizzying heights.

Casa Cruxada, Cartagena

Casa Cruxada for any time of day or night!

If you need to escape from the salsa music and reggaeton that you will inevitably hear in the Colombian coast, head down to Casa Cruxada. Here, you can hear live DJs play minimal techno beats and deep house. This club / bar / restaurant is in an enormous, crumbling Colonial building that feels like it is coming apart at the seams, in the best way possible. Its dark ambience and far-from-flawless decor only accentuate the perfection of its menu and playlists. But Casa Cruxada in the daytime is also a sight to behold. The light illuminates what in the nighttime becomes dark nooks and crannies, revealing the stunning architecture. The Spanish owners have crafted an incredible menu that is a gastronomical treat from breakfast to dinner. This multi-faceted bar is the perfect place for dinner and drinks, and after-midnight cocktail schmoozing, and everything in between.

Find out more about the beautiful city of Cartagena, choose a villa in centro, or contact us craft a special itinerary for you and your group. We promise you’ll get the best out of the city.

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How to Buy Property in Colombia

Villa Arzobezpalda

More and more foreign investors are looking to buy property in Colombia. Tourism in major cities like Cartagena and Medellín is driving up demand (and prices) for vacation rental properties. So buying property in Colombia is now considered an increasingly lucrative passive investment opportunity.

But how do you buy a property in Colombia? Two Travel are not just on hand for your vacation. We also offer property purchase and management services for foreigners who want to buy a property (turnkey, remodel, plot), gain a passive income and have a place to stay in their favorite Colombian city.

Our concierge team works hand in hand with lawyers, notaries, tax and visa experts, and have partnered with property concierges, Double Double to expand our real estate offering and expertise.

Do you want to know more and get personalized advice? Fill out the form and we will contact you to guide you through the whole process.

Here’s our Guide on How to Buy Property in Colombia.

Which Colombian cities represent the best property investment opportunity?

Colombia is becoming a more and more popular tourist destination, with direct flights from the US and Europe meaning over 4.5 million people visited Colombia just before the pandemic, and as the pandemic eases, we’re seeing those tourist numbers bounce back up again.

Most tourists spend time using Cartagena and Medellín as a base to explore the Caribbean coast and the famous coffee zone. We recommend both of these cities to people looking to buy a property as a vacation rental in Colombia. And it’s easy to offer that property at a good price for rent through platforms like AirBnB.

Is the cost of property rising in Colombia?

Yes, property values in both Cartagena and Medellin are consistently on the rise. Both Cartagena and Medellin present vibrant economies and real estate continues to show strong and consistent growth, with prices rising in both cities as they become increasingly popular tourist destinations.

Expect to pay at least $600 million pesos ($160,000 USD) for properties in the tourist zones of Bocagrande in Cartagena or El Poblado in Medellín. However, the demand for vacation rentals is high, especially during the high seasons, where you can expect to charge higher rates for accommodation in sought after locations like these. You can expect upwards of 10% return on investment if you manage and market your property well.

How do I find a property to buy in Colombia?

If you’ve visited Colombia, you no doubt fell in love with the warmth of the people and the weather. Many investors buy property having visited as tourists initially. We recommend that you visit the areas you’re interested in, and then talk to a property concierge like us to help you find a property that meets your needs.

Online property listings sites are not great in Colombia, and you’ll often find out-of-date information on these websites. Partnering with a property concierge is highly recommended, so you find properties as they come onto the market, especially in competitive locations like Cartagena and Medellín.

Once we’ve helped you find the investment property of your dreams, we can guide you through the process and be on hand to negotiate the best deal for you, even if you’re not physically in Colombia at the time of the sale.

Do you want to have access to the best property recommendations by city? Leave us your information below and we will help you in a personalized and secure way during the whole process. Your investment in Colombia is getting closer!

Do I need to speak Spanish to buy property in Colombia?

Speaking Spanish is very advantageous when doing business in Colombia, but we always recommend working with a bilingual guide and lawyer when buying property. Contracts and legal processes can be difficult to understand if you’re not fluent and a specialist in Colombian property law. The lawyers that we work with are trusted experts when it comes to foreign investment in property.

Do I need a visa to buy property in Colombia?

No, you do not. But you may be eligible for a Colombian investment visa through the purchase of a property.

What else do I need to know to buy property in Colombia?

The purchase process often moves very quickly. You could find a property and close the sale in as little as one week! Location is extremely important, and you should always ensure the legal checks on the land titles and construction rights are completed correctly. We can also advise you on requirements needed for renovation and remodelling.

The purchasing process in Colombia is completely different from many other countries. There is no title insurance and there is no Escrow. Our attorneys know the real estate laws and will do all the title and background checks to make sure the paperwork is in proper order before any contracts are signed.

You’ll need to pay some taxes and fees when purchasing property in Colombia. The fees usually amount to 1.65% of the property value. We will always inform you of all the fees involved.

There’s more information about our property purchase and property management services here, or contact us for an initial consultation. We’re on hand to help you buy and manage your property in Colombia.

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Juan Arenas Cartagena, Colombia, Concierge Tags

Medellin City Tour

Our Medellín City Tour gives you the chance to explore Medellín in a way that’s tailored to your interests. Spend the day exploring the sites and let us know in advance what interests you most – history, art, food and drink, nature, music, or a combination! Medellín is a thriving city with a fascinating history. Visit the famous Plaza Botero to see the incredible sculptures of famous artist, Fernando Botero. Take a cable car up to Parque Arvi, or a trip to the Botanical Gardens, if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Medellín. Or taste some of the local foods at the huge market at Plaza Minorista, and get away from the well trodden tourist areas. This city tour can be extended into the evening to visit some excellent bars, where you can enjoy a few cocktails too. Just get in touch and let us know what kind of tour you’d like, and we’ll help you explore the city of Medellín.

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Comuna 13 Tour

Comuna 13 is one of the most colorful districts in Medellín. It’s a must-see place for anyone visiting the city. We will take you on the famous escalators up to the barrio of Comuna 13. Here, you’ll learn about the history and regeneration of this area. You’ll be able to take in the vibrant art and atmosphere of the streets. Comuna 13 is not to be missed and is a shining example of the positive changes seen across the city of Medellín. Be ready to see some fantastic street art, inspired by this area’s history and often created by local residents. From the hill, you’ll have great views across the city. And there will be time to visit interesting shops, cafés and take a slide for the more adventurous on the way down!

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Guatape Tour

Guatape near Medellin

Gautape is one of the most beautiful (and colorful) towns in Antioquia. It’s home to the famous Piedra de Peñol – a huge stone mountain, that offers incredible views over the lakes in the area. We’ll pick you up in a luxury van, and you’ll spend the day taking in the amazing scenery. Take a boat onto the lake, climb the 740 steps to the top of the mountain (it’s a great work out), or enjoy the scenery from a helicopter – you decide! After a delicious lunch, you’ll have time to walk the gorgeous streets of the town, lined with colorful houses depicting life in this part of Colombia. We’ll drive you back to Medellín in time for a night out – just tell us where you want to go and we’ll organize the reservations and transfer.

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Coffee Farm Tour

colombian coffee

Colombia’s coffee is prized across the globe and the Coffee Triangle outside Medellín is the best place in the country to see how coffee is grown and processed. This day trip takes you to one of the best coffee farms in the region. Walk through the organic coffee plantations and learn how coffee is grown, harvested, dried and ground. As well as the coffee plantation, the farm has bee hives and raises animals. Take the coffee tasting experience, before exploring a little further on a horse ride through the property. This day trip is one not to be missed!

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5 Places to Stay in Medellin

Medellin villa

Check out five neighborhoods in Medellin

Whether you’re taking a short trip or an extended visit, you’ll need a place to stay in Medellín. These five Medellín neighborhoods provide some enjoyable options for your stay! Each of these districts have thriving Airbnb communities. Two Travel works with a number of homes and villas across Medellin, so do get in touch to see what’s available. Airbnb’s are an extremely safe option for your stay, and they’ll also give you an opportunity to meet your host and experience the culture a little more fully!

El Poblado

El Poblado is well known as the most trendy and tourist-friendly district in Medellin. Here you’ll find safe streets, an active nightlife, world-class dining, and premium shopping. If you choose to stay in El Poblado, you can pick from a large selection of luxury hotels and conveniently eat at some of the finest restaurants in the city!

Laureles

A quiet and residential neighborhood, Laureles is an excellent option for first time visitors to Medellin or for those traveling with children. Here you’ll find safe, quiet streets, proximity to parks and public transportation, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Belén

Belén is considered one of the trendier neighborhoods of Medellin. Traditionally home to the working class, this district boasts strong local vibes, relatively quiet streets, a slightly edgy atmosphere, and affordable accommodations. While Belén used to be considered somewhat unsafe, it has seen an increase in popularity and safety, and is now one of the most desirable locations for visitors.

El Centro

While you won’t want to wander around El Centro alone by night, staying in the downtown district puts you in close proximity to some of the best attractions and restaurants Medellin has to offer. It’s safe to walk around during the daytime, but we recommend taking a taxi if you’re there after dark.

Envigado

Envigado is the best place to stay if you want to experience some authentic Colombian culture. Located just outside of Medellin, this quiet town has managed to preserve a small neighborhood feel and local character. While you won’t find luxury accommodations or fine dining in Envigado, the city itself is so full of traditional charm that it more than compensates for any lack of glamour and glitz! It’s also one of the safest communities in the Medellin area.

If you’re planning a trip to Medellín and need some help finding accommodation or tours, get in touch. Our local concierge team can get you great prices and unique experiences.

Juan Arenas Leave a comment on 5 Places to Stay in Medellin Colombia, Medellín