Colombian Culture
Articles about Colombian Culture from Medellin Living — expat guides, news and first-hand experience in Medellín, Colombia.
Colombia Public Holidays 2027: All 18 Festivos
Short on time? Colombia has 18 official public holidays (festivos) in 2027. Thanks to the Ley Emiliani, most movable feasts are observed on the following Monday — creating the beloved long weekends Colombians call…
Medellín’s Transformation: How the City Became a Global Travel Destination
Short on time? Medellin underwent one of the most remarkable urban transformations in Colombia. Once known internationally for violence and instability, the city reinvented itself through innovative public…
Medellín’s Flower Culture: Inside the Traditions Behind the Famous Flower Festival
TLDR? Feria de las Flores, the world-renowned flower festival in Medellín, has long spoken to the city’s unique culture and vibrant blooms. Every August, locals and tourists gather together to celebrate colorful…
Colombia Flag: The History & Meaning Behind the Bandera
Short on time? The bold colors of yellow, blue, and red you see on Colombia’s flag represent a national symbol in South America. They tell a story of independence, sacrifice, natural wealth, and the country’s journey…
Atlético Nacional Medellín: Everything You Need to Know
Short on time? Atlético Nacional is Medellín’s most successful football club, with a rich history dating back to 1947. Known as “Los Verdolagas”, the club has won numerous Colombian league titles and is one of the few…
Medellín at Christmas: Deck the Halls of the City of Eternal Spring
Short on time? Christmas in Medellín is a full-season celebration filled with millions of lights, traditional food, family gatherings, music, La Novena, Nochebuena, and the iconic Alumbrados Navideños. Medellín is a…
Ghosts of Medellín: 8 Spooky Sites Around the City
TLDR? Beyond its mountain views and spring-like weather, Medellín is also home to old ghost stories, haunted landmarks, and urban legends connected to the city’s history. A typical day in Medellín might include visiting…
Medellín at Christmas: Why December Is the Best Time to Visit the City
December is one of the best months to visit Medellín thanks to its Christmas lights, festive local energy, warm weather, and unique Colombian holiday traditions. From La Alborada to the legendary Alumbrados Navideños,…
An Honest Review of Salon Malaga
Medellin’s nightlife is a jungle of musical genres that can be overwhelming for the old-fashioned, who might enjoy other genres such as tango and bolero. Salon Malaga is an old-timey bar perfect for tango and bolero…
The Ultimate Guide to Mercado del Rio
Mercado del Rio is the first food market in Colombia and one of the must-visit spots in Medellin. Whether you want to enjoy gourmet cuisine dishes at one of its 30 restaurants or get some deep work done at a cafe or…
Strolling the Stalls at Medellín’s Farmer’s Markets
Medellin is such a biodiverse country in the world. Please don’t leave without first giving a farmer’s markets tour around Medellin. So put your shoes on and get a taste of exotic fruits and vegetables that you’ll only…
The Lowdown on the Medellín Tattoo Expo
Tattoo culture has gained strength in Medellin in recent years. In fact, you’ll find many professional tattoo studios throughout the city. Whether you want to bring a tattooed souvenir from your trip to Medellin or to…
The Best Places to Go Horseback Riding in Medellín
Tired of touring Medellin on traditional means of transport? Then you should try enjoying the stunning landscapes and beautiful mountains on horse riding. Horseback riding tours in Medellin are a family-friendly…
Coffee Shopping Guide: What’s the Best Colombian Coffee Brand?
Many people think that the only places they’ll find high-quality artisan coffee in Colombia are Starbucks, Juan Valdez Café, and Oma (three national coffee chains). However, the coffee you can pick up at your local…
Everything You Need to Know About the 2022 Flower Festival
Colombia is one of the world’s top flower farming countries. In fact, there are more than 1400 species of flowers grown here, of which the most popular are roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums. To commemorate this…
All About the Pedro Nel Gómez House Museum
Although in Medellin you can find a lot of outdoor activities, booming nightlife, and friendly people, you’ll always find an enriching experience in one of the city’s many museums. One of those museums is the Pedro Nel…
Everything You Need to Know About Colombian Coffee Varieties
Did you know that some of the best coffee in the world comes from Colombia? In fact, it’s only surpassed by Brazil. Now, if you’re already a coffee fanatic, this might be old news to you. But, if you’re only just…
Make a Splash in One of Medellin’s Best Swimming Pools
Life in the tropics may mean sunny weather and great temperatures year-round, but it also means that you’ve got to find some way to cool down when things get too hot. While you can always switch on the AC, I personally…
The Beer Lover’s Guide to the Best Breweries in Medellín
I’ll admit it. I’m a beer snob. When I go somewhere new I love trying out different breweries, especially craft breweries. There’s something about them that really gives you a feel for the culture and flavors of a city.…
The Complete Guide to the Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal
Searching for ecotourism alternatives in Medellin isn’t hard. There are tons of great hikes in the area, not to mention places to try stuff like white water rafting and paragliding. Still, if your goal is to extend your…
Your Guide to Cocora Valley: Medellin’s Best Weekend Getaway
Are you thinking of a weekend getaway outside Medellin but still don’t know where to go? Then the Cocora Valley might be a good pick. Thanks to its coffee landscapes and walks through wax palms up to 70 meters high,…
Sip, Smell, Swirl: The Coffee Tasting Tour at the Marquee Hotel
Coffee is one of the first things you think about when it comes to Colombia. After all, the country is famous for having some of the best-tasting beans in the world. As that’s the case, it’d be practically criminal to…
The Ultimate Guide to the Museo de Antioquia
There’s no doubt that Medellin is a city full of culture, art, and good museums. Speaking of museums, if you love strolling through galleries and taking in some culture, then you have to check out the Museo de…
Off-Beat Tours: Medellin’s Exotic Fruits Tour
Medellín is home to tons of interesting exotic fruits. Moreover, you might not find these products in your home country or other destinations as easily as in Colombia, which is the second most bio-diverse country in the…
How Many Days Should You Stay in Medellin?
Medellin is becoming a popular tourist destination, despite its rocky history. Today, it’s a thriving hub where you’ll find booming business and plenty of fun activities. The trouble is, with so much to enjoy, it can be…
Suite Deals: The Best Hotels Under $100 in Medellin (Plus How to Find Them!)
As much as I like luxury living, sometimes, I’m traveling on a budget. And, when the budget is tight, it can be tough to find good hotels. Sure, you can always scour TripAdvisor to see what you come up with. But, let’s…
The Best Luxury Hotels in Medellín: The Ultimate Guide
There’s nothing like a luxury vacation. Luxury hotels give you a way to really kick back and relax without having to worry about any of the stuff you usually would back home. While many places around the globe have…
Medellin Weather: It’s Raining It’s Pouring…AGAIN?!
Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city, has grown more than any other city. Despite its complicated past, Medellín is now a modern, innovative, and beautiful city. Also called the City of Eternal Spring, Medellin is…
Covid Tests, Rules, and Regulations in Medellin: What You Need to Know
The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, and it’s hard to know for sure when we’ll win the battle against the coronavirus. In spite of this, countries have started relaxing the rules for traveling, and it’s now much…
Things to Do in Medellín on Tuesdays
Tuesday. The second day of the week, when you’ve only just recovered from partying, and the next weekend seems so far away. But fear not – the City of Eternal Spring is home to fiestas, culture, and awesome experiences…
Días Festivos: Public Holidays in Colombia 2020
Besides having a vibrant culture, incredible landscape, and friendly locals, Colombia also has the fourth-highest number of national holidays in the world. Boasting 18 extra days off work every year, Colombia is famous…
Where to Celebrate Christmas Eve in Medellín
If you’re in the City of Eternal Spring over the holidays and want to plan a calendar of exciting activities, cultural events, and delicious food, you’re in luck. December in Medellín is one of the best times of year to…
10 Cool Things to Do in El Centro, Medellín (2019 Update)
There are many things to do in the El Centro Medellin neighborhood. This includes museums, parks, outdoor gyms, markets and restaurants.
6 Christmas Charity Activities in Medellín
December in Medellín is filled with plenty of festive events, as well as the opportunity to indulge in Colombian culture and spend time with new friends. However, Christmas in the city is also one of the most difficult…
Paisa Traditions: Día de las Velitas
December 7th marks the unofficial start of Christmas celebrations in Colombia. Día de las Velitas – meaning ‘Day of Little Candles’ is a unique tradition and event that draws both locals and foreigners to the streets.…
Fun New Year’s Eve Traditions in Colombia
While for many people December 31st is spent dressed in something sparkly, shouting over loud music, and knocking back too many drinks, Colombians get far more creative when welcome in a new year. From eating multiple…
December in Medellín: How to Celebrate the Holidays Like a Paisa
December is arguably the best month on the calendar – it features both Christmas and New Year, meaning time off work, presents, seeing family, and a general joyful feeling. While North America and Europe tend to carry…
Your Guide to Tattoos in Medellín
Whether you’re on the metro, in a tienda or wandering the streets of Medellín, you’re likely to spot plenty of tattoos on the locals. The city is known for its street art and creative community, and Paisas love to…
Día del Amor y la Amistad in Colombia
Unlike North America and Europe, Valentine’s Day in Colombia doesn’t focus solely on one special person in your life. Known as ‘Día del Amor y la Amistad’ – the day of love and friendship – Colombia’s version celebrates…
The History of Medellín
Medellín’s past is filled with rich culture and significant transformations. Colombia’s second-biggest city is no stranger to turbulent times, however, Medellín’s ability to recover and progress is what gives it such an…
Medellín’s Transformation: The City’s Past & New Story
Once labeled the ‘most dangerous city in the world’, Medellín has undergone a significant transformation. Now a must-visit location on any South America itinerary, the city has taken several measures to change not only…
Coffee Culture in Medellín: The History, Cafes & Tours
Colombia produces around 11.5 million bags of coffee every year, making it the third largest exporter in the world (after Brazil and Vietnam) and a must-visit destination for caffeine addicts across the globe.…
Paisa Traditions: Father’s Day in Medellín
Father’s Day in Colombia (and around the world) is always observed on the third Sunday of June each year. In 2019, Sunday June 16th marks el Día del Padre (Father’s Day), and while Dads deserve recognition all the time,…
Lessons from Paisas: How to Dress in Medellín
All travelers have had the same moment standing over their suitcase, staring blanking at the clothes they’ve laid out and exhaling loudly at the prospect of being too cold, hot, uncomfortable, or unstylish. Especially…
The Advantages of Growing Old in Medellín
As Medellín becomes more popular with young travelers making their way through South America, what about the older generation of ex-pats who have lived in Colombia for many years? Or those considering moving to retire…
A comparison between Medellin and Bogota
Would you love to live in Colombia? If yes, which is a better Colombian city to live in between Medellin and Bogota? If you ask the locals, everyone is biased depending on where he or she comes from. If you ask the…
Paisa Traditions: Mother’s Day in Medellín
There is a strong focus on family values in Colombia, and most relatives gather together every Sunday to spend quality time together – no matter how old or how distant the relation. Naturally then, Mother’s Day (El Día…
The Top Gay-Friendly Places in Medellín
Medellín is one of the most progressive cities in Colombia – over the past decade seeing a rise in more accepting attitudes, particularly around LGBT voices and rights. While Colombia essentially remains a conservative…
Cultural Differences Between Paisas and Americans
While the U.S and Colombia may share the same land mass (albeit 2,622 miles apart), they can certainly feel like totally separate worlds. Differences in language, currency and weather are obvious between the two, but…
Where to Volunteer in Medellín
Giving a little back can go a long way. While Medellín is a city that boasts great weather, happy people and plenty of adventures, it’s not without its struggles. Homelessness, street violence, drug use and inadequate…
Lessons From an Expat: 10 Things to Know Before Traveling to Medellín
You’ve booked the flights, you’ve got your vaccinations and you’ve started telling people you’re off to Medellín – no doubt with a few frowns of concern from the older generation. You’re feeling organized and excited…
Spanish Words & Phrases for Travelers in Colombia
Colombian Spanish is known for being the clearest in the world, so it’s no wonder travelers flock here looking to brush up on their foreign language skills. While there are plenty of great Spanish schools across the…
Colombian Dating: 18 Great Places to Take a Date
18 places to take a date in Medellin, including restaurants, cafes, and places for drinks and dancing.
Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour: Amazing Street Art and Much More
The Comuna 13 graffiti tour is more than just street art. With its street food, accessible local artists, and offbeat shopping, it offers surprising insight into this vibrant, revitalized Medellin neighborhood.
Martin Thoran’s Swedish-Colombian Adoption Story
Ximena profiles David Mendoza’s epic journey of self-understanding and mystery, one that we can all relate to on one level or another.
Colombians of Saskatoon: Andrés and Marta
In another installment of Colombians of Saskatoon, we meet Andrés and Marta, a couple who moved to Saskatoon for a PhD scholarship.
Colombian Artists: Fernando Botero
Fernando Botero (1932-present) is a painter/sculptor that has been the go-to reference for Colombian art for decades, but what do we really know about him?
Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de los Dolores in Robledo
Completing our tour of the notable churches in Medellín, we look at Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de los Dolores, which is located in Robledo.
Tuesday Mass at the Parish Church of Santa Ana
The Church of Santa Ana celebrates mass in devotion to María Auxiliadora every Tuesday for which many make the pilgrimage from beyond Sabaneta.
Iglesia San José and Parque El Poblado
Continuing our tour of the notable churches in Medellín, we look at Iglesia San José, which is located next to Parque El Poblado.
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora and Parque Belén
Continuing our tour of the notable and historic churches in Medellín, we look at Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Belén, which is located next to Parque Belén.
Iglesia de Santa Gertrudis and Parque Envigado
Continuing our tour of the notable churches in Medellín, we look at Iglesia de Santa Gertrudis in Envigado, which is located next to Parque Envigado.
Iglesia de Santa Ana and Parque Sabaneta
Continuing our tour of the notable churches in Medellín, we look at Iglesia de Santa Ana in Sabaneta, which is located next to popular Parque Sabaneta.
Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Rosario, a Beautiful Church in Bello
Continuing our tour of the notable churches in Medellín, we look at Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Rosario, an impressive church with a beautiful interior.
Iglesia de San Ignacio, a Historic Church in El Centro
Continuing our tour of the notable and historic churches in Medellín, we next look at Iglesia de San Ignacio, which has Baroque and Colonial influences.
The Gothic-Style Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro
Continuing our tour of historic churches in Medellín, we look at Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro, a sizable Gothic church built on donated land.
Iglesia San Antonio and Parque San Antonio
When visiting the tourist spots in El Centro, it is also worth stopping at Iglesia San Antonio, which has a large dome and is next to Parque San Antonio.
Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús: A Gothic Church in Barrio Triste
When visiting the tourist spots in El Centro, it is also worth stopping at Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, a notable church located in Barrio Triste.
Iglesia de San José, Another Historic Church in Medellín
When visiting the tourist spots in El Centro, it is also worth stopping at Iglesia de San José to see another of the notable churches in Medellín.
Paisa Perspective: Laura Echavarria – Fashion Blogger
Laura Echavarria is the talented fashion blogger behind Fashionlessons.co, a bilingual English/Spanish blog where she shares her fashion and travel advice.
Iglesia de La Candelaria, the Oldest Church in Medellín
When visiting the tourist spots in El Centro, it is also worth stopping at Iglesia de La Candelaria to see what is considered the oldest church in Medellín.
Catedral Basílica Metropolitana: Medellín’s Most Important Church
Catedral Basílica Metropolitana is arguably the most important church in Medellín and is perhaps the largest church in the city.
Paisa Perspective: Eduardo González – Musician
Ximena interviews Eduardo González of Puerto Candelaria to talk about the band, what they like to do, and the growing music scene in Colombia.
Finca de Don Aristides: Visiting the Juan Valdez of the Silleteros
Dave and friends visit the Finca of Don Aristides, known as the Juan Valdez of the silleteros to learn more about his life and business in Santa Elena.
Iglesia de la Veracruz, One of the Oldest Churches in Medellín
When visiting El Centro in Medellín, it is also worth stopping at Iglesia de la Veracruz to see what is one of the oldest churches in the city.
Paisa Perspective: Claudia Márquez Cadavid – The First Lady
Get to know Claudia Márquez Cadavid, The First Lady of Medellín, through the latest installment of our Paisa Perspective interview series.
Colombian Humor: A Particular View of Everyday Life
A peek at what Colombians find funny and how Colombian humor differs from others.
Paisa Perspective: Johanna Logreira – Designer
Johanna Logreira is an industrial designer from Medellín and an avid ambassador of creativity in every shape it may come.
Paisa Perspective: Frank Martínez – Comic
Frank Martínez, a stand-up comedian from Medellín, shares his perspective on the city, including some of his favorite places to eat and hang out.
Paisa Perspective: Fernando Jaramillo – Writer
Fernando Jaramillo, paisa winner of national writing contest, tells Medellin Living what he loves about the city.
Men’s Fashion in Medellín
Melissa’s handpicked outfits for men’s fashion in Medellín, including a variety of tips that will be helpful while packing.
What Lies Behind the Use of the Word “Gringo”
The origin of the term “gringo” and a look at whether its use by Colombians toward foreigners is a sign of curiosity or disrespect.
Celebrating Christmas with a Paisa Family
I doubt there’s another country that takes December as seriously as Colombia does. This is my experience, a Christmas party with a paisa family.
Men in Shorts, Medellín’s New Fashion Trend
Thanks to hotter weather, an influx of tourism, and a publicity push by big clothing brands, more paisas are wearing shorts, a rarity just three years ago.
Women’s Fashion in Medellín
Melissa’s handpicked LookBook for women’s fashion in Medellín, including a variety of day and night outfits.
Paisa Perspective: Mónica Zuluaga – Singer
Mónica Zuluaga is a lawyer and singer-songwriter from Medellín. She’s a self-described romantic, and her songs touch on emotions like love and sadness.
Paisa Perspective: Carmen Angel – Chef
Carmen Angel, chef and co-owner of Carmen and Humo restaurants, shares her favorite things to do and see in Medellín.
LGBT Medellín: The Most Colorful Side of the City
Colombia has over 20 national organizations working for LGBT rights, and Medellín is rapidly becoming the most tolerant city in the country.
The Two Escobars: Andrés Escobar’s Vision of Colombia Thrives, 20 Years Later
Ryan tells us about “The Two Escobars,” a documentary about fútbol star Andres Escobar and his hopes for his country during a time of great struggle.
Expat Observations: Passive Aggressiveness, Xenophobia and Making Plans
In John’s final story on his observations of Medellín, he tells us about passive aggressiveness, xenophobia and making plans.
Expat Observations: Tips, Time and Gossip
John gives us his third post in his series on expat observations, which covers tips, time and gossip, among others.
Expat Observations: Lines, Speaking Spanish and Dar Papaya
In his second story, John Knox Seagle tells us about the challenges that come with standing in line, as well as speaking Spanish and other local customs.
Paisa Customs, Culture Shock
In the first of four guest posts, John Knox Seagle tells foreigners new to Medellín about paisa customs that can lead to culture shock.
A Female Perspective on Colombia
I’ve been traveling in South America for the last sixteen months – four in Colombia – and it’s impossible not to notice the extra attention men give women.
Silleteros: The Men and Women Behind Medellin’s Flower Parade
Santa Elena, more than anything else, is known as the birthplace of the men, women, and tradition behind the Desfile de las Flores (Flower Parade), the highlight of Medellin’s annual Feria de las Flores (Flower…
Huila and the Colombian Wedding
PITALITO, Huila — The encounter almost never happened. Had my roommate not moved back to the United States just before my trip to Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay, I never would have gone to Urban Buddha, the…
Seeing Bogota in a Creative Light
The following is a guest post by The Hairy Chef. Colombia…the only risk is… Not understanding Spanish? Drowning in endless floods of mango juice? Having too much fun? Getting sunburnt? Doing too much cool shit? Getting…
Visiting a Coffee Farm in Colombia
Writer’s note: This is part two of a two-part story. Click here for part one. MANIZALES — The van headed south once again, this time about a half an hour to a coffee farm, and I wondered if I missed anything the night…
Paisa Culture: 6 Observations on Life in Antioquia
The same questions come up, over and over again. The women are beautiful and it’s easy to pick one up if you’re an American, right? Isn’t it dangerous there? Aren’t there a lot of drugs? I’ve heard they like to party…
Visiting a Finca in Copacabana, pt. 2
This is part 2 of a 2-part series. You can read the first part here. In the morning, I awoke to birds chirping, people stirring about on the ground floor of the finca, and the gorgeous mountain and valley views I can’t…
Visiting a Finca in Copacabana, pt. 1
This is part 1 of a 2-part series. My friend Rodrigo invited me to his family’s finca in Copacabana soon after I had arrived back in Medellin this past February. I was focused on the relaunch of Travel Blog Success the…
Medellin Women: Rules of the Game
How to meet Medellin women, and a few important rules of the game for dating in Colombia.
The Chiva Party Bus From Hell
I’d been anticipating my first chiva ride for weeks, if not the several months since Ana had mentioned they’re popular in Medellin during December. As the holidays drew nearer, I saw more and more cruising past my…
Photo Essay: Envigado in December
“Wow” was my first reaction upon seeing Envigado in December. I’d never seen anything like the lights strung above the streets. Since all Colombian cities, towns, and pueblos feature a main square, it’s possible to have…
Myths and Legends Parade
The fireworks and early evening parties of November 30th unofficially kicked off a month of Christmas celebrations. One week later, the Myths and Legends parade (Desfile de Mitos y Leyendas) took place on the eve of the…
Daily Life in Envigado
Envigado is the city immediately south of Medellin (and still along the metro line). One Saturday afternoon in September, Troy from FOGGOdyssey lead a photo safari to capture photos of Envigado. It was the same…
We Love Carlos Gardel
One of the nice things about having traveled through most South American countries, and getting to spend big chunks of time in each one is that you start noticing and recognizing similarities between them. In the 18…
Movie Time and a Little Politics
A few days ago, we went to the theater at Centro Colombo Americano to watch Waltz with Bashir, an animated war documentary. With the spoken language in Hebrew, and the subtitles in Spanish, I understood little of what…
The Story Of Juan Valdez
The Juan Valdez cafe adjacent the Fernando Botero museum in Bogota was the first place I enjoyed a cup of authentic Colombian coffee. When I arrived in Medellin, the cafe in Parque Lleras became my favorite place to…
A Few Insights Into The Colombian Culture
This is truly my first time traveling outside of the United States, so I’m noticing quite a few things about Colombian culture that are different to me. These things are definitely not bad, and mostly entertaining. The…
Moving Into a New Life In Colombia
My last few days have been filled with my quest to settle down in Medellin. Right now, I’m not even sure why I am so determined to be here. I can’t communicate with most people, and I really do miss my friends and…
Video: Sunday Afternoon Graffiti
It seems Robin over at The Arepa is a multimedia juggernaut! Not only is he starting up the city’s only English-language nightlife guide, he’s good with a camera and editing videos! I’ve taken some shots of graffiti…
Great Insights Into Colombian Culture
Just as in many Latin countries, the Paisas are frequently late. They may tell you 7:00PM but do not expect to see them until 7:30 to 7:45. No matter how much you complain, you will not change their culture so just get…
Let the Salsa Lessons Begin
My original plan to become a superstar salsa dancer by not spending any money and simply hanging out at the clubs on the weekend was failing miserably. I decided to take my desire to learn the dance more seriously, and…
Address Where Pablo Escobar Was Killed
Editor’s note: See a 2019 update of this article here. Independently finding the location of Pablo Escobar’s grave online was easy. Trying to find the location of the safe house above where Pablo Escobar was shot and…
Local Artwork
I could only walk by the painting pictured above so many times before I needed to take a photo and share with the world! It’s stands about two blocks from my apartment in Envigado. I am not sure what it means, though…
Pablo Escobar’s Grave
Paying a visit to Pablo Escobar’s grave in Itagüí, a town south of Medellin, Colombia.