Exito is the American equivalent of Walmart or Target in Colombia, and it is based out of Medellin.
The stores remind me of home, and a Colombian friend explained they are well-known for their high quality of customer service.
If an Exito is nearby, backpackers use them to buy everything from groceries to cheap button-down shirts and khaki pants for those teaching interviews. Appliances, computers, cell phones, and more can also be found.
Carrefour is a similar chain, however I have yet to visit them.
My current apartment is located within walking distance of both stores so they will likely be seeing more of my money in the near future.
Over the weekend, I visited my first upscale mall in the city, El Tesoro Parque Comercial.
Located higher up the mountainside in the region of El Poblado, the views of the mountains on the opposite side of the valley were spectacular.
Given I am on a strict budget, shopping malls are the last place I should be spending my time.
I managed to leave with no bags in my hand, and a good impression of the shopping opportunities in Medellin.
Yesterday, I stopped by Oviedo, another upscale mall in El Poblado.
I recognized some of the same local shops, as well as some more familiar names like Tommy Hilfiger. I even picked up a black Kenneth Cole shirt on sale for 50% off.
As much as I like my green and grey striped Element shirt, I can´t continue to rely on it alone for nights out on the town.
Like El Tesoro, the design of the mall incorporated indoor and outdoor spaces. I especially liked the food court which was sheltered by a massive four-story tree sprouting up from within.
I´ve never been to southern California, but I imagine the same open-air style of mall design exists there too.
I still have yet to venture into the cheaper, street-style marketplaces, however after visiting them in various other countries last year, I am happy to be spending a little more time in the familiar atmosphere of western-syle malls.
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Dude - I am in shock. I was looking forward to reading about your culture shock and reacclimating back into the the good 'ol USA way of life. Especially in this current economy. But it looks like reading about the trials and tribulations your new life in Medellin will also be exciting. Good luck!