I just returned from my latest trip to Colombia – my 43rd visit, to be exact. This time it was a quick stop, just long enough to see Medellín’s ongoing transformation quietly unfolding in plain sight. I have to admit, writing this makes me feel like I’m channeling my inner New York Times travel editor….you know, those 36- or 48-hour city guides by Nell McShane Wulfhart? I love those articles. So here I am, ironically once again writing from a plane seat, sharing my best Nell McShane Wulfhart-style take on Medellín. No transformation tour, no museums, and definitely no Comuna 13 (which, sadly, has become Colombia’s new poster child for overtourism).
This time, it was four comunas – 14, 10, 6, and 3 – in 48 hours. This 36th visit to Medellín offered a completely new way to experience one of my favorite cities. From a community kitchen cooking class tucked away in a secluded neighborhood that doubles as a social impact project, to exploring the country’s largest private orchid collection on the way to the airport, to a coffee experience that skips the bean tasting in favor of farm-to-bean eating high up in the hills – this is the Medellín you HAVE to see.
The highlight? Comuna 3 and the inspiring Constellations Project. It took me 36 visits to finally hear someone say what truly needed to be said – and Javier in Comuna 3 did just that. There’s a significant generational gap there, especially among those aged 31 to 52, and bridging it will require thoughtful, responsible tourism. (More on that soon in a blog post and podcast episode.)
Oh and I’ve found a new favorite hotel in Medellín. I even have another cocktail named after me. (ego stroke)
Enjoy the video.
