Lost in Translation: Medellin & My Brain (1609776, 1764003406)
okay, so. medellin. wow. where do i even begin? i landed yesterday, and it’s already been a full-on sensory overload. the numbers - 1609776 and 1764003406 - they just floated around in my head all the way from the airport. feels like… well, like the hum of the city itself. i'm still processing.
The weather? it's… a warm hug. like someone wrapped you in a slightly humid blanket. the numbers said 26.22°C, feels like the same. Pressure's 1014, humidity's 57 - which is… okay, i guess. it's not unpleasant, just… present.
You know how it is when you arrive somewhere completely unfamiliar? instantly feeling like you’re missing a vital piece of the puzzle. i’m trying to embrace the chaos, but it's a lot. i'm staying in el poblado, which someone told me is the “real” medellin - definitely more character than some of the other zones.
so far, i've been wandering, mostly following my nose (and the occasional questionable street art). i’m trying to avoid the tourist traps, but i did check out a little cafe near plaza de la libertad - Yelp suggested it, said the coffee was insane. worth it. also, spent a good hour just watching life unfold from a park bench. people, kids playing, vendors selling arepas… pure, unadulterated medellin.
Someone told me to be careful around certain areas after dark. Apparently, there are some… interesting characters out there. Something about needing to avoid Calle 93 after 10 pm. Just a friendly heads-up, i guess.
Gear-ish stuff - i'm keeping it light. Mostly just my trusty backpack, a journal (for documenting the brain-ramble, naturally), and a ridiculously oversized sun hat. Oh, and portable charger - essential for all the photo ops. I'm relying on my phone for most things, but i might pick up a local SIM card later.
Speaking of photos, i’m trying to capture some of the energy, all the colors, the… everything. Honestly, i'm getting a little overwhelmed trying to filter it all through my lens. it feels like trying to bottle a thunderstorm. i've been hitting up a few local markets, the food is incredible. so many fruits i can't even name! i heard that the artisans market in Guatape is a must-see - might make a day trip there. There are some great guides on TripAdvisor if you want to plan your visit.
A local warned me about being overly trusting. Said a friendly face doesn't always mean a good intention. Good to remember, i suppose.
neighborhood vibes here are… intense. everyone’s got a story. and a smile, usually. i’m still deciphering the rhythm of the city, learning to navigate the streets, the sounds, the smells. it’s beautiful, chaotic, and totally addictive. *El Poblado is definitely giving off a different energy than Comuna 13*, based on what I've seen so far. It's great to see the city evolving, tackling its past, and building something new. someone told me that the botanical gardens are a fantastic escape from the city noise - definitely on my list.
Oh, and the music! Seriously, just everywhere.
I think i'm going to need a stronger coffee. this is going to be… interesting. i am checking out some local history tours on GetYourGuide - keen to learn more about all the layers of history here. It's just… so much to absorb.
I’m planning to head out to explore a bit more. I'll probably post again tomorrow… if i haven't been whisked away by a street performer or something. wish me luck!
Link to Colombian travel forum
Link to local food blog
TripAdvisor for Medellin
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