Working Remotely in Medellín, Colombia
Medellin, or Medallo as it is sometimes referred to by locals, was at the top of my list to live in as a digital nomad due to its reputation for having a thriving remote work community, spring-like weather all year long, and amazing activities. When I was trying to decide between Medellin and Mexico City for my base in Latin America, I decided to live in Medellin for one month to test it out.
Overview
When To Visit
While the weather in Medellin can be somewhat unpredictable, with heavy showers one minute and blue sunny skies the next, in general, December to March and June to August are considered the dry season, where you’ll experience less rain. I spent the month of June there and experienced a lot of sun, but still a considerable amount of cloudiness and rain - this is just the reality of a more tropical climate.
Time Zone & Work Hours
The time zone in Medellin is GMT-5; therefore, it is 1 hour earlier there than Eastern time. This was convenient for me as I do work for a company based in New York City, but sometimes did mean that calls earlier in the morning were even earlier.
Getting a SIM Card
One of the first things that has to be sorted out whenever you get to a new country is, of course, internet access. There are a few main internet providers in Colombia, while I was there, I chose Claro as they were touted as having the most reliable and widespread coverage, but I read that Tigo is also a good bet.
Spanish Language
As you likely know, Spanish is the native language in Colombia. I will say that I have a pretty decent level of Spanish from living in both Spain and Mexico, and that getting around without it will be much more challenging in Colombia. You can get by, and many, many people do, but your life will be made a million times easier if you even just have the basics down.
Getting Around
Moving around Medellin is extremely comfortable and affordable. Wherever you are in the city, you can always order a Grab (taxi, or motorbike if you’re feeling adventurous).
Otherwise, you can use Medellin’s incredible public transit system, which includes metros, buses, and cable cars!
Choosing a Neighbourhood
When planning my month in Medellin, I knew I would be arriving alone in the city, without knowing anyone. After having a very positive experience with coliving through Covive in Mexico City, which I wrote a detailed review about here, I decided I wanted to do something similar.
After some research, I found a company called Nomadico, which offers a coliving experience geared towards digital nomads in various cities across the world, including Medellin! I decided to book myself a room at Caobo House, located in the Laureles neighbourhood, which cost me around 800$ US for the month.
Upon arrival, the owners were absolutely lovely and made my stay in Medellin so easy. The house was gorgeous, with 6 rooms, a common area, free access to a coworking space in a separate location, and they have recently completed some renovations to include an amazing rooftop!
This truly ended up being the best choice I could have made for my stay. Nomadico hires Community Managers who are in charge of organizing group activities every week, and even weekend trips to nearby locations.
Laureles, Medellin
In Medellin, most internationals generally stay in one of two neighbourhoods: Laureles and Poblado. I considered both for my stay and ended up choosing Laureles for various reasons, and after having visited both, I am glad I did.
Here are my observations for you to make the best choice for yourself:
Laureles is much more residential, green, and chill, while Poblado is the center of the action with all of the nightlife and bars
I found Laureles to be slightly cheaper in terms of accommodation and eating out
Additional note: the two neighbourhoods are further apart than I had thought, meaning if you want to travel between the two, you’d need to get a taxi or motorbike.
Remote Work Lifestyle
Cafes & Coworking Spots
Medellin has made quite a name for itself as a digital nomad hub, so there are countless cafes and coworking spots to choose from, and I feel like I barely scratched the surface during my month there.
Nevertheless, here are some of my fave spots:
Pergamino Cafe
This cafe has 2 locations, one in Laureles and another in Poblado. Both are great for working, with the one in Laureles being slightly quieter and easier to focus. Coffee is outstanding, which goes without saying for most places in Medellin.
Pergamino Cafe, Laureles
2. Délmuri Coffee & Bakery Shop
I loved working at this spot. You’ll find delicious drinks and many fellow remote workers set up with their laptops here!
3. Coworking Fenicia
This coworking space was included in my rent with Nomadico. Every week, we’d organize a coworking session with all of our housemates here, and it was always such a treat.
Activities
Gym & Dance Classes
Colombia is internationally known for its dance culture, from sala to bachata - you can find classes and instructors for any style, and you should!
If you’re looking to get a workout in at a gym, I chose SmartFit at Unicentro Mall because they have an easy month-to-month subscription for people who aren’t staying long term in the city. The equipment is well-maintained, and the price is affordable!
Comuna 13
A trip to Medellin is not complete without a visit to Comuna 13. Built high up into the hills, once a neighbourhood full of violence where Pablo Escobar recruited his newest members, local communities have transformed it into a place where tourists can visit safely to learn more about Medellin’s incredible history.
I highly recommend going with a local guide to support their initiative and learn from someone who has first-hand experience with living there.
Comuna 13
Parque Arvi
Parque Arvi is definitely worth a visit if you have more time in Medellin. Honestly, the journey there is probably as beautiful, if not more so, than the park itself. If you’re feeling like taking a cable car up into the hills and experiencing stunning views, then taking a chill hike through the park, Parque Arvi, is for you. Don’t forget to grab a chori-pan for lunch at the top, and yes, they have a vegan one!
Views from the cable car to Parque Arvi
Museums
There are tons of museums to visit if it’s ever a rainy day or you’re just curious. Admittedly, I only made it to one during my time in Medellin, which was the Medellin Modern Art Museum, but it was incredible and I highly recommend paying a visit!
Nightlife
Medellin is also known for its incredible nightlife. If you enjoy reggaeton music, you will find no shortage of venues to dance the night away. Perro Negro is located on the main bar street in Poblado, and it’s known because Bad Bunny actually named one of his hit songs after the club.
Another fun time is the Chiva bus, which is a party bus that takes you club hopping around the city and I can highly recommend for a fun night out.
Day Trips & Weekend Trips
Some of the best times I had while living in Medellin were spent outside of the city. Travel within and around Colombia is very accessible and affordable if you’re based in Medellin. Here I will give a high-level overview of the short trips I did while living in the city, and stay tuned for full adventure guides on these destinations.
Nuquí, Choco
Located about a 1.5-hour flight from Medellin on the wild Pacific coast of Colombia, Nuqui is a tiny coastal town that permanently altered my brain chemistry. Arriving by propeller plane, Nuqui is essentially an untouched tropical jungle and beach as far as the eye can see.
We stayed at a homestay with a local family who cooked all 3 meals for us each day. We did long beach walks, ate gigantic starfruit right off the tree, and explored hidden waterfalls in the jungle.
Tayrona National Park
Tayrona is arguably the most famous nature destination in all of Colombia. With its unspoiled beaches and incredible hiking, this is a trip I also highly recommend. While visiting, I chose to stay in the nearby fishing village of Taganga, which has easy access to the park. Once again, there are many important details to know when visiting the national park, so I will be writing a full article on this trip as well.
