No Dar Papaya: The Colombian Rule Every Traveler Should Know

halves of ripe papaya on a black background with leaves top view

Safety is a significant concern for tourists and new expats alike. To stay safe in Medellin and Colombia, understanding local customs is essential. One of the most important concepts is “No dar papaya.” This phrase translates to “Don’t give papaya,” meaning don’t make yourself an easy target. It serves as a practical warning for avoiding […]

The ultimate MDE Airport Medellin guide

mde airport medellin

In recent years, Medellín has emerged as a prominent destination for travelers from around the globe. For many, this journey starts at José María Córdova International Airport (MDE Airport Medellin), a modern hub connecting Medellín with a wide range of domestic and international locations. As the primary airport serving Medellín and its surrounding areas, MDE […]

Exploring Provenza in Medellin

Provenza Medellin

Next to Comuna 13, Provenza stands out as Medellín’s most famous neighborhood. Immortalized in a song by Karol G and frequented by celebrities like Bad Bunny, TimeOut magazine has recognized this area as one of the coolest streets in the world. Provenza is not just a single street nor an entire neighborhood; it is a […]

Is Medellin safe?

Is Medellin safe

Is Medellin safe? I get asked this question all the time. People who have never been here still have a (distorted) image of Medellin and Colombia, and while the country can still be hazardous in some parts, Medellin has made strides in terms of safety. The 80s and 90s were highly violent times, but nowadays, […]

Time and weather in Medellin

Weather and time Medellin

Time in Medellín Medellín operates on Colombia Time (COT), which is equivalent to Central Standard Time (CST) in the United States. This puts Medellín in the same time zone as Chicago, Houston, Quito, and Lima. However, since Colombia does not observe Daylight Saving Time, during that period, Medellín matches Central Daylight Time (CDT). As a […]

Prepagos Medellin Guide to have fun and stay safe

prepagos medellin

Welcome to our Prepagos Medellin Guide. One of the most common questions I get is about women in Medellín—where to meet them and whether it’s dangerous. What people are really asking about, though, is “prepagos” (prostitutes). With the new mayor taking a tougher stance on sex tourism and prostitution, the issue has become more controversial […]