About Medellín
Where is Medellín located?
The city is the capital of Antioquia, located west and north of Bogotá, about half an hour by plane from the country’s capital. It has an altitud of 1500 over sea level, and a mild temperature. If you travel within the country, you should take a plane. Distances can be measured by the time it will take to get to another city. Flying to Bogotá will take half an hour, while going by car can take up to 9 hours. Cartagena is one hour away by plane, and a little more you will need to get to the Amazonia. Cali is 35 minutes away flying, and San Andrés Island is one and a half hour away by plane.
Which is the real safety condition in the city?
If you know where you are going, and you avoid being alone on the streets at night, you are safe. There is pickpocketing activity like in any other big city, and going out of the city by car could be dangerous. We recommend consulting your Consulate or Embassy before taking a trip. Students are recommended to get acquainted and go to places where other students go, not to talk to strangers and not to carry lap-tops or big backpacks while walking on the streets. Call a taxi of a company recommended to you, rather than taking anyone that passes by, especially at night.
Where can I live in Medellín?
Unless you have friends or relatives who offer you housing, it is advisable to stay with a family at first, until you decide whether you want to share an appartment with other students or be on your own. The International Relations Office has a number of places and can help you out. Renting an appartment is not an easy option, since a co-signer is usually required. We also advise to be close to a Metro Station, since it is the best public transportation facility. Neighborhoods like El Poblado, Laureles, Estadio, an the town of Envigado are nice places to inhabit.