Y PARTICIPA EN LA RIFA DE UN VUELO
EN HELICOPTERO
COMUNA 13
MEDELLĂ?N SECRET WATERFALL
FERIA DE FLORES
City in Bloom
JERGAS PAISAS Funny Phrases from colombian slang
Editor: Inside MedellĂn Writers: Sophie Bellamy Roisin Mulligan Cecilia HernĂĄndez Aaron Stone Conor McCarthy Fiona Niederberger Photos: Juan Carlos VelĂĄsquez Posada Anna Maria GonzĂĄlez Design: Carlos Daniel CastaĂąeda Badel David Moreno Bussiness Manager: Florian Benjamin Niederberger Sales Director: Christophe Martin Courtesy of: MedellĂn.Travel / Greater MedellĂn Bureau
BURNING HOUSE
The underground parties everyone is talking about
MUSEO EL CASTILLO History in the heart of modern medellin
GUIDE
Food & Drink Health & Wellness Services
313 429 64 33
insidemedellin@gmail.com
Follow us: @insidemedellin @insidemedellin
insidemedellin.com.co
Text: Sophie Bellamy
Photos: Anna Maria Gonzalez
Photos: Anna Maria Gonzalez
GRAFFITY COMUNA 13 TOUR: See the transformation, discover brush strokes in walls, know the feeling of people who said there hope and where walls scream art.
GUATAPE PAINTBALL TOUR: Know the East of Antioqua, its beauty, its people and enjoy Paintball in an epic scenario and full of history.
PARAGLIDINGTOUR: You have already stepped on the city, now look at it from the high, feel the smell of its mountains and marvel at the air that blows your face and tells you live.
ATV'S TOUR: Roaring engines, the adventure calling in four wheels, the mountain waiting for you and the adrenaline present in each curve. Say yes to the fun. COFFEE TOUR: Discover its flavor, its smells, discover the people who put it in your table, vibrate, learn, taste and feel like a drink grower who says good to you days every morning.
www.vitmedellin.com /vitmedellin
say code:
INSIDE MEDELLIN!!
@vittoursmedellin +(57)312 6923644
CITY TOUR: It's not just buildings, it's your story. They are not only streets, are experiences. It's not just Medellin, it's its people. Walk and you will know why you will not want to go.
And get a big
discount
Carrera 35 # 7-24 Office 201
PROVENZA POBLADO
INTERCOL is a visa consultation agency with over 18 years of experience in immigration. They specialise in helping foreigners of all nationalities navigate Colombia's visa system, and pride themselves on offering a trustworthy, flexible and affordable service. Apart from the visa consultations, they also offer advice on obtaining cedulas, creating a company, translating documents and providing apostilles. Intercom is a company with a focus on community. They welcome everyone who wants to stay in Colombia long-term, and will do everything they can do help their customers to do just that.
F.A.Q’s
How To Legally Stay in Colombia for Six
I am a digital nomad who is approach-
To obtain a business visa, don’t I need to
Months or More?
ing the end of my 6 month tourist visa.
show that I have a lot of money in my
What steps can I make to stay in
bank account?
“Colombia: the only risk is wanting to stay”.
Colombia? There is a lot of misinformation surrounding
We’re all familiar with the slogan from the Colombian tourist board. For many of us, what
Many entrepreneurs visit Colombia for its
this particular area, but the short answer is NO
was supposed to be a short visit to the City of
affordability, beautiful scenery and vibrant
– At the beginning you do not need to show any
Eternal Spring turns into a stay lasting weeks or
culture. In order to stay past the 6 month tourist
specific amount of money in your bank account
even months. But that dreaded 180 day deadline
visa, digital nomads can obtain a Tipo M visa
in order to get a Tipo M visa Socio-Propietario.
rolls around quicker than we would like and
Socio-Propietario. This visa can be valid for 3
The only reason this could happen would be for
before we know it, it’s time to enter the overly
years.
if the Ministry of Foreign Affairs request it.
convoluted visa process or make a quick exit
To obtain this, it is necessary to open a business
over the border.
in the applicant’s name, which sounds more
This has long been accepted as the narrative for
complicated than it is. In reality, the applicant
visitors to Colombia. It may come as some
just needs to organize their identification and
surprise then that there are in fact several ways
arrange a consultation with us and we will take
in which travellers can stay in Colombia past the
care of all the paper work. After that, we will
180 day tourist visa, completely legally. We
assist them in the creation of a business and in
spoke to Jaime, the manager of a visa consulta-
obtaining a salvoconducto (a piece of paper
tion service InterCol with over 18 years of
which allows you to stay 1 month after your visa
experience in the field, to answer some of the
expires paying a penalty for overstaying) if
most common questions from Expats wishing to
necessary, that will not affect the visa process at
extend their stay.
all. Text: Roisin Mulligan
I have already overstayed my visa by a
I have a job in Colombia, but my work
few weeks. Will I be penalised or even
won’t give me the documents I need for
deported if I seek assistance in getting a
a work visa. What do I do?
new visa? Many foreigners fall in love with Colombia when
One of the biggest issues we have found is that
they visit and for some, this leads to an overstay
many local businesses do not have knowledge
in the country. Because they are scared of the
of the immigration and legal system. In these
consequences, many do not seek visa assistance.
cases, we make contact with the company and
At InterCol, we are very open it is our job to find
tell them the requirements and necessary
a solution to our customers’ problems; they can
documents for their employees to obtain the
feel free to tell us about their foreign problems.
work visa. We always try our hardest to be as
It is very important for us to know the foreigners
transparent as possible with the clients and our
status so we can start from that to find the
contacts.
solution.
I am from a country outside Europe and
What are your prices and how do I get
the USA and often face visa rejections.
in touch?
How can I ensure that won’t happen Our prices depend on the type of visa, the We understand that obtaining a visa can be
nationality of the applicant and whether the
difficult for some nationalities. That’s why we
applicant needs additional service of our
don’t turn those people away, but work extra
lawyers or accountants for the process. We are
hard to find them the support they need. We
always happy to discuss options with whoever
even offer discounts for nationals from countries
may need help, as we understand that the visa
such as Venezuela.
process in Colombia is difficult for outsiders to get their head round.
@TramitesInterCol
www.inter-col.com
+57(4) 4444 659 • (310) 359 40 64 • (350) 787 04 83 @TramitesInterCol
´ Calle 32C No 66C-8 (Malibu) ´ Calle 19 No 80-168 (Belen) Medellin - Colombia
La Cascada
Do you like the idea of having a stunning waterfall all to yourself? We certainly do, which is why we were excited to hear whispers among locals that there’s an incredible cascada just a 20 minute drive from downtown MedellĂn. La Cascada Bocana in Vereda Media Luna has somehow missed the attention of most of the tourists, expats and digital nomads calling MedellĂn home, but it’s a secret that everyone should be in on.
La Cascada Bocana is on the steep road up to the town of Santa Elena, and as you ascend into the mountains the views of MedellĂn are incredible. You can see the entire city spread out below you, and as you pass through the huge barrio of Buenos Aires you’ll see La Sierra: once the most dangerous areas of the city. When you arrive at your destination, you’ll hear the waterfall before you see it. There’s no four hour hike needed to reach this spectacular sight, simply take the small dirt track off the main road and you’re there. As you turn the corner you’re greeted with the awe inspiring sight of gallons of water pouring over the side of the rock face into a perfectly picturesque pool below. When we went on a Wednesday morning we had the entire place to ourselves. The night before it had rained so the falls were in full force, and the spray was beautifully refreshing on that hot and sunny morning. There are plenty of huge rocks dotted around the waterfall to lie out on and catch some rays, or to chill out and have a picnic on. When it’s been raining less there are lots of small ‘charcos’, or pools, that you can swim in too. The spot is popular with locals are the weekend, and if you head up on a Saturday, a Sunday or a holiday you’ll see families from the surrounding barrios enjoying a refreshing dip under the cascading waters.
Food and drink There is a small and simple restaurant directly across the road from the waterfall selling tasty Colombian treats including chorizos, arepas de choclo and hot chocolate with cheese (it might sound strange but trust us, it’s delicious). There are also beers and soft drinks on offer if you want to quench your thirst after a swim. Alternatively, Restaurante Las Truchas is a five minute walk along the road back into town and is open weekends and holidays. They farm their trucha (trout) at the restaurant so the fried fish is incredibly fresh and delicious. It’s served with potatoes, patacones (fried plantain fritters) and salad and is only 21,000 COP. They also offer other traditional local dishes including frijoles rancheros and sancocho de gallina (a tasty soup with corn and chicken).
Getting there The waterfall isn’t signposted, but the dirt path to it is on the right side of the road just after you go over a bridge with yellow railings (if it’s rained you might be able to see the stream below the bridge). Once you pass Restaurante Las Truches you’ll know that you’re close. A taxi will take 15-20 minutes from El Poblado or 25-30 minutes from Laureles, and shouldn’t cost more than $30,000 COP. Alternatively, a bus leaves every ten minutes from Colegio CEFA and costs $2,400 one way. Tell the driver to let you off at La Cascada Bocana in Vereda Media Luna. You can catch the same bus back to town by simply waiting on the side of the road for it, either at the waterfall or at Restaurante Las Truchas. La Cascada Bocana is also close to Parque Arvi, so it’s possible to visit the waterfall in the morning and then head to the park. It can also be visited en route to Santa Elena, as many of the busses heading to the town use this road.
Useful information Colegio in “El Centro” (Centro Formativo de Antioquia) Calle 50 #41 - 55 Restaurante Las Truchas Calle 46 #10 este 929 Telephone: +57-4 226 16 90 Text: Sophie Bellamy
Fiona’s
Blog Hola amigos, I’m Fiona. I’m ten years old and I’m here to show you my MedellĂn. I really love my city, it’s so fun and there are lots of activities for kids and families to do. Today I want to tell you about Ciudad del Rio. Me and my dad like to go there when it’s sunny because there are so many things for us to do together. We like to take our dog Milu to the park with us. She’s a Jack Russell terrier and it’s fun to run around with her. I love animals and there are lots of other cute dogs there to play with. There’s a climbing wall which is very fun to play on, and sometimes I like to take my bike or my rollerblades on the cool half pipe. Most of the time we take a picnic with us, but sometimes dad lets us get lunch at the food carts. There is so much to choose from, but my favorite is hamburger and vanilla ice cream.
Lots of families go to Ciudad del Rio at the weekend, so I can meet other children and make new friends to play with. My dad really likes it at the park too! He can talk to other mums and dads and they can drink some beer together while we play. Sometimes we watch a film at the Museum of Modern Art in the evening, because it’s in the same area. They have a big screen outside once a month if the weather is nice, and they show great films like Disney’s Coco. We always eat loads of popcorn! We usually take the metro to Industriales, but dad drives if we take Milu. It’s really easy to get there and doesn’t take very long. We would love to see you there soon, and if you want to ask me or my dad any questions about Ciudad del Rio, you can write to us at insidemedellin@gmail.com. I’ll be back in the next issue to tell you about another one of my favorite places in MedellĂn. Bye for now! Fiona
FERIA DE
LAS FLORES Ă
A History of Flowers  Â?  Â? Â? Â? Â€ ‚ Â? ƒ Â? „ Â? …†  Â? à ‚ Â? ‡ˆ ƒ ‰ ƒ Š  Â? ‰ ƒ ‹ ‡Âˆ ÂŒ ˆˆ Ă
Photos: Juan Carlos Velasquez Posada
The Home of the Flowers ƒ ‰ ÂŽ Ă
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( ) Ă Âƒ Â?
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Photos: Juan Carlos Velasquez Posada
What to See and Do
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( ) í Photos: Juan Carlos Velasquez Posada
Fast Facts • • • • ¡ • • //
Text: Sophie Bellamy
FACES OF THE FLOWER FESTIVAL
Photos: Juan Carlos Velasquez Posada
FLOWER FAIR PROGRAMMING
For more information visit: insidemedellin.com.co @insidemedellin
DENTISTRY WITH A DIFFERENCE!
DENTISTRY WITH A DIFFERENCE!
Welcome to Medellin! If you haven't come to this vibrant city to take care of your dental needs, it's something you should consider. Dr. Adriana CastaĂąo and Dr Lina Rizzo at International Smiles. These MedellĂn natives who received their dental education and training in both Colombia and outside the country, are absolutely committed to change the way you think and feel about dental care abroad. Dr. CastaĂąo’s approach is holistic and unique, and you’ll see her philosophy evident in all the extras you’re more likely to find in a spa than in a dental office. The entire International Smiles team will pamper you with hand warmers, blankets, eye massagers, aromatherapy, calm music and even an optional headh and neck massage to relax your jaws and quiet your mind. And while most traditional dental offices tend to three or more patients at the same time, Adriana and Lina make sure that the focus remains on you for your entire visit.
Along with all the classic methods dentists employ in order to create a pain-free experience, They support their practice with Neuraltherapy, ozone therapy, acupuncture and neurolinguistic programming. Another option for relaxation is intravenous and Nitrous oxide sedation. According to Dr. Castaùo, we see our patients as the whole person, and who's behind the smile. The holistic practice is built on the idea that the entire body is interconnected. Problems with teeth or gums can affect the rest of the body, and the impact of stress commonly shows first in our mouths.�
After receiving a scholarship from Harvard Dental School less than 20 years ago, Dr. CastaĂąo worked at the Forsyth Institute and began to climb the ladder of professional dentistry in the United States. After completying a four year program at Nova South eastern University where she also obtained a certificate as Periodontist, she became licensed in Florida and Texas, also became a diplomate from the american academy of periodontology and practiced dentistry in US for three years. Then she returned to Medellin to pursue a different kind of practice. “I always felt that dentistry requires a more human approach. Adriana explains. “For that reason, I wanted to work in a more compassionate way, connecting with my patients whom become our friends.
contact us:
+57 300 310 81 93
+57 313 784 90 95
theinternationalsmiles@gmail.com www.internationalsmiles.co Calle 11 • 30 a 21 Medellin, COLOMBIA
WORKING WITH INTERNATIONAL CLIENTS The majority of Adriana and Lina´s patients are International travelers, and the practice is set up to accommodate their needs and their schedules. International Smiles has several advantages which sets them apart from other clinics: When Dr Adriana and Lina first see a patient, they work effortless time to ensure an affordable and effective treatment plan. There is a dental lab inside the clinic, so treatment can be reached more efficiently. As part of their Team they also count with a Root Canal Specialist to support their treatments when necesary, Dr Sara Posada, highly trained and extremely passionate about helping others, giving ultimate devotion and dedication for care to every single patient she gets refered to. When indicated, the International Smiles team also uses Homeopathic treatments because they are more gentle on the body, have none of the side effects that regular medications produce and still can be extremely effective.
“I always felt that dentistry requires a more human approach. Adriana explains. “For that reason, I wanted to work in a more compassionate way, connecting with my patients whom become our friends, rather than simply practicing dentistry for profit BEYOND DENTISTRY: THE PERSONAL TOUCH Around 90% of the patients who visit International Smiles are from abroad. This can range from expats who are permanently based in the city to visitors from USA who have come to Medellin looking for exceptionally high standards of Dental and Medical care at costs that represent a remarkable value for their American dollars. The entire team highly believe its vital to provide as much assistance as their patients need, its much more than dentistry alone: "We are commited to support them through the entire process by focusing on well being and satisfaction". Even afterwards, Adriana and Lina stay in touch, checking up and making sure recovery is going well and concerns get addressed. "Whatever their need, we are always around to help" She says. The International Smiles Dental Center is conveniently located in the Poblado area, the best one of the city; a safe, quiet and residential neighborhood. In case you are curious about this special team of care givers, feel free to check their online reviews then do not hesitate to contact them so all your dental needs will be uniquely addressed! Photos: Juan Carlos Velasquez Posada
Text: Roisin Mulligan
FACES
WHAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST FROM COLOMBIA?
OF MED
ELLIN
JULIUS, 25, GERMANY The weather and the landscapes are incredJOHN, 38, UNITED STATES
ible. In a single day you can see beaches,
Colombia is an incredible country but today I
jungle, mountains. I never saw so much
will talk about what I do not like. I do not like
biodiversity. On the other hand, as a soccer
the way religion poisons everything, how
fan, I was impressed by the atmosphere and
politicians and journalists use opportunistic
the fervor of the fans. There is a lot of passion here
phrases about the will and blessing of God. There are days when I think that religious fanaticism is the country's cancer and that it is doing even more harm than hunger, violence, corruption and drug trafficking.
ANYA, 35, POLAND The landscapes are incredible. As for the food, it is a return to the sources, to realize where the avocado comes from, for example, or coffee. These are products that Europeans use a lot without knowing the tree that produces it. If you have the opportunity, go to “La Mayorista�, it's really great!
HAMZA, 28, ALGERIA People are so friendly that I’m impressed. I travel a lot through South America, but Colombians have something special, they are very welcoming. In addition, MedellĂn is a city that strives to show the world its capabilities and transmits its impressive tourism opportunities.
ETIENNE, 26, BELGIUM I got sick here in Medellin but luckily I had taken out insurance before coming. I recommend all travelers to do it because otherwise going to the hospital is high priced! Without insurance, my trip would be over
INSIDEMEDELLIN.COM.CO
JANE & MIKE, 32 & 38, AUSTRALIA
LISA, 24, FRANCE For me, Medellin is a real example of the
Its geographical location, with coasts in the
paradigm of a city, thanks to social and
FLAVIO, 36, ITALY
cultural innovation. Here, all the inhabitants
It's a cultural slap. Medellin is impressive
jungles, mountains, valleys, makes it a very
and the City Hall seem to walk together for
because it is a modern city. Most of the
diverse country. Its flora, fauna, its richness
this city, marked by a strong and violent
museums are free. I feel a certain orderly
of fruits and vegetables, and even its
history, to continue to develop.
disorder in the city. It's the culture of doing
cultural diversity. The best experience for
it well.
us was the traditional festivities in all the
Pacific and the Atlantic, desert, plains,
cities and small towns, and the trips to the nature,
caves,
climbing
practice, for scuba diving.
ROMAIN, 26, BELGIUM When I arrived, I did not speak any Spanish but there was always a way to communicate and converse with the Colombians. They are all very welcoming without exceptions. Although the city is very large, Medellin is a place where it is very good to live. I stayed at the Almarita hostel, which is super nice, as if I shared a flat with some friends.
GUILLAUME, 33, FRANCE I moved in to Medellin almost four months ago and I am still surprised with the good quality
of
the
public
transportation,
especially the metro. This city is much modern than I ever thought.
areas,
sailing
FUNNY PHRASES FROM
COLOMBIAN SLANG YOU SHOULD KNOW
(LA JERGA COLOMBIANA) 1. A Colombian doesn’t “make a mistakeâ€?‌ they “shit it.â€? (La caguĂŠ) 2. Colombians like to pool money to pay for drinks and meals when they do, they’re “making a cow.â€? (Hacemos una vaca) 3. Colombians don’t “joke aroundâ€? they “give a blowjob to a rooster.â€? (EstĂĄn mamando gallo) 4. Don’t be alarmed if a Colombian says that they want you to “stop their ballsâ€?‌ they just want you to pay attention to them. (ÂĄPĂĄrame bolas!) 5. If Colombians are angry, they don’t merely “leaveâ€?‌ they “open themselves.â€? (Se abriĂł) 6. In Colombia, a misbehaving little boy isn’t a “bratâ€?‌ he’s a “shit from an ass.â€? (Culicagao) 7. A Colombian doesn’t “hook upâ€? with someone‌ instead, they “eat them.â€? (Ella se lo comiĂł) 8. Colombians don’t “put themselves in a position where they will be laughed atâ€?‌ they just “give papaya.â€? (EstĂĄ dando papaya) 9. Colombians don’t “hang outâ€?‌they “make a patch.â€? (Estamos parchando) 10. Colombians don’t “flirtâ€? with each other‌ they’d much rather “release the houndsâ€? at them! (Él le echĂł los perros)
INTERNATIONAL SMILES: DENTISTRY WITH A DIFFERENCE!
EVERYONE IS INVITED!
contact us:
Come to our Open House Party in Aug 10th at 2pm. You will enjoy a friendly environment to meet and greet our doctors and staff, free consultations with head and neck massages, digital Smile design, raffles and discounts on future treatments, Live DJ music and complimentary food so you can experience the full international Smiles experience!
+57 300 310 81 93
theinternationalsmiles@gmail.com www.internationalsmiles.co
TA K
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CIT
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45
us
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ro sf ur whenever you want
y a od
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Calle 11 • 30 a 21 Medellin, COLOMBIA
to Start your tour
+57 313 784 90 95
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Ask us about our tours and discounts!
Skydiving Guatapé Coffee Tour luxury cars For everyone 24/7 Santa fe de antioquia essional guides! with bilingual prof and many more! Tel: (57) 268 3819 - cel: (57) 311 341 3715 / info@medellincityservices.com / medellincitytours.com Private customizable tours
Hotel pick up and drop off
Text: Sophie Bellamy
DO YOU WANT TO OBTAIN YOUR FOREIGNER ID CARD? We offer you specialized guidance and bespoke solutions for:
COLOMBIAN VISA FOREIGNER’S ID CARD INVESTMENT IN COLOMBIA CONTACT US AND ASK FOR OUR FREE INITIAL CONSULTING (BILINGUAL) @TramitesInterCol
@TramitesInterCol
+57(4) 4444 659 - (310) 359 40 64 - (350) 787 04 83 Calle 32C No 66C-8 (Malibu) Calle 19 No 80-168 (Belen) - Medellin/Colombia
www.inter-col.com
THE STUNNING PARTY EVERYBODY IS CRAVING FOR IN MEDELLÍN Oscar from Medellín International Exchange Organization (MIEO) takes us to another dimension and explains how the idea was born and how it creatively helps social background in Medellin.
It actually started as a non-conventional and private gathering which Oscar and a bunch of friends called “Burning House Fiesta”. Unfortunately, the owner of the house they were renting felt not so confident about it and the fire was extinguished. Determined to keep the idea on, they decided to rent a splendid colonial house in the city center and the activity was successfully held. The parties started naturally a few months later, once Burning House ambassadors rented the same residence to arrange an epic birthday celebration, in which 200 guests were expected but more than 500 showed up. More than a big project a concept was just born. The crew has lit the fire in different places, from an Egyptian temple dated from 1932 to an underground bar located inside an industrial neighborhood. They are always looking for unconventional and hidden amazing venues and all of the efforts are clearly put in decorating the place to craft a unique and unforgettable theme for each event.
@MIEO.Colombia
mieo_colombia
Circus artists, dancers, visual shows and of course fire: their challenge, as Oscar explains, is to explore and push further their creativity. At the same time, they seek for exceptional sites which are large enough to fit their growing audience, while sticking to their underground conception. The line-up is also their key to create an incomparable atmosphere. There is a lot of hard work involved to find local talented DJs who might need a take-off ramp to make their breakthrough in music scene. Thanks to Burning House proposal they have the perfect chance to perform along with well-known DJs. A part of the profits contributes significantly to local social causes such as workshops, cultural events and even community gardens. So far, one has been set up in Comuna 13 and another one in Santo Domingo, both of them known as vulnerable and complicated neighborhoods in MedellĂn. MIEO Colombia also decided to diversify the experience and produce smaller and more intimate techno episodes called “Burning Sessionsâ€?. At the same time, other enjoyable and cultural events are organized, such as touring trips, hiking activities and social projects. You can be part of the next Burning House incredible edition on August 20th, which will be held in a unique place than can host up to 650 people.
Fast & Furious: The City of Eternal Spring A gringo’s account of driving in Medellin As I stopped at a red light on my motorcycle, waited for it to change, sat comfortably in between two cars, got to take a look in the mirror and see behind me a line of motorcycles, which without any delay started to go weaving in between one another and only inches separating all of them as the traffic moves along, all this; just seconds after the pedestrian crossing light turned red and with the traffic light still red, crazy? Well, this kind of driving is the norm in MedellĂn. Of all the places I could have chosen to learn to ride a motorcycle two years ago, MedellĂn may have been the strangest option. For someone accustomed to the wide lanes and strict driving rules of North America, nothing could have prepared me for the organized chaos of Paisa driving. Although I say it is crazy, driving a motorcycle in MedellĂn has its perks; you save money and time, learn about new parts of the city, and even look like a local. One of the main perks of driving here is the ability to go anywhere. Paisas seem to follow to an unwritten rule of “si quepo, me metoâ€?, or if I fit, I can split, so; It’s not uncommon when driving down a three-lane street such as la diez during hora pico (rush hour) convert to a five-laner, and that is excluding the motorcycle “lanes.â€? When the cars are stopped, you’ll see motorcycles squeezing between any space just to get ahead. When I say any space, I mean any space. Another perk of driving in Medellin is the etiquette. Most people are generous enough to let you through, well, mostly. If you ask nicely, you’ll get the two beeps of a horn for a yes, and you better give two beeps back in to say “thanks.â€? Taxis will often wave red towels and honk if they are carrying an injured person, and everyone respects them as if they were an official ambu lance with sirens. Not everything is perfect in paradise, though. MedellĂn has a high accident rate. Seeing rushing ambulances, motorbikes in pieces on the streets, or even seeing the accidents occur is not an uncommon experience. The traffic is some of the most congested traffic I’ve ever seen. Traffic jams are more colloquially referred to as tacos, which is odd, because tacos are amazing, and well, traffic jams are not. Having a car here requires an immense amount of patience, and riding a motorcycle requires being even more aware of your space and of others. There are some strange things that you don’t see every day anywhere else, but MedellĂn isn’t anywhere else. You may see up four or five people on one scooter, party-goers spraying foam from a Chiva party bus, or even a group of 17 year-old kids doing wheelies in the public streets. Overall, riding in MedellĂn has been a blast and a crazy learning experience. If you decide to take the jump and ride a motorcycle in the city of eternal spring just remember to wear a helmet, be responsible, and don’t give papaya! (see page 26 number 8)
Luz Naranjo is a doctor who was born in Colombia but completed her internship in the United States. Now she supports people in the most proficient manner in her home country, since she graduated as a general practitioner and then specialized in occupational health. However, her English skills and high quality medical services have made her popular among expatriates in Medellin.
The primary service provided is general medical consultation, which can take place in the facility or residentially. In addition, Dr. Naranjo performs small procedures and provides phone or text consultation. Besides, she is also connected to a network of bilingual specialists, such as ophthalmologist, dermatologist and plastic surgeons, and accompanies the patients to all specialist appointments if required.
She initially became popular in Facebook due to her bilingual services, but her dedication, high standard of services and especially testimonials among the English-speaking community gave Dr. Naranjo more visibility and now she mainly assists expats.
Dr Naranjo’s clinic has a full equipped laboratory as well, which offers regular exams, annual check-ups, or tests for specific diseases. However, she also partners with other facility which aids to collect samples off site. Occupational medical examination is also provided for those who will work with a Colombian company, since it is mandatory by law. The cost for that service is 80,000COP but the price can vary if further analyses are needed. The clinic also offers screening for STDs, counseling for planned parenthood, reproductive health checks, women's integral health, a vision screening area, imaging services, children’s examinations, pap smears and guidance with health insurance. Prices were set to be reasonable for locals or even people who are traveling on a budget: General medical consultation in Medellin is priced at 80.000 COP. House calls cost 100.000COP (city area). Also, all visits can be paid in US dollars and the lab area accepts card payment.
(+57) 317 6204480 @drluznaranjo OR VISIT THE CLINIC AT: Carrera 81 a #48 a 16 (barrio floresta close to laureles)
Text: Cecilia Hernandez
REGULAR SCHEDULE: MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 7:00AM TO 5:00PM WEEKENDS: DEPENDING ON AVAILABILITY
Preserving the planet one step after another Ecocalzer Company is an admirable project run by Lisa Domergue, Jefferson Moreno and Daniel Cardona that manufactures eco-friendly footwear. Every piece is entirely made with ethic craft techniques and natural textiles, which still have active seeds inside them with the purpose of growing a tree whenever a pair of shoes is disposed of or planted in any type of soil or climate. The main idea sprouted in John Pizarro’s mind due to his deep respect for nature and the need of change he perceived in Colombian society, especially his community. He decided to contribute through this project after he studied textile design and had his first work experience in the clothing industry. It all started in 2011 with four people involved. Their main idea was to produce regular shoes that could help against pollution. However, the research went on to find out how Ecocalzer could generate a complete ecological impact, which was challenging for a new product in the market. Aware that natural and biodegradable fabric had to be used, John and his collaborators decided to work with ‘fique’, which is the most representative fiber in Colombia. Text: Cecilia Hernandez
Photos: Juan Carlos Velasquez Posada
The first prototypes were planted at the Botanical Garden in Medellin, and they germinated in about a year and a half. As far as John remembers, that was the most exciting and satisfying moment. Therefore, one of their main collections was inspired by the garden, its vibrant colors and the conception of happiness and its importance in every individuals’ life. Currently the sole is made with natural latex, organic glue, fique fibers, Leucaena and sunflower seeds, that can spring up within eight months. The fabric is crafted in artisan looms and dyed with natural pigments such as carrots, charcoal, leaves or stems: there are plenty of possibilities to create brilliant and captivating tones. The factory is located in the barrio Comuna 13. Nearly all partners are members of the community and share a special bond as a big family thatworks hard for a fair economy. About 22 people are now involved plus 9 women from the ‘Eco Tejidos’ foundation, who have been working on the looms since 2012 and were either victims of violence, have physical limitations or live in high vulnerability. Many artisans who have worked for Ecocalzer realized that they could generate income from something different than drug trafficking or violence and benefit others as well as the planet. Things can be done in a better way and human beings can accomplish their own wellness while keeping the cycles that mankind has broken in nature.
IMPORTANT FACTS: For more information and order you can visit: Ecocalzer-Company @Ecocalzer
Shoes are sold in local venues like ‘Café Alma de Barrio’,
* traditional fairs or social networks.
The natural soles are certified by Antioquia University and
N’, which is the largest venture company in South * ‘Ruta America.
In 2012 Medellin was presented as the most innovative city in
world and Ecocalzer won a prize at ‘Capital Semilla’ * the entrepreneurial contest. Ecocalzer was invited to attend Colombiamoda 2013 and
@Ecocalzer (+57)301 6655996
fashion events that involved them in a significant * other commercial platform. * The profits are mainly invested in research and development. A new workshop is expected to open around September in * Putumayo department, a still quiet indigenous region.
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Photo: Bryan Dodd
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Doctor Sandra Suarez Osorio graduated from the University of Antioquia. She has 18 years of experience and specializes in aesthetic restorative dentistry. She is part of a team of specialists that provides quality care in all areas of dentistry. Doctor Suarez Osorio provides preventive dentistry services and performs aesthetic modifications. Her modifications are done with the utmost care to ensure functionality and a natural looking appearance. She provides the patients with all the pertinent information related to treatment options and procedures, the prices for the services are fair and everything is explained to the patient using a level of English that allows the patient to understand their condition and make an informed decision about their treatment. All of the services occur in a comfortable facility, which is located in an easily accessible area of the Laureles neighborhood. The dental office has all the necessary and adequate equipment and most importantly Dr. Suarez Osorio will greet you with a warm smile to ensure every dental appointment is a pleasant experience. The services offered include: dental cleanings, teeth whitening, restorations, aesthetic dentistry, prosthetics, surgeries, implants, orthodontia, periodontics, and endodontics.
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Text: Sophie Bellamy
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Sudoku Puzzle
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Sudoku Puzzle
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Swiss bakery The perfect place to taste the real and healthy swiss bread, coffees, croissants, desserts, pizzas and hamburgers for lunch. Come visit us! Cra 48 7#104 Mall las vegas 10 next to Poblado metro station Patio Bonito (4) 506 19 41 pedidos@swissbakery.co www.swissbakery.co Bussiness hours: 7:30am – 5:00pm Monday to Saturday
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