Colombia Expat Forum

Jaybee315
Joined 2016
Posts: 157

7 years ago

Medellin - First week impressions

7 years ago

After a rough week getting rid of everything in the US and moving out of my apartment, and weather delays for my flight to Bogota, I'm now in Medellin. My boss has put me in a great apartment at the south end of Poblado. The location is good, everything I need is close by. My friends here have been incredible. They made sure I have everything I need, except a can opener. Fortunately, Jumbo is just a short walk away. My experience moving here is not typical. I didn't have to deal with trying to rent an apartment, or with the hassles of getting internet and I've had English-speaking guides all week. The only difficulty was finding a place to get keys made. I've been introduced to a few Colombians so far and everyone has been friendly and helpful. My friends have taken me to several different restaurants. All have been good and prices are excellent, All have cost from 13,500 to 17,500 pesos. That's for entree, soup and/or salad, rice and vegetable. Air quality hasn't bothered me, but it is noticeable. The water is fine. I've drank only filtered water for the last 7 years and it tastes okay without filtration. Traffic noise is a minor issue. I'm located between Las Vegas Ave and (I think) Poblado Ave, but I'm getting used to it. Weather is good if you like the 60° to 85° range, with scattered showers most days. There is usually a nice breeze. So far, no real complaints. There are some things to get used to. Windows without screens (flying insects aren't a big problem), no flat land, few straight roads and nobody is in a hurry, unless they are driving. I don't think service is bad, everything is just more relaxed.

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