Sunday, May 10, 2015

Medellín: What a View

What do you do when a teacher strike lasts nearly three weeks in Colombia? Travel, of course! In addition to spending time in coastal cities like Santa Marta and Cartagena, another volunteer and I flew into Medellín, a city tucked within the mountains of the interior of the country. 

Medellín, known for its springtime temperatures and picturesque views, gave us a much-needed break from the squelching heat of the coast. Medellín bustled with a diversity and urban flavor that can be rare to encounter in Barranquilla. 

From Pueblito Paisa, we could see for miles around the city. As the sun set, the landscape sparkled with the lights of the houses and cars beneath us. The view seemed surreal. 


At El Museo de Castillo, we learned about one of Medellín's wealthiest industrial families and toured the castle that they once called home. The house burst with collections of glass, art, books, and even hundreds of tiny spoons. 


At Barrío, a lively stop along the Metro, we saw works by the famous Boltero. Oversized bronze statues of men, women, and animals lined the park. 


We toured the Museo de Arte Moderno and caught a unique glimpse of Colombian architecture through its Utopia exhibit. 


Our visit to Medellín was impetuous...and one of the best experiences that I have had since coming to Barranquilla. Seeing a new place was energizing. Being surrounded by such lush, green scenery was rejuvenating.  The vegetarian food options were in abundance, especially in the Poblado district of the city. I am refreshed by this wealth of unexpected time that I had to see another side of Colombia...and ready to return to the classroom!




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