Vacationing in Medellin
August 5th, 2011
Many people travel to Medellin for vacation or as part of a South American tour. This second largest Colombian city is home to over two million people, and it is the capital city in the department of Antioquia. It is in the Aburra Valley surrounded by scenic mountains that are part of the famous Andes mountain range. Although it is near the equator, the fresh cool air from the mountains and the elevated altitude provide what has been called the perfect climate. In fact, the common nickname is “City of Everlasting Spring” which is a well deserved sobriquet. Average daytime temperatures are around 71 degrees F (22C), and night temperatures are in the range of 50 to 60 degrees F which is good sleeping weather. The climate alone makes for a very relaxing holiday trip.
Medellin has a vibrant street life with busy markets that enhance the charm of the city for tourists. A thriving nightlife is fueled by the universities in the area that attract young adults from all parts of the country. The active cultural life centers around four preeminent theatres that provide an outstanding variety of opera, ballet, theater and music concerts. A primo local festival called the “Feria de las Flores” or Flower Festival occurs during the first week of August. It is worthwhile to schedule your vacation to coincide with this gala event. Other events include the July International Poetry Festival which attracts poets from around the world and the Festival of Christmas Lights that occurs annually from mid-December to mid-January. It is said that the lights decorating Medellin turn it into the most beautiful city in Latin America.
Medellin has all sport venues at the same place. The Estadio Atanasio Girardot is a part of the Unidad Deportiva Atanasio Girardot sports complex that was built in 1953. The two local professional Medellin football or soccer teams – Independiente Medellin and Atletico Nacional – often have matches here. The stadium has hosted several important sporting events such as the Copa America 2001 organized by the South American governing body for football and the 2010 South American Games with 15 participating nations. The prestigious FIFA Under 20 World Cup 2011 will include Medellin as a semi-final match venue. This event is also called the Juvenile Football World Cup, and a successful staging of this event could promote Colombia as a host for the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Entry Filed under: sports leisure travel