Colombia’s Undiscovered City: Swap Medellin’s Chaos For Timeless Streets & Authentic Culture

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At this point, everyone already knows about Medellin. It’s been taken over by digital nomads and is popular among solo travelers too.

With that comes a lot of chaos that you don’t necessarily have to deal with to check Colombia off your list.

Is Medellin old news? No, not necessarily.

But don’t sleep on Colombia’s hidden gems.

While you may want to avoid visiting Bogota for more than a layover, and Medellin has its own set of issues we reported on earlier this year, there’s so much more to explore in this fascinating country.

Whether it’s beaches, ancient sites, or the timeless streets of Popayan, Colombia’s undiscovered city, it’s time to swap the chaos of Medellin for a more authentic experience amongst some of the country’s most picturesque surroundings.

Colombia’s Little Known Slice Of Spain

I get it. Saying there’s a ‘slice of Spain’ in the middle of Colombia might seem a bit dramatic, but what else do blocks and blocks of captivating whitewashed buildings remind you of?

Santorini perhaps? Now that would be a stretch!

With no blue trim and endless gleaming white structures, Spain is the best comparison since there’s no other place like this in the nation.

Plus, centuries ago, for better or worse, Popayan was on the Spanish conquistador’s trading route through South America, and the preservation of their lasting marks is incredible to visit.

How such a beautiful city has flown under the radar for so long is baffling, but it’s probably because Colombia has so many other popular destinations.

Popayan also has no international airport (which only serves a few domestic flights), so getting here is more of a trek than getting to Medellin, Cartegena, or Cali.

Speaking of, Cali is the most convenient gateway into Popayan by bus unless you connect by flight through Bogota via Avianca or Clic.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by stunning colonial architecture, historic cobbled streets, and virtually no tourists – but don’t worry; it’s safe here!

Safe And Insanely Budget-Friendly

Colombia’s white city, as it’s known, ticks all the boxes many travelers seek when venturing to this side of the world.

First, unlike Medellin, where it’s almost guaranteed you’ll have some sort of unfortunate run-in the longer you stay, Popayan is widely regarded as safe.

The only issue you’ll want to be aware of is that you may stand out like a sore thumb, being one of few tourists in the entire city of nearly 320,000 residents.

Furthermore, you can stay for cheap in one of the numerous beaming white buildings, whether a boutique hotel, hostel, or rental.

For example, you can stay at Hotel Dann Monasterio, a former 1500s monastery turned ritzy hotel for only $41 on Priceline.

Airbnbs on the other hand offer similar rates and more space than a traditional hotel room, so you have plentiful options at hand.

Monthly stays are even better, so those Medellin digital nomads tired of keeping their head on a swivel could definitely opt for Popayan for super cheap – think nice apartments for $300 – $450 per month.

Where do I sign up?

Calling All Foodies! UNESCO’S First ‘City of Gastronomy’

Oftentimes, UNESCO designated specific sites or regions to protect cultural heritage and encourage education.

But did you know they also do the same for food?

While it’s completely different than receiving Michelin stars, it still shows how incredible a place can be to indulge in local cuisine.

While Colombian restaurants aren’t as popular as they should be in the States, Colombian cuisine goes well beyond savory empanadas.

Popayan was the first ‘City of Gastronomy‘ recognized by UNESCO, particularly for its rich fertile soil resulting in fresh ingredients, whether it be locals’ favorite beverage chicha or corn pancakes.

Culinary traditions are well-preserved here thanks in part to UNESCO and partly due to the community’s’ sense of pride showcased at numerous restaurants here, where traditional methods are still used, such as esamargados (fruits and zest marinade).

While UNESCO doesn’t give restaurant recommendations per se, TripAdvisor sure does. Check out these 3 top-rated restaurants:

1. Restaurante Carmina (perfect rating!)
2. Mora Castilla
3. La Cosecha Parrillada Centro

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