The food is unique and wonderful. There are indigenous (Comida Tipica) foods, international cuisines and local beers and liqueurs that are superb. Fresh juices and fruits are available everywhere on the streets, in shops and elsewhere. Sample or guzzle the best coffee in the world… in the opinion of many aficionados. You can try the roastings of different provenances and visit local growing regions near Medellin. A three-ounce espresso costs $0.87 everywhere.

Biking is a passion as are sports and swimming in venues all over the city. Major roads are closed to traffic on Sundays for bikes and hikes.

Modern brand new malls provide for “super shopping” experiences. Medellin is THE fashion center for Latin America. Colombiamoda is a stop on the European and American fashion circuit in July.

First-rate inexpensive out of pocket medical care is available in Medellin. An ophthalmologist treated my scratched cornea in her modern office-building clinic. The visit included a complete workup, glaucoma screening, prescription for new glasses, vascularization check, eye drops and antibiotic drops, and a follow up visit for forty US Dollars. I made the appointment about thirty minutes before the visit. She spoke perfect English and since I was in pain she pushed me to the head of the line.

You can find low prices everywhere. Five star luxury hotels range from $59 to $150 per night. Private rooms, very well appointed and safe in homes with private bath, begin at $20 per night. And no car is necessary. Metered cabs are plentiful and easy to hail on the street or available by phone. The Metro and buses and walking everywhere make getting around a breeze. No payments for gas, insurance and parking. It’s hassle-free transportation.

Exploring Colombia’s colonial past, scenic greatness, natural and human diversity, ecology, coffee regions, rivers, mountains and forests are all possible within short excursions outside of Medellin. Also because of its northern most position in South America a flight back to the States is fairly short. A flight from Medellin to Miami is only a few minutes longer than a flight from NY to Miami.

Medellin is a beautiful city, well-maintained and the people are proud of their many recent successes. Come visit. You do not need any sort of visa to visit Colombia as a US, Canadian or EU citizen. Your passport is good for up to 90 days. See if it’s right for you. The city of eternal spring will welcome you and as they say, the only danger is that you will want to stay.