"Gratitude" doesn't even begin to cover it—I’m still buzzing from an unforgettable escape to Medellín, Colombia, where I soaked up the city’s energy while indulging in the luxury of El Cielo Hotel. Medellín is pure magic—a city that hums with color, creativity, and that famous paisa warmth. The lively streets burst with art and music this place doesn’t just welcome you—it pulls you into its rhythm.
Every morning, I woke up wrapped in luxury at El Cielo Hotel—plush beds, invigorating showers, and breathtaking city views right from my room. I kickstart the day with a brisk uphill walk to Provenza, a lush, green oasis buzzing with life. The sights, sounds, and scents make it a sensory adventure—and the perfect warm-up for the delicious escapades that awaited me.
Everywhere I turned, there were irresistible bites calling my name. I couldn’t resist stopping at nearly every corner stand for those soft, chewy pandebono, warm and bursting with melty cheese. But the true culinary magic? That came courtesy of Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos and his visionary restaurants, all within steps of my stay:
-A 21-course gastronomic journey at Elcielo Medellín
-Bold, vibrant vegan creations at Kai
-Soul-satisfying Italian classics at La Sere
-The cozy charm of his bistro right in the hotel lobby
Each meal was an experience—flavors, textures, and creativity came together in unique and inspiring ways.
Medellín’s lush beauty set the perfect backdrop for a journey through Colombian agriculture, coffee, and spirits. I wandered through the enormous chrysanthemum fields at Jardines de San Nicolás, taking in the vibrant blooms while learning about the country’s rich agricultural traditions. From there, it was on to Finca Félicité, where I sipped, swirled, and savored Colombia’s finest coffees—each tasting unlocking new depths of flavor. And, of course, no deep dive into Colombian culture would be complete without an Aguardiente education—a spirited adventure exploring the country’s signature liquor, complete with tastings to bring the experience full circle.
Exploring the vibrant sights and tastes of Medellín was made even more special by the incredible group of people I had the pleasure of sharing it all with. From feasting our way through the city’s best bites to discovering hidden gems, it was an unforgettable adventure.
Another highlight? Every night, as I returned to my room at El Cielo, I was greeted with a sweet surprise—Colombian chocolate, waiting for me to indulge in. It was the perfect end to each day, a little taste of heaven to keep the magic of Medellín lingering long after the day had ended.
