FAQs
Question
What's the weather / what should I (and should not) pack?
Answer
Medellín is known as the “Land of Eternal Spring,” with comfortable temperatures year-round, typically around 70–80°F during the day and slightly cooler in the evenings. Expect mild, spring-like weather, although it does rain in the afternoon, almost daily. Typically, rain lasts 1-2 hours at most. We recommend packing light, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, a light jacket for evenings. What NOT to pack: We recommend not bringing expensive jewelry, designer items, or anything that may draw unnecessary attention. Keeping things simple and understated will help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience while traveling around the city.
Question
Will the wedding be inside or outside?
Answer
The ceremony will be outside (pray for us for NO rain at this hour) and the reception will be inside. See 'Itinerary' tab for wedding attire details.
Question
Are kids invited?
Answer
We hope you know how much your children mean to us! We kindly ask this event be adults only.
Question
Am I going to spend half my vacation on an airplane?
Answer
Surprisingly, no! The flight is roughly 7.5/8 hours from the west coast. Most people think Colombia is a lot further than it is. It is around 3 hours from guests on the east coast.
Question
How far is the hotel from the airport and how am I getting there?
Answer
You're on your own! Kidding. The ride is around 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Yes, there's traffic, ugh. Many people may be on the same flight as you. Please reach out to Nikki or Edwin with your plans, and we will secure a ride for you. A family member of Edwin's owns a taxi company, so a large, white van (relaxxxxx) will come pick you up.
Question
Can I use my credit card there, or do I absolutely need cash?
Answer
Yes! A lot of restaurants take credit card with no issue, although we do advise notifying your bank prior to the trip. We also recommend visiting an ATM to get some pesos as well, since many street vendors (and taxis) only accept cash. You can do this when you arrive.
Question
What is the best way to get my dollars (USD) converted to Colombian pesos (COP)?
Answer
There are ATMs in the city, where you can pull out cash any time. We don't suggest pulling out a lot at once. An example: we typically pull out 300,000 COP when we get there, which is around $80 USD. Most likely, this will last you the entire weekend. (WILD, RIGHT?!)
Question
Do I need to rent a car?
Answer
Heck no! Think of Medellin a bit like New York City. Taxis are easily assessable and can be caught very easily. They will take you anywhere and each ride is between $3-$15, based on the length of course. Also, feel free to download their 'uber' app, known as 'DiDi'. This is also a highly recommended way to get around (and it's in English, which helps).
Question
Does anyone speak English in this country?
Answer
Short answer - very few. Some will try, BUT we will tell you - this does NOT stop these people from communicating with Americans. They absolutely LOVE that you are there and will feel the need to tell you their entire life story, the moment you meet them. Colombians are extremely passionate, friendly and welcoming. You will notice this very quickly; we feel it is one of the main reasons that makes this place is so special.
Question
Is this trip going to break my bank?
Answer
Short answer: Absolutely not! Our goal is to keep costs for our guests as low as possible. For those that don't know, the US Dollar (USD) is roughly 4 times the currency of a Colombian Peso (COP). If you don't like math or in other words - our USD (almost) quadruples when we land. Welcome to the high life for a few days, Queen (or King)! Some examples - grab a coffee for $.67, or a breakfast sandwich for $1.50. An uber/didi ride is around $3ish, since most rides are short and everything is close together.
Question
Is Medellin a safe city to travel to?
Answer
You may be asking this because you've seen Narcos. 1. We LOVE that you have seen that show! Pretty wild, huh... and 2. The good news, Medellin is currently one of the SAFEST and most incredible cities throughout the world (ok fine, biased opinion). In all seriousness, we know you'll LOVE it. We would always recommend being smart/cautious (as always when traveling to any other country) and leave your valuables at home. Colombians are extremely alert, so why draw attention when, not necessary. All that to say, the city is very safe and again, has a NY city feel to it.
Question
Any little tips/tricks to get on a Colombian's good side?
Answer
DO. NOT. SLAM. THE. TAXIS'. DOOR. We will say it louder for people in the back! It is something Nikki learned the hard way when she first visited, just ask her about it lol.
Question
What are the main things I need to know before visiting?
Answer
- You'll eat a lot, but you'll walk a lot. - You CAN drink the water, although we got in the habit of always drinking bottled water when we're at a restaurant. - There is no such thing as 'tipping', pretty cool although they know Americans typically do. - Download the Currency+ app, to help with money conversion. - BEWARE of Colombian drivers!! If you think LA is bad... we are nothin. We are convinced; they don't have lanes out there. - Also, cars don't exactly stop for pedestrians like they do here, sooooo - WATCH where you walk at ALL times. - Everything is unusually small - such as chairs, taxis, restrooms, elevators. So tall people, good luck! - Colombians also LOVE to party, so get ready for a wedding and vacation, you'll (hopefully) never forget!