FAQs

Question

Is Medellín safe?

Answer

So far, we've heard nothing but great things! We have spoken to many people: Some that have lived in Medellín, others who have family that currently live in Medellín, and many who have travelled to Medellín, and they've all expressed how safe they've felt and how much they love it there. It's a top touristy city in Colombia, and we would be staying in one of the nicest areas, El Poblado. Additionally, we have some incredible wedding planners who are extremely familiar with the city and will be guiding us every step of the way to ensure a fun and safe trip!

Question

What should I budget for?

Answer

All of these are based on approximations: Flights: $150-$200 round trip from MIA or FLL Hotel stay: $60-$100 per night Food/Beverage: $10-30 per day with a meal costing around $5 on the low end and as much as $10 per plate at a nice restaurant. Food/beverage will be provided by us some parts of the weekend. Transportation: How much does an Uber cost? Component Cost Base Fare $2.50 Booking Fee $0.55 Per-minute $0.40 Per KM $1.45 Taxis: Please refer to this website for taxi fare estimates: https://medellinguru.com/taxi-guide/?__cf_chl_rt_tk=zMOt8ooXr81d5udgVFu8tVAYKN.Im.RNK6wUY9Lg0ZY-1636739753-0-gaNycGzNCL0 For a point of reference, 80,000 Colombian pesos are approx. $20 USD, which is an estimated ride cost from the hotel to the airport (16 miles). Activities: We want everyone to enjoy their trip comfortably. Tours/activities would be additional if you're interested in joining, but there is no obligation! Costs can be found under each activity listed in the "Schedule" tab.

Question

Do you have any hotel recommendations?

Answer

We are staying at Novotel El Tesoro at a great group rate, however, please feel free to stay wherever you’d like.

Question

What time should I arrive at the ceremony?

Answer

Please arrive no later than 3:30PM. The bride will be walking in, and the ceremony starts at 4PM sharp on Friday, May 13. Shuttle buses will be leaving around 3-3:10PM from Novotel El Tesoro.

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Yes! The dress code is Formal/Semi-Formal. Suits or tuxes as well as gowns or cocktail dresses are welcome.

Question

How can we plan for AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION?

Answer

Here are some options for airport transportation: - Scheduling an airport pick-up/hotel drop-off via Gema Tours (this is the company we are using to provide you with transportation to/from the wedding); Contact info: WhatsApp +57 317 6486347 Pricing: 1-3 people - $25.22 4-6 people - $46.67 7-12 people - $58.02 12-16 people - $75.67 - Uber (price estimates listed under "What Should I Budget For?" FAQ) - Hiring a private driver

Question

Are you taking care of WEDDING TRANSPORTATION?

Answer

We will have shuttle busses from the hotel which we (and majority of guests) are staying at (either York Luxury Suites or Novotel) to the wedding ceremony at Parróquia La Purísima Concepción and then from there (the church) to the cocktail + reception at Forest Campestre. We will also be offering transportation from the reception back to the hotel. We are hoping to provide guests with two options to leave the party: 10PM & 12AM.

Question

What will the weather be like?

Answer

Weather in May in Medellín High 81° / Low 64° May also falls within the rainy season.

Question

Distances: How far is the hotel from the airport? How far is the hotel from the ceremony?

Answer

Airport to hotel (Novotel): 23 km (14 miles) which is approx. 32 min. from the airport by car Hotel to ceremony (La Purísima Concepción Envigado): 6.1 km (4 miles) which is approx. 10 min. from the hotel by shuttle Ceremony to reception (Forest Casa Campestre): 6.9 km (4.2 miles) which is approx. 13 min. from the church by shuttle

Question

How long will Bryan and Krystal be staying for?

Answer

We are arriving to Medellín on Wednesday, May 11th and staying until Sunday, May 15th. Then we’re off to Cartagena to enjoy a few days there! This is not a honeymoon so you are welcome to join us, however, everyone's pretty much setting up their own itineraries there.

Question

Do I need a passport?

Answer

YES. Please have passports up to date! Expiration date CANNOT BE WITHIN 6 MONTHS of your travels (but please check on that information on your own). Citizens of ALL countries: To enter Colombia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after your travel dates. For example, if you are traveling to Colombia in March, your passport must be valid through September of that year.

Question

Do I need to be vaccinated for COVID to attend the wedding or to go to Colombia?

Answer

As of December 14, 2021, the Colombian government has implemented a new policy that requires all incoming travelers to provide proof of their complete series of COVID vaccinations. Vaccination cards are required. Photos will not be accepted. Find the information here: https://co.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ We are so sorry if this changes anything for some of you. Although we are sad that this new obligation may keep us from celebrating with everyone, at no point do we want anyone to feel obligated to do anything they are uncomfortable with, and we understand and respect any decision or stance you have regarding getting vaccinated. We will try to continue to stay attentive to any changes regarding this policy in the near future and update you as soon as we find out. If you need any help cancelling anything that has already been booked, please let us know. We would love to help and would hate for this to be a huge burden.

Question

Is COVID testing required to reenter the United States?

Answer

Yes. Per our understanding, testing is offered at the hotel and results are provided quickly so that you can return home without a problem!

Question

Do I have to stay at the hotel you select?

Answer

Not at all. Feel free to shop around, and go with your preference, Majority will likely be staying at the hotel we choose, but there are some friends/family staying at other hotels/AirBnBs. We will be providing transportation for the wedding ceremony and reception from our hotel, though, and the hotel we'll be at will influence the site for provided COVID testing, possible activities, etc.

Question

Anything related to Pablo Escobar?

Answer

Please DO NOT bring up the Escobar topic. Medellin has long since moved past that terrible period of time and made strides to install peace. Most locals find this extremely distasteful and rude to discuss.