Itinerary

Colombia is a vibrant country with a rich culture, and both Medellín and Cali have so much to offer. Here’s a friendly and business-savvy 7-day itinerary that balances work and leisure perfectly. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Medellín

Morning:

• Arrive in Medellín and check into your hotel. I recommend staying in El Poblado for its business-friendly amenities and vibrant atmosphere.
• Grab a coffee at a local café to recharge after your journey. Café Pergamino is a great spot!

Afternoon:

• Schedule a business meeting at a co-working space like Selina or WeWork. These places are not only professional but also have a lively vibe.
• Lunch at Carmen, a fantastic restaurant that offers a mix of Colombian and international cuisine.

Evening:

• Take a stroll through Parque Lleras to unwind. It’s a great place to network with locals and expats.
• Dinner at El Cielo, where you can enjoy a unique dining experience that combines gastronomy and art.

## Day 2: Exploring Medellín

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the Comuna 13. Take a guided tour to learn about its transformation and vibrant street art.
• Have breakfast at Hato Viejo, known for its traditional Colombian dishes.

Afternoon:

• Head to Plaza Botero to see Fernando Botero’s famous sculptures. It’s a great spot for casual meetings or just soaking in the culture.
• Lunch at La Pampa, a great steakhouse nearby.

Evening:

• Attend a networking event or business meetup. Check platforms like Meetup or Eventbrite for local events.
• Dinner at Oci.Mde, known for its innovative dishes and great ambiance.

## Day 3: Business and Culture

Morning:

• Schedule a morning meeting at Ruta N, a center for innovation and business in Medellín.
• Enjoy breakfast at Alambique, a cozy spot with a great atmosphere.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Museum of Antioquia to appreciate local art and history.
• Lunch at Mondongos, famous for its traditional Colombian soup.

Evening:

• Take the Metrocable to Parque Arví for stunning views and a bit of nature.
• Dinner at La Pampa, where you can enjoy a relaxed meal and discuss business in a casual setting.

## Day 4: Travel to Cali

Morning:

• Fly to Cali (about an hour). Check into your hotel in the Granada neighborhood, known for its business-friendly environment.
• Grab breakfast at Café La Palma.

Afternoon:

• Schedule a meeting at a local co-working space like Cali Coworking.
• Lunch at Platillos Voladores, a great spot for a business lunch.

Evening:

• Explore the San Antonio neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe and beautiful views.
• Dinner at El Zaguán, where you can enjoy traditional Cali cuisine.

## Day 5: Discovering Cali

Morning:

• Start your day with a salsa dancing class! It’s a fun way to engage with the local culture and meet new people.
• Breakfast at Café La Tertulia.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Cali Zoo or the Cristo Rey statue for some sightseeing.
• Lunch at La Guacharaca, known for its local dishes.

Evening:

• Attend a salsa show or a local event. Check out Zaperoco for live music and dancing.
• Dinner at Sabor a Mar, a seafood restaurant with a great atmosphere.

## Day 6: Business and Networking

Morning:

• Schedule a meeting with local business contacts or attend a workshop at Cali Chamber of Commerce.
• Breakfast at Café del Parque.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Museo de la Salsa to learn about Cali’s rich salsa history.
• Lunch at El Buen Gusto, a local favorite.

Evening:

• Enjoy a casual dinner at La Casona, where you can relax and reflect on your trip.
• If you’re up for it, check out a local salsa club for some late-night dancing!

## Day 7: Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
• Take a final stroll through the city, perhaps visiting any last-minute spots you missed.

Afternoon:

• Depending on your flight time, you might squeeze in a quick meeting or networking lunch.
• Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Always have a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device for easy communication.
• Use ride-sharing apps like Beat or Uber for convenient transportation.
• Embrace the local culture, and don’t hesitate to try new foods and experiences!

I hope this itinerary helps you balance business and pleasure while exploring the beautiful cities of Medellín and Cali! Enjoy your trip! 🌎✈️