Medellin, Colombia has experienced a significant transformation in recent years. Previously notorious for its rough reputation, the city has become a popular destination for digital nomads and travelers seeking an affordable place to visit. To attract more responsible visitors and remote workers, Medellin is now implementing new regulations.
Mayor Federico Gutiérrez is shifting the tourism focus away from bachelor parties and all-night revelry, aiming to attract visitors interested in cultural experiences and professional digital nomads.
Over 1.4 million visitors arrived in Medellin last year, with many being Americans.
To address bad behavior, Medellin and Colombian immigration are taking several measures to make it clear that unruly tourists are not welcome.
El Poblado, known for its nightlife, is packed with nightclubs and places to unwind. In Calle 10, home to the infamous Lleras Park, visitors will
encounter numerous police officers, security cameras, and checkpoints leading to popular party spots.
Mayor Federico Gutiérrez even imposed a temporary 1:00 AM curfew on bars to
control the partying. Although the curfew has been lifted, the message remains clear. “We have to recover
control of this area — it is also very important for us to protect the community,” Gutiérrez stated.
Security is tight across hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants. The mayor has banned
all prostitution in popular tourist areas. Large billboards warn tourists about
sexual tourism and the exploitation of minors, highlighting the potential 25-
year prison sentence. Signs are posted in all hotels, and guests are strictly checked for identification.
Medellin, Colombia is currently not the ideal destination to seek romance. Earlier this year, the U.S.
government warned that travelers are being targeted on dating apps, then drugged and robbed.
Even when launching Tinder in Medellin, users receive a caution that
meeting people can be dangerous due to recent government alerts. This warning
extends to nightclubs and bars, where unsuspecting tourists are being drugged with Scopolamine.
Times have changed, and message boards on Facebook and Reddit are now
filled with questions about the additional paperwork required, which is often difficult to obtain. The Colombian
government has the authority to request any extra information they deem necessary when reviewing applicants,
and they are now doing so for almost everyone. The new required forms include:
– Criminal FBI background checks with an Apostille
– Official proof of good standing for self-owned companies with an Apostille
– Official proof of ownership for digital nomads who operate their own companies with an Apostille
All forms must be dated and issued within the past 60 days.
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