Medellin for digital nomads in a nutshell
Medellin is oftentimes referred to as a paradise for digital nomads in South America. We remained in Medellin for a bit more than four weeks and truly enjoyed our stay while working remotely in this lively, verdant city!
Medellin offers the ideal balance of business and leisure – it has a solid setup for virtual professionals while never failing to provide plenty of adventures and activities off the clock.
Living expenses in this area are relatively inexpensive, thus making it an ideal spot for digital nomads who want to have a good time without having to break the bank.
We felt secure during the entire period we were living and working remotely in Medellin. We absolutely have no qualms in suggesting Medellin as an ideal spot for digital nomads, as long as one is careful and takes regular protective measures.
One of the only downsides to Medellin being a hub for digital nomads is that the digital nomad community there is not very active.
Despite its reputation as one of the best places for digital nomads to live in South America, we encountered more difficulty connecting with other digital nomads compared to other destination spots. However…
1. We felt safe as digital nomads in Medellin
It is widely known that Medellin has a history of tumult and fear. Back in the 1990s, it was seen as the most hazardous location on the planet.
It is astonishing to see how much the city has changed in a span of only three decades due to the implementation of political reforms, educational initiatives, and urban development plans.
Medellin didn’t feel unsafer than any other city
We got the word that we should be wary of thieves, particularly when visiting crowded areas downtown Medellin. The people who live in the area know to be aware of pickpockets and even rank their watchfulness on a scale of 1 to 5, which they call Papaya level.
We were always cautious with our luggage and thankfully, we never had any issues.
Generally, we felt completely secure in Medellin at all times. We felt secure wandering around Poblado, Laureles, and other parts of Medellín during daylight and nighttime. We always made certain to stay in areas with plenty of people and never linger in dim and isolated alleyways.
We relied on Cabify to travel longer distances and we always encountered warm and dependable drivers.
What is the situation with drugs in Medellin?
It has been reported that Medellin still has a large amount of drugs present. Well, let’s put this statement into perspective.
It is unquestionable that Colombia remains the primary manufacturer of cocaine. Glancing over the world, Colombia doesn’t appear on the roster of the 20 most prolific countries for drug consumption.
Locals don’t use cocaine. It’s produced for international export.
No matter where you go, sooner rather than later you will hear the question “Do you have any Cocaine?” Street vendors are targeting travelers because they’re usually the ones making purchases of marijuana.
2. You get good value for money as digital nomad in Medellin
The amount spent on living in a certain place can vary depending on one’s individual economic situation. Some may find a specific place to be expensive, while for others it may be relatively inexpensive. Additionally, a large part of your expenses will be dependent on your customary level of living.
- Do you like eating out every day?
- Are you going for fancy coffee and beers every day?
- How comfortable do you like to stay?
This kind of stuff.
3. Internet and wifi is always in Medellin
Medellin has an excellent internet network, ensuring reliable high speed wifi that allows you to work on your projects at any time and place.
Working from home in Medellin
The majority of lodgings on Airbnb come with high-speed web access. Medellin has a large influx of expats and retirees. Thus, the housing infrastructure is providing the global community with the necessary comfort and connection it requires.
Best cafes for digital nomads in Medellin
If you’re in Medellin and enjoy varying the sights and sounds of your work space, while being catered to with coffee that is boasted as the best in the world, there are dozens of incredible coffee shops to choose from!
In the areas of Poblado and Laureles, it’s very easy to find trendy and fashionable cafés with WiFi and internet enabled laptops, since many digital nomads use them.
4. We hoped to meet more digital nomads in Medellin
We felt enthusiastic when we arrived in Medellin, anticipating meeting digital nomads from a wide variety of countries and establishing both new business contacts and acquaintances.
Sadly, we had a hard time getting connected to the digital nomad group in Medellin.
A large number of foreigners who are in the city for an extended period of time (often senior citizens from the United States) and individuals who relocated to Medellin without setting a return date. We truly joined forces with a multitude of people from all around the world at a gathering put together by Medellin Guru for expatriates living in Medellin. Additionally, you can socialize with a number of global digital nomads during a complimentary salsa lesson at Dancefree.
5. Poblado is not as touristy as many say
Prior to reserving a flat for our time in Medellin, we conducted a thorough investigation into the topspots to reside in Medellin for sightseers and digital nomads. Our most important criteria were safety and fun factor.
Taking into account what different weblogs had suggested, we chose to stay in the Poblado region in the Provenza district. Reflecting on our decision, we would have counseled you to do the same, as we were very content with our selection.
6. You’ll never get bored in Medellin as digital nomad
There is an abundance of activities to enjoy in Medellin, as the city is quite sizeable. Spend your free time exploring all that it has to offer!
Medellin isn’t somewhere that’s visited to simply see the attractions; taking part in the ambiance, discovering the engrossing culture and past, sipping the coffee, sampling different eateries, hunting down markets and attending events are what makes a trip to Medellin enjoyable.
People are friendly and talkative. This metropolis is incredibly spirited, guaranteeing you never experience a dull moment. We had so many activities that we wanted to do that we started to feel rushed to finish them near the end of our visit.
What Makes A Good Coworking Space For Digital Nomads in Medellin?
These are the top three coworking spots in Medellin, and we have provided detailed information concerning the experience of working there.
Ready? Let’s go!
1. Semilla Cafe Coworking (Laureles)
Semilla Cafe Coworking is exactly as the name suggests. A cafe can be found on the ground floor, in conjunction with a workspace situated on the top floor. Semilla Cafe Coworking is an ideal spot for people who operate remotely, those who wish to work independently and business owners to generate ideas, cooperate and finish projects.
They are the leading coworking space in the neighborhood of Laureles and have a big building offering:
- cafe with a drink and food menu
- dedicated coworking space
- shared kitchen space
- private office space
- meetup events
We were aware of Semilla prior to arriving in Medellin, so we stopped by on our initial morning.
What To Expect Working From Semilla Cafe Coworking
Envision a working environment made up of wooden hues and lush vegetation with internet connection that runs rapidly and a dynamic atmosphere.
…That’s Semilla Cafe Coworking for you!
They have done an excellent job of creating an energizing atmosphere in their cafe and coworking area. The tranquil greens, whites, and beiges recall why having a drab workspace is no longer an option.
The cafe below is absolutely buzzing! Laureles’ most famed café and coworking spot is widely known and used. Semilla is a popular destination for digital nomads, telecommuters, and locals who want to work.
The coworking area can only be reached by members and it is located on the second floor of the establishment. They have done a superb job of distinguishing the cafe and coworking places, so that you can feel that you are truly acquiring your worth for the funds as a member.
As an illustration, the internet speed of the cafe is about 20 Mbps and the coworking space has a much faster connection of 80 Mbps or higher. One of the major contrasts between toiling in a cafe and occupying a coworking area is quite notable.
Features & Amenities At Semilla Cafe Coworking
Wondering what’s included in your membership? As a member of Semilla Coworking, you will have access to the following amenities and services.
ERGONOMIC CHAIRS & SPACIOUS DESKS
Tired of working from uncomfortable wooden chairs? Us too!
No matter if the seating arrangement you get at your Airbnb is not ideal or the cafe’s chairs don’t offer the comfort you need to handle a long working day, you must remember to take care of your back and posture to have a better working experience.
CAFE & RESTAURANT ON-SITE
As a part of the shared workspace, you can still benefit from all the amenities the cafe has to offer. The best part? They will deliver the item right to your workplace and you don’t have to do anything. You can order anything from:
- burgers
- salads
- acai bowls
- pastries
- hot/iced coffee
- and so much more…
2. Open Space (Poblado)
Open Space is a workspace designed to foster creativity, situated in Poblado, otherwise referred to as the premier neighbourhood in Manila. This area was created for people who work remotely, such as digital nomads, innovators, and remote employees, and are looking for an atmosphere that stimulates their creativity and encourages collaboration.
What does Open Space offer? Here are some of the things you can expect:
- spacious desks and chairs
- natural light-filled space
- friendly staff
- cafe with some pastry options
- 2 levels of space
Open Space is not the typical shared workspace, and the way in which things are done is a bit dissimilar. There is no long-term option for payment, only a single day pass, yet it is reasonably priced in comparison to a monthly membership.
Open Space in Medellin has become an in-demand spot for digital nomads and remote professionals since its inception, making it one of the city’s leading coworking locations.
What To Expect Working From Open Space
When exploring the Manila neighbourhood, Open Space is hard to overlook. The colossal, audacious, and gorgeous azure warehouse sits on a tranquil avenue. Upon entering, it is evident that a lot of effort was put into transforming the space to cater to a variety of requirements.
Open Space offered the most rapid internet speed we encountered at any coworking place in Medellin. We consistently had download rates that were over 220 Mbps – correct, you read that correctly! 220 Mbps is incredibly quick for any kind of task that you need to accomplish.
Features & Amenities At Open Space
What does a day pass at Open Space include? Here is our most comprehensive description of the characteristics and services available at this shared workspace in Medellin.
ERGONOMIC CHAIRS & SPACIOUS DESKS
You have a range of options for where to take a seat; it’s a kind of shared workspace setup. Choose any seat you want – there are two levels. We opted for the less expensive single-day pass for the first floor, which was more crowded than the others, but we really liked it! Those that fork out a bit more money get the privilege to use the 2nd floor exclusively.
The chairs made of wood at Open Space are surprisingly enjoyable to sit in, even when dealing with tasks that take up to 4 or more hours of work. These wooden chairs are solid and not weak, which is of great assistance! If you want to buy the most comfortable ergonomic chairs, you can get them on the 2nd floor for an extra 5,000 Colombian Pesos, equivalent to 1.27 US Dollars.
CAFE & RESTAURANT ON-SITE
At the entrance, you can get Colombian-style coffee, tea, and fizzy drinks like passionfruit soda (my favorite one!). Unfortunately, there weren’t any food items on the menu. We heard they intended to put it in place eventually.
3. Quokka Coworking (Poblado)
Check out Quokka Coworking if you’re looking for a coworking space in Medellin! This office space is situated in the Poblado area on a tranquil street, not far from the renowned Masaya Hostel.
Quokka Coworking has been in existence for an extended period of time and has become an essential part of the digital nomad populace. We wanted to find out for ourselves and experience it for ourselves!
Features & Amenities At Quokka Coworking
This place is a go-to for digital nomads and many people that work from home in the area. It is well-liked by many. This is a place that has both indoor and outdoor areas with lots of foliage to make the atmosphere feel less like a conventional workspace. Ergonomic chairs provide a pleasant environment for extended work periods, and a variety of spacious desks are available.
Quokka Coworking has an attractive garden area if you are in need of a change of scenery while working or just to take a break. The buildings are up to date and cutting-edge – they include a Skype room, tranquil area and quiet spaces for when you need to concentrate without hearing other people’s conversations.
The personnel are incredibly hospitable and willing to assist you in any way they can. Members can get complimentary tea/coffee, their own lockers, and a common kitchen area with microwave access.
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