While Cartagena has been popular with tourists for decades, the city of Medellín was a no-go area until only around 2010 or so for most people. Now this city is thriving and bringing in international tourists as well as expats who come for the affordable prices and pleasant year-round weather.
Being near the equator and at a mountain elevation, Medellín has a climate that is unspectacular on any given day but amazing because it’s basically the same all year. This famous spring-like weather is a big draw here, so this city is now home to an increasing number of international people and short-term visitors.
Prices of hotels and restaurants are very appealing by international standards, and quality can be surprisingly good as well. This is out of the way of anyone who isn’t specifically touring the interior of South America, and a great stop for anyone exploring the region.