Medellin Centro at NightMedellin centro at night can be a lot of fun but watch your wallet and use common sense. Parque Lleras is the hub of nightlife and bars in the city, but I urge you to venture further to experience other gems that are in many ways far more charming and "real". One such place is: EL ESLABÓN PRENDIDO (La Papeyera) 
La Papayera is the official name of the bar, but we're cooler than that, so let's call it, “El eslabón prendido” (The missing link). Truly, one of the greatest bars in Medellin. This came about during a party of the owners and friends and is pretty much what the place goes by, so there you go. Everybody says that the Eslabón is the place downtown, right off the Parque del Periodista (Journalist Park), where as soon as you enter, you will feel like dancing. I can really vouch for this, even a Norwegian like me, at this place, sooner or later actually believes he's got got rhythm. Really though, for a moment or two, I think I actually did... Salsa, Son Cubano and Timba are the rhythms that make the crowd move; up to 150 on weekends as they shout, “Rumba!” (Party!) This party atmosphere really is very contagious in this place that is frequented by the owner Jhon Jaramillo, his friends, regulars and of course, general public. On Tuesdays they play live Latin Jazz. Musicians, instruments and adrenaline mesh to form a creative collective. This old house with high ceilings extends as a long corrridoor to a samll open air courtyard in the back, good for hanging out with friends, enjoying an open air tropical dance, drink or a coctail. For 7000 pesos (US$ 3), you can enjoy a Mojito that is the speciality of the bar. Alone or with friends, dancing or watching, this place is guaranteed fun! Parque del Periodista (Journalist Park)Has a number of other bars and is right next to the Eslabon. It's a great place to hang out, have a few beers and chat before going dancing.The area is not up-market or anything like that but has a bit of a younger student-feel with a touch of the Bohemian, meaning that it attracts a different crowd than Parque Lleras, which is more about being seen and a bit flash. My best dance night ever in Medellin was at the Eslabon, not Blue or Mangos. It's much more down to earth. SafetyAs a word of advice, Medellin centro at night can be fun but also potentially dangerous. Be careful and stick to crowded areas. Don't flash money around or become a mugging statistic. Around the Parque del Periodista you'll be fine but just don't wonder off randomly unless you know what you're doing.Return from Medellin Centro at Night to Medellin Colombia Return from Medellin Centro at Night to Colombia Travel Guide New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. |
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