Laureles: The Vibrant Heart of Medellín

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/de nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón
  [pair-dohn]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh/ah]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
  [eh-soh ehs moo-ee kahr-oh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-har ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una en punto
  [ehs lah oo-nah ehn poon-toh]
• Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs d'yehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl prohk-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

Laureles was founded in the early 20th century as part of Medellín's expansion beyond its traditional urban center. It was designed with wide avenues and green spaces, reflecting the influence of urban planning trends of the time. The name 'Laureles' comes from the laurel trees that adorned the area, symbolizing peace and prosperity.

During the mid-20th century, Laureles emerged as a cultural hub, attracting artists, intellectuals, and the middle class. The construction of theaters, cafes, and cultural centers contributed to its reputation as a vibrant neighborhood. Notable institutions like the Teatro Metropolitano and the Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana were established, fostering an environment rich in artistic and educational endeavors.

The turbulent period of violence in Medellín during the late 20th century affected Laureles, like many other neighborhoods. Drug cartels and gang violence disrupted the community, leading to a decline in safety and quality of life. However, despite these challenges, the area remained resilient, and local initiatives emerged to reclaim public spaces and restore a sense of community.

In the 21st century, Laureles underwent a significant transformation characterized by urban renewal and gentrification. Investment in infrastructure, public transport, and commercial development attracted a new wave of residents and businesses. The neighborhood's historical architecture has been preserved, while modern amenities have been introduced, making it a desirable area for both locals and expatriates.

Laureles is now known for its thriving culinary scene, featuring a mix of traditional Colombian cuisine and international offerings. The area is home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars that reflect the neighborhood's dynamic culture. Events such as food festivals and artisan markets celebrate local traditions, further enriching Laureles' cultural tapestry.

Laureles is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Medellín. The Metro is a convenient option; take Line A to the Estadio station or Line B to the San Antonio station, both of which are a short walk to Laureles. Buses also serve the area extensively, with numerous routes connecting Laureles to Poblado, Envigado, and other neighborhoods. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available and provide a direct and comfortable way to reach your destination.

In Laureles, the Metro and buses are the primary means of public transportation. The Metro’s Line A runs along the western edge of the neighborhood, and several bus routes traverse the area, making it easy to navigate. Bicycles can be rented through local bike-sharing programs, and the neighborhood is quite walkable, with many cafés, shops, and parks located close together. For late-night travel, taxis or ride-sharing services are recommended for safety and convenience.

Laureles is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists, though vigilance is always advised. Areas near the stadium and certain parts of the surrounding neighborhoods can experience higher crime rates. It is best to avoid isolated streets after dark and to keep personal belongings secure. Always be cautious in crowded places and avoid displaying valuables, especially in transit hubs.

In case of emergency, dial 123 for police assistance or medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are available; the Hospital General de Medellín is a notable option. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and many staff members can assist in English.

Fashion: Do dress modestly and comfortably. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in churches; covering shoulders and knees is appreciated. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do savor local foods and accept invitations to share meals. Don’t refuse food or drink, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Laureles like a local, visit the neighborhood's many parks, such as Parque de los Deseos, which often hosts cultural events and outdoor movies. Explore the local cafés and bakeries for some of the best coffee and pastries in Medellín. Engage with local vendors at the street markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. Don't miss out on the vibrant nightlife in the area, particularly around La 70, where you can enjoy music, dancing, and local cuisine.