They say that Medellín is the city of eternal spring and that is exactly how it feels, because of its tropical climate, its happy people and the colorful flowers that bloom on every corner. The unique flora is also what I like most about this beautiful place. The vegetation makes you feel like you are in a city in the heart of a jungle.

What also fascinates me about Medellín is the entrepreneurship of its residents. They, the so-called paísas, are very work-orientated, always positive and it seems as if everyone runs a small business to secure their livelihood selling chewing gums, avocados, mangoes, prepared sandwiches and portioned fruits. People work extremely hard for their money, including the tailors who manufacture the straps of our Wayuu Crossbody Bags with finest craftsmanship.On one of my several trips to Medellín, I met a woman from Pereira, a town about 200 km south of Medellín. Whenever I visit today, she takes on the long journey to personally sell her handwoven straps to me. These are not only beautifully crafted and of very high quality, but can also be seen as belonging to the rich cultural heritage of Colombia.

Even if not all the city’s neighborhoods are completely safe and the violence should not be underestimated, there are quarters that have a lot to offer in terms of cuisine and culture. El Poblado or Provencia is one of those barrios that I like most. It is full of cafes, bars, small shops and pretty restaurants.

The green splendor of plants decorates also here the whole neighborhood. Mango trees, orange and lime bushes and thousands of other exotic plants and fruits grow in its residents' gardens.

Medellín has countless tours and day trips to offer, such as a trip to El Peñol, the Zona Cafetera, Colombia's largest coffee-growing region, or a graffiti tour through the Comuna 13. Medellín is undoubtedly a hidden gem and definitely worth a trip.

 ♥ Karina