Why we should absolutely go to Colombia
When I first considered traveling to Colombia, one of my hesitations was certainly whether it would be safe for me, considering I am part of the LGBTQI community. After a quick Google search, I learned Colombia actually legalized gay marriage in 2016, and the Queer community is thriving in its big cities. In fact, Colombia was named the best emerging LGTB destination by FITUR in 2017, creating big expectations on my part. As it turns out, I worried for no apparent reason at all.
Bogota is a MUST visit
Upon arriving in Bogota, I was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the city. But you know what big cities go hand in hand with? Big adventures! Bogota happens to have the biggest gay club in Latin America, which is a testament to how open the country is to our community. The club is called Theatron and has an astounding 13 rooms to discover, all offering a vastly different experience and atmosphere. And let me emphasize, this is not exclusively a male-gay club, it is a QUEER club, where we are all welcome. There is a female-only room, they organize drag shows on a regular basis, and thank god there is an outside area where you can get some fresh air and take a breather.
Medellin has stolen my heart
Medellin is one of those cities that never ceases to amaze, and that includes the incredibly inclusive and welcoming Queer community. This is the city where I saw the Queer community out and open in the streets, without any need for fear. Where I saw a drag queen bouncing around in Parque Lleras, and two men snugly holding hands in the supermarket.
In Medellin, there is a party to be found every night and I sure found them. There is Club Industry in El Poblado, which has several floors with different vibes to make sure you have a night you’ll never forget. I know I did! While mainly visited by Queer men, everyone is welcome and the music is awesome.
Then there is Happy Medellin in Laurales, which is my favorite neighborhood in Medellin for its vibrant local vibes. This place is mainly focused on Queer women, but again, everyone is welcome. They have a Spotify playlist available, to be found on their website, to get you in the mood or just to help you remember that one special night you had in Medellin.
And then my personal favorite: Chiquita First of all, they have the absolute best logo for a Queer club I have ever seen, and their interior is at least equally Queer and beautiful. Men and women are more or less equally represented, which makes for a very open atmosphere. I returned to this magical place several times and it turns out they host many different events. Be prepared for a drag show, a karaoke night, or a night of dancing with one of their amazing DJs. And the cherry on top, they have a little gift shop to buy some unique souvenirs.
Then there is my favorite safe space
While I had a blast partying my way through Colombia, I realized it was time to take it slow and found my way to Spanish Adventures, an Immersive Spanish School in San Carlos. For them, I decided to write this blog as a shout-out to my favorite Queer Colombian safe haven where I found a true community. With some of the staff being part of the Queer community, and everyone being equally welcoming, I can not imagine a better place to have settled down for six weeks, learn Spanish, and live life to its fullest. I truly love this school for its inclusivity, and the staff for their never-ending love and support.
Spanish Adventure staff
In conclusion
While the members of our community will always have to be careful and aware, I want everyone reading this to know that Colombia is safe to travel to. Not just safe, it is life-changing. Whether you want to explore nature, make life-long connections with people, or party your ass off, I am sure you will feel welcomed in this beautiful country.