Discover the Best of Barranquilla
Summary: Discover the charm of Barranquilla with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.
Welcome to Barranquilla! If you're planning to move to Barranquilla, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Barranquilla has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Barranquilla.
Barranquilla, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a plethora of attractions for both tourists and locals. One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Cathedral of Barranquilla, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. The Museo del Caribe is another must-visit site, offering a comprehensive overview of the Caribbean region's history and culture. For art enthusiasts, the Museo de Arte Moderno de Barranquilla houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
The city is also known for its annual Carnaval de Barranquilla, one of the biggest carnivals in the world. The event is a riot of color, music, and dance, with parades, concerts, and street parties taking place throughout the city. The Casa del Carnaval is a museum dedicated to this event, showcasing the history and traditions of the carnival.
Barranquilla's Zoo is another popular attraction, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including many native to South America. The city also boasts beautiful parks such as the Parque Tomás Suri Salcedo, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Barranquilla is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Varadero offers delicious Caribbean cuisine in a charming, rustic setting. For a taste of local flavors, La Cueva is a must-visit. This restaurant is famous for its traditional Colombian dishes and its association with the Barranquilla Group, a famous literary and artistic group.
For a more upscale dining experience, head to Chef Julian, known for its innovative fusion cuisine and stylish decor. If you're in the mood for seafood, Restaurante La Casona is renowned for its fresh, flavorful dishes.
When it comes to nightlife, Barranquilla has something for everyone. Frogg Leggs is a popular bar with a lively atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. For those who love to dance, Trucupey Latin Disco is the place to be, offering a mix of salsa, merengue, and other Latin rhythms. La Troja, a traditional salsa bar, is another favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Recreational activities in Barranquilla are diverse, catering to a wide range of interests. For sports enthusiasts, the Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez is the city's main football stadium and a great place to catch a game. The city also has several golf courses, including the Country Club de Barranquilla and the Club Lagos de Caujaral.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, the Bocas de Ceniza is a unique natural attraction where the Magdalena River meets the Caribbean Sea. It's a popular spot for fishing and bird watching. The Gran Malecón Puerta de Oro is a riverside park offering walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, and stunning views of the river.
Shopping is another popular pastime in Barranquilla. The city boasts several shopping centers, such as the Centro Comercial Buenavista and the Centro Comercial Villa Country, offering a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Barranquilla: Making the Most of Life and Connections
"Expats in Barranquilla often join various clubs and activities to meet new people and immerse themselves in the local culture. Many expats join language exchange clubs, where they can practice their Spanish skills with locals and other expats. These clubs often organize social events and outings, providing a great opportunity to make new friends.Sports clubs are also popular among expats, with soccer, salsa dancing, and yoga being particularly popular. Joining a sports club not only helps expats stay active, but also allows them to connect with locals who share similar interests.Cultural activities, such as cooking classes, art workshops, and music festivals, are also popular among expats. These activities provide a great opportunity to learn about Colombian culture and meet locals.Expats also often volunteer in local community projects, which is a great way to give back to the community and meet like-minded individuals. There are numerous volunteer opportunities available in Barranquilla, ranging from teaching English to helping out at local charities.In addition to joining clubs and activities, expats often meet people through their work or school. Many expats work as English teachers or in the tourism industry, which provides plenty of opportunities to meet locals and other expats. Similarly, those who are studying in Barranquilla will likely meet people through their classes and campus events.Finally, many expats meet people simply by exploring the city and striking up conversations with locals. Colombians are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so don't be shy about introducing yourself to your neighbors or the people you meet in cafes and markets," said one expat living in Barranquilla.
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We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Barranquilla is vibrant and culturally rich. The city is known for its friendly locals, who are always willing to help newcomers settle in. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to work remotely. The city offers a variety of coworking spaces and cafes with reliable internet, making it easy for digital nomads to work.Barranquilla is also known for its lively festivals, particularly the Carnival of Barranquilla, which is one of the biggest carnivals in the world. This provides a great opportunity for expats to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions. The city also has a thriving nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.Despite being a bustling city, Barranquilla also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation. There are several beautiful beaches nearby, and the city itself is home to numerous parks and green spaces. The local cuisine is another highlight, with a wide variety of delicious dishes to try.While Spanish is the main language spoken in Barranquilla, many locals and most young people speak English, making it easier for expats and digital nomads to communicate. The city also has a good public transportation system, making it easy to get around.However, like any city, Barranquilla also has its challenges. The hot and humid climate can take some getting used to, and the city can be quite noisy. Safety can also be a concern, particularly in certain areas, so it's important for expats and digital nomads to take precautions and stay informed about which neighborhoods to avoid.Overall, life for expats and digital nomads in Barranquilla offers a unique blend of work and play, providing plenty of opportunities to experience the local culture while also maintaining a productive work routine," commented an expat living in Barranquilla.
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We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Retire in Barranquilla Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Barranquilla
- Pros & Cons of Living in Barranquilla
- Tips for Expats Driving in Barranquilla
- Discover the Best of Barranquilla
- Health Care in Barranquilla
- Cost of Living in Barranquilla
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Colombia
- Best Places to Live in Colombia
- Real Estate in Colombia
- 12 Things to Know Before Moving to Colombia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Colombia 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Colombia