Christmas in Medellin, Colombia

The View from Kat's parents' balcony, which is located on the 18th floor of their apartment building.


The only snow in sight is that which is made inside the shopping mall.


Medellin is famous for its ostentatious light displays around Christmas. The city's largest light display is over the river in the center of town. This year's theme was the diverse ecology of Colombia. The green lights strung over the river symbolize the Andes Mountains in which Medellin is situated.

The most famous living artist in South America is Fernando Botero. Born in Medellin, he has donated many pieces of art to the city's art museum, including many large sculptures.

Medellin is the only city in Colombia with an advanced public transit system. In addition to light rail, the city has built a gondola that grants residents of poorer neighborhoods access to city center that would otherwise be inaccessible because of the extremely steep terrain.

Fake trees, complete with fall foliage, are not uncommon in Medellin around Christmas. At night they add to the ubiquitous Christmas light displays.


The flight home.