Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, *
http://www.medellintraveler.com/ Medellin, Colombia was considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world for its size, and had a highly disproportional homicide and kidnapping rate. It was the home of the drug lord Pablo Escobar and the so-called Medellín Cartel, who virtually took over the city in the late 1980's and early 1990's. Since his demise in the mid-1990's, the cartel was disbanded and the city has returned to normalcy. For example, the number of homicides 1991 was greater than 4,000. As of June 2005, there were only 386 homicides, making Medellin one of the most secure cities in Latin America.Medellín is a vast city built north to south in the Aburrá valley and surrounded on either side by majestic mountain ranges. The wealthier classes live in the well-protected hillside neighborhood of El Poblado, and the more traditional suburban neighborhoods, Laureles and Envigado. This is far removed from the action and commotion which are found in the city's center. There are the busy markets and a thriving street life that make up much of the city's charm. The city is home to a half-dozen universities, accounting for a vibrant cultural and nightlife scene fueled by thousands of young adults from all over the country. Medellin is also Colombia's largest industrial center, and home to factories making everything from designer clothing to Toyota SUVs. Ironically, the city's northern hills are flooded with rural refugees from the ongoing civil war and their ingenuity in making a living is impressive. People sell anything from crayons to guinea pigs to garden earth in the bars in order to make a living.For international travelers, Medelin is perhaps most famous for its beautiful women and the Botero Museum, whose namesake is arguably the most famous modern artist alive today. It is also known for its perfect climate, as witnessed by its nickname "city of the eternal spring". Traveler be aware: The best advice is to use common sense. Remember, common sense is the least common of all senses. As modern and picturesque as it may seem listen to advice from the locals as to neighborhoods to stay out of.
http://www.medellin.gov.co/alcaldia/jsp/modulos/N_admon/obj/pdf/MEDELLIN EN CIFRAS FINAL2006.pdf?idPagina1105 city safety report http://wikitravel.org/en/Medellin