Medellín, Colombia
Laureles has more local character than El Poblado, with good cafes and lower prices. Still safe enough for solo travel but you'll need more Spanish and will be more noticeable as a foreigner. Better for longer stays than quick tourist visits.
Laureles is where digital nomads and longer-term visitors tend to stay instead of El Poblado. It feels more Colombian - fewer tourists, more locals, and you'll need more Spanish. The area is flatter than El Poblado with wide streets and parks. Good cafes and coworking spaces. La 70 (Carrera 70) has bars and restaurants with a local vibe, not the tourist scene of Parque Lleras. It's cheaper than El Poblado and generally safe, though you'll stand out more as a foreigner.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
ExcellentPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
Good"More authentic than El Poblado - felt like real Colombia"
"Good cafes for working - lots of people with laptops"
"Safe walking during the day; used Uber at night"
"Met other travelers and expats at cafes easily"
"Cheaper than El Poblado and still safe"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Envigado is very safe and cheap with real Colombian life, but there's nothing to do here and almost no English. Good if you want to save money and don't mind taking the metro everywhere for activities.
Manila has the safety and infrastructure of El Poblado without the party chaos. Good for working from cafes, meeting other travelers, and walking around day or night. More residential feel but still plenty of English speakers and tourist-friendly places.
Provenza has the restaurant and bar scene with a more upscale vibe than other parts of El Poblado. Good food options, safer than Parque Lleras, but still watch your stuff in crowded bars at night. Take Uber home late.
Help other women stay safe in Laureles
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.