Experience in Cali, Colombia by Juan Felipe

What is it like to live in Santiago de Cali? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It’s a medium city with very nice neighborhoods all around the city, and of course some neighborhoods that you would like to avoid. But I’ve lived all my life in Cali, and I’ve not even been robbed once. Cali is always sunny, full of nature, and the nightlife is excellent. There are plenty of good bars and clubs and the alcohol inside is very cheap compared to Europe. In Cali, people are very welcoming and like to show the nice traits of our culture to foreigners because we are very proud of it. People are very nice in the street, people will help you if you are in trouble, but I suggest you to always be skeptical in the streets.

What is the student lifestyle like in Santiago de Cali?

The student lifestyle is very nice in Cali because apart from the great Colombian parties and clubs, the people is also used to go on small weekend trips to summer houses or go make an hour walk to get to a beautiful river. So you get the best from both sides, partying and traveling and getting to know the country.

How much does it cost to live in Santiago de Cali?

Cali is cheaper compared to Europe, but if I would have to make a budget I would assume : 350-600€ for rent, 120€ food/month and 100 - 150€ for partying, going out to eat, etc. (depends how much you go out) 50-60€ for transport

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Santiago de Cali? Is there any advice you can give?

I don’t think is difficult. There are plenty agencies and web pages where people can find accommodation, I suggest to look online and try to research for the best neighborhoods of the city, or asking a friend you might know who knows the city.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Colombian gastronomy is amazing. Is very rich, with a ton of flavors that most people around the world don’t know about. We don’t use lots of condiments in our food, but we have great dishes such as “bandeja paisa” “ajiaco” “sancocho” and my favorite food would have to be the sweet plantain or as we call it “plátano maduro”, in Colombia you get to know how much different ways you can cook it and fry it, it tastes delicious and goes very good with other toppings.

What places would you recommend visiting in Santiago de Cali?

I would recommend to go to “la ropa tolondra” a very familiar salsa club, “10/60” is a rooftop with one of the best Karin parties in Cali, “Sonido Central” for the ravers and techno lovers. If you like music history you can visit “La Plaza Jairo Varela” Which was made in honor to the founder of grupo niche, which is the most recognized Colombian salsa group in all of the country’s history (still active). You should also visit “Iglesia La Ermita” which is a beautiful church located in the west side of the city. You should also try and visit “Charco Escondido” which is a beautiful hidden cascade where you can enjoy the river and jump front the top if you dare to.

Is it good to eat out in Santiago de Cali? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Cali has some very good restaurants. Some of the best restaurants of the city are “platillos voladores” “Tortelli” “ElGringo” “Bourbon Street” Tierra de Todos” “ Antigua Contemporánea”

Is the nightlife good in Santiago de Cali? Where is good to go?

As I said before, is great. You can see the clubs I mentioned before.

What advice would you give future students heading to Santiago de Cali?

You will have fun, so be sure to be safe, always get home with someone if you can, don’t go walking for long distances around the city. Don't take you phone out in the street (including headlight stops inside the car). And in general, be aware of your surroundings. And if you are insecure about something you can always ask to a friend