Medellin Through a New Lens: Sustainable Tourism

I write this from Medellin, Colombia in my new favorite eco-hotel, newly opened with love and a dream in September 2020 by a dynamic husband and wife duo. 10 rooms and the best service in Medellin. As I begin my 40th visit to the country that still captivates my heart, Colombia, I think back to my first visit in 2006. Tourism was not the powerhouse it is today and the commitment to service still needed to be taught. What drew me in was the sheer will of the people, to do whatever it took to take control of their narrative from one held hostage by headlines and Hollywood studios, to one where Colombia gets to share the complete history. I even remember the catchy slogan the tourism board (called Pro Export back then) used, "the only risk is wanting to stay longer." To say this country has transformed this Kenyan native is an understatement.?

I find myself reflecting on all the historic moments this country has had since 2006. and how many of them I had a front-row seat to watch. All while enjoying my favorite Medellin breakfast. I remain amazed at how much of this country has opened up, and that's only since 2016.?

If tourism done right is truly a force for good as I believe it to be, then Colombia should join the conversation that currently includes Uganda and Rwanda as modern miracles that reflect how a country can get control of its own destiny and how a country can embrace an industry that will represent 30% of the global workforce by the end of the decade.?

The fact that I am sitting in my favorite breakfast spot in Medellin listening to Bruno Mars awaiting the arrival of some travel advisors and colleagues is a testament to that. #travel #hotel #people #colombia #tourism #sustainabilitymatters