A neighborhood that opened its doors to the world and evolved, becoming home to different cultures, languages, and flavors. In Medellín, the streets of Manila are the place where the city is experienced, accompanied by the cultural richness that outsiders bring to the neighborhood.
His story
The construction of the Manila neighborhood began in the late 1930s, where different families built their homes and gave the streets an air of tradition. By the 1990s, Manila’s residents coexisted with one of the most important commercial sectors in El Poblado, and the homey place opened its doors to different experiences and ways of connecting.
Today, it’s a place where the essence of the traditional neighborhood coexists with a fresh perspective on the world, where the interaction between locals and foreigners creates new experiences in the city. This is also the case with the creation of Calle De La Buena Mesa, the first space of this name in Medellín, where you can enjoy world cuisines, from flavors influenced by Mexican, Mediterranean, French, Traditional Colombian, and Experimental cuisines—all in one place.
Its evolution
Being local and proud of your roots will always be a plus, but people began to arrive in Manila, bringing new ideas and needs, which has led to a social transformation that has impacted the environment, interactions, and, above all, businesses.
The digital age is an inherent part of the new travelers’ journey, influencing what Manila aims to continue offering. Medellin is one of the most important technological hubs in South America… The new work dynamics that allow people to travel around the world while still performing their jobs have brought digital nomads to the city, seeking spaces equipped with connectivity and interesting experiences.
Manila goes global
Multiculturalism was sown in Manila, pushing the neighborhood’s residents to think globally. How could they continue to offer a service that could be enjoyed by all those who come looking to experience the city? The response led hostels, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and shops to evolve to become international while preserving the warmth of the city.
Businesses and individuals adapted to these new needs, becoming a gastronomic and tourist destination today. Being home to the best hostel in the world according to Hostel World (Los Patios Hostel), the neighborhood has brought Manila recognition in the sector, pushing other hostels to expand their services and experiences in the city. The restaurants and cafes are full of varied flavors that also include the cultures of other countries.
Even the walls of Manila tell stories, putting art and culture at the center of the experiences of those who decide to explore the city, starting in this small neighborhood in El Poblado.
