Basic Phrases for Tourists in Medellín

Medellín, known for its pleasant climate and friendly people, is a popular destination for tourists. Knowing some basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience. Here are some essential phrases that can help you navigate the city.

Greetings

Hola - Hello
Buenos días - Good morning
Buenas tardes - Good afternoon
Buenas noches - Good evening / Good night
¿Cómo estás? - How are you?
Estoy bien, gracias. - I’m fine, thank you.

Common Questions

¿Dónde está...? - Where is...?
¿Cuánto cuesta? - How much does it cost?
¿Habla inglés? - Do you speak English?
¿Puede ayudarme? - Can you help me?
¿Qué me recomienda? - What do you recommend?

Directions

A la derecha - To the right
A la izquierda - To the left
Todo recto - Straight ahead
Cerca - Close
Lejos - Far

Dining

Una mesa para dos, por favor. - A table for two, please.
El menú, por favor. - The menu, please.
¿Qué platos me recomienda? - What dishes do you recommend?
La cuenta, por favor. - The bill, please.

Emergencies

¡Ayuda! - Help!
Necesito un médico. - I need a doctor.
Llama a la policía. - Call the police.
Perdí mi pasaporte. - I lost my passport.

Farewells

Adiós - Goodbye
Hasta luego - See you later
Que tenga un buen día - Have a good day

Cultural Tips

While most people in Medellín are friendly and accommodating, it’s always appreciated when tourists make an effort to speak Spanish. Here are a few cultural tips:

Use formal greetings, like "usted," when addressing someone you don’t know.
A smile goes a long way in establishing goodwill.
Learning a few phrases can lead to warmer interactions with locals.

Conclusion

Familiarizing yourself with these basic phrases can make your trip to Medellín much smoother and more enjoyable. Embrace the culture and don’t hesitate to practice your Spanish!