604-442-5142 help@911medellin.com

CHAPTER 10: The 80-Point Action Plan and Final Itineraries

Jun 7, 2026

You’ve done the research. You know the neighborhoods, you understand the risks, and you’ve seen the rewards. But knowledge without action is just a daydream: and in a city as fast-paced as Medellín, a daydream can quickly turn into a headache if you aren't prepared.

This final chapter is your tactical roadmap. We’ve distilled everything from the previous nine chapters into a hard-hitting, 80-point checklist and three curated itineraries. Whether you’re here for a weekend of nightlife, a week of business, or a month of remote work, these are the steps that ensure you stay in the "VIP" category and out of the "Target" category.

The Full 80-Point Intelligence Checklist

Don't just skim this. Tick these off as you go. We’ve broken them down into the phases of your trip so you can execute with precision.

Phase 1: Pre-Departure & Booking (1–15)

  1. Verify Passport: Ensure you have at least 6 months of validity.
  2. Visa Check: Confirm your entry requirements (most Westerners get 90 days on arrival).
  3. Register with Embassy: Use STEP (for Americans) or your country's equivalent.
  4. Secure Travel Insurance: Does it cover medical evacuation? It should.
  5. Book Secure Transport: Never plan to "wing it" at the airport. Book your 911 Medellín pickup here.
  6. Vet Your Airbnb/Hotel: Is there a 24/7 doorman? Check recent reviews for "noise" and "security."
  7. Notify Banks: Tell them you're in Colombia so your cards aren't frozen.
  8. Get a Backup Card: Keep one card in your safe, one on your person.
  9. Digital Backup: Upload scans of your ID and insurance to a secure cloud.
  10. Emergency Contact: Designate one person back home who has your full itinerary.
  11. Medication Check: Bring enough for your trip plus 5 days extra.
  12. Download Offline Maps: Google Maps works better when you aren't hunting for 5G.
  13. Learn Basic Phrases: "Where is…", "Help," and "Call the police."
  14. Set Up 2FA: Ensure your banking apps don't require an SMS to a phone number you're about to turn off.
  15. Check the Weather: Medellín is the "City of Eternal Spring," but it rains. Pack accordingly.

Phase 2: The Arrival & First 24 Hours (16–30)

  1. Arrival Protocol: Stay inside the terminal until your 911 Medellín driver confirms they are at the curb.
  2. SIM Card: Get a local SIM (Claro or Tigo) immediately at the airport or El Tesoro mall.
  3. Cash Strategy: Withdraw 500,000 COP at an ATM inside a secure mall.
  4. Check-In Security: Confirm your room safe works and the door deadbolt is functional.
  5. Neighborhood Walk: Do a daytime lap of your immediate block to find the nearest pharmacy and grocery store.
  6. Store Your Passport: Original in the safe, photo on your phone.
  7. Verify "The Rule": Never leave your phone on a table in public.
  8. Identify Safe Havens: Locate the nearest major hospital (e.g., El Tesoro or Pablo Tobón Uribe).
  9. Establish Ground Truth: Ask your 911 Medellín driver about any recent "no-go" zones.
  10. Hydrate: The altitude (1,500m) can sneak up on you.
  11. Set Up Rideshare: Download Uber or Cabify as backups to your private driver.
  12. Check the Tap Water: It’s technically drinkable in Medellín, but stick to bottled if you have a sensitive stomach.
  13. Unpack/Organize: Keep your security gear (trackers, etc.) in a consistent spot.
  14. Confirm Return Logistics: Double-check your departure flight time.
  15. First Meal: Stick to a reputable spot in Provenza or Manila to ease into the local cuisine.

Phase 3: Daily Operations & Social Intelligence (31–55)

  1. Dress Down: Leave the Rolex and heavy gold chains at home. Low-profile is the goal.
  2. Phone Discipline: Only take your phone out inside a shop or restaurant, never on the sidewalk.
  3. Wallet Split: Keep a "mugger's wallet" with $20 and an expired card; keep the real one hidden.
  4. Dating App Vetting: Never bring a stranger back to your residence. Use a neutral, public 3rd-party location.
  5. Drink Watch: Never leave your glass unattended. Scopolamine is a real risk.
  6. Atmosphere Check: If a bar feels "off" or "too aggressive," pay and leave immediately.
  7. Metro Etiquette: Keep your backpack on your front in crowded trains.
  8. Taxi Warning: Never hail a yellow cab on the street at night. Use an app or your driver.
  9. Avoid "The Centro" at Night: Stick to Parque Berrio/Botero during the day only.
  10. Situational Awareness: Periodically scan 360 degrees when walking.
  11. ID Check: Carry a color photocopy of your passport and your driver's license.
  12. Tip Correcty: 10% is standard (Propina Voluntaria).
  13. Be Polite: "Por favor" and "Gracias" go a long way in Paisa culture.
  14. No Drugs: Possession is illegal and puts you in contact with the wrong people.
  15. Keep it Quiet: Don't discuss your financial status or business details in public.
  16. Check Your Receipts: Ensure the "service" charge wasn't already added before you tip extra.
  17. Stay Grouped: If traveling with friends, use a "buddy system" at the clubs.
  18. Charge Your Devices: Always head out with 100% battery and a portable charger.
  19. Emergency Script: Have a pre-written text in Spanish ready to send if you need help.
  20. Location Sharing: Keep your Google Maps location shared with a trusted contact.
  21. Avoid Lleras After Midnight: It gets chaotic; move to Provenza or a private venue.
  22. Vet Your Nightlife Guide: Only use 911 Medellín-vetted concierge services.
  23. Watch the "Honey Traps": If someone is "too" interested in you, be skeptical.
  24. Secure Your Bag: Use a crossbody bag with locking zippers.
  25. Trust Your Gut: If it feels wrong, it is wrong.

A professional bodyguard discreetly monitoring a high-end social event at a rooftop lounge in Provenza.

Phase 4: Medical, Wellness & Logistics (56–70)

  1. Medical Vetting: Only use clinics with international accreditation (JCI).
  2. Recovery Housing: If having surgery, ensure your recovery house has 24/7 nursing and security.
  3. Dental Check: Medellín has world-class dentists; book your cleaning early.
  4. Stem Cell Prep: Ask for the lab's certifications before any treatment.
  5. Sun Protection: The sun at this altitude is intense. Wear SPF 50.
  6. Gym Security: Use lockers and bring your own lock.
  7. Verify Surgeons: Cross-reference them with the Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery.
  8. Post-Op Security: You are vulnerable after surgery; hire a shadow guard for the first 48 hours.
  9. Emergency Cash: Keep $100 USD hidden in your luggage for emergencies.
  10. Air Quality: If you have asthma, be aware that the valley can trap pollution occasionally.
  11. Healthy Eating: Enjoy the fruit, but wash it first.
  12. Sleep Hygiene: The city is loud; bring earplugs.
  13. Pharmacy Needs: Many meds are over-the-counter here, but consult a doctor first.
  14. Insurance Claim: Keep all receipts if you need to file a claim later.
  15. Check-In with Home: A quick "all good" text every morning saves worry.

Phase 5: Deep Intelligence & Emergency (71–80)

  1. 911 Medellín SOS App: Have our contact number on speed dial.
  2. Identify the "Quadra": Know who the "security" is on your street (usually guys in vests).
  3. Know the 123 System: 123 is the national emergency number.
  4. Riot/Protest Awareness: Avoid large political gatherings; they can turn quickly.
  5. Fire Safety: Check your building's fire exits.
  6. Secure Your Data: Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi.
  7. Flashlight: Keep a small tactical light in your day bag.
  8. Whistle/Alarm: A loud personal alarm can deter many petty thieves.
  9. 911 Medellín GPS Tracker: For high-risk individuals, keep your tracker active.
  10. Review This List Weekly: Repetition is the key to security.

The 3-Day Starter Itinerary: The "Paisa" Primer

Perfect for the first-timer who wants the highlights without the risk.

  • Day 1: Orientation & High Ground.
    • Morning: Secure pickup from MDE. Check into your Poblado/Manila hotel.
    • Lunch: Traditional Bandeja Paisa at Mondongos (Poblado).
    • Afternoon: Private driving tour of the city (911 Medellín security driver). Visit Plaza Botero and the MetroCable to Santo Domingo for the views.
    • Evening: Dinner at El Cielo for a world-class culinary experience.
  • Day 2: Transformation & Art.
    • Morning: Guided tour of Comuna 13. Use a vetted guide to see the escalators and street art safely.
    • Lunch: Fusion food in Laureles (Segundo Parque).
    • Afternoon: Visit Museo de Antioquia or Jardín Botánico.
    • Evening: Rooftop drinks at The Envy or Marquee in Provenza.
  • Day 3: The Countryside Escape.
    • All Day: Private SUV trip to Guatapé. Climb El Peñol (740 steps) and explore the colorful town.
    • Evening: Farewell dinner at Carmen.

The 7-Day Balanced Itinerary: The Full Experience

The "Pro" level visit. You’ll see the city, the culture, and the lifestyle.

  • Days 1-3: Follow the Starter Itinerary above.
  • Day 4: Business & Coffee.
    • Morning: Visit a local coffee farm (Finca) just 45 mins outside the city.
    • Afternoon: Networking at a high-end coworking space like Selina or Semilla.
    • Evening: Salsa lesson at a private studio in Laureles.
  • Day 5: Wellness & Shopping.
    • Morning: Spa treatment or dental check-up at El Tesoro.
    • Lunch: Healthy bowls at Pergamino.
    • Afternoon: Luxury shopping at El Tesoro or Santa Fe Mall.
  • Day 6: The Nightlife Circuit.
    • Morning: Late breakfast, relax by the pool.
    • Afternoon: Private shooting range course with the 911 Medellín team.
    • Evening: VIP bottle service in Provenza with shadow protection.
  • Day 7: Reflection & Departure.
    • Morning: Walk through the San Antonio park or the local market (La Minorista).
    • Afternoon: Secure transport back to MDE.

The Digital Nomad First Week: Productivity & Security

For those staying 1 month+. Get settled, get safe, get to work.

  • Day 1: Secure arrival + SIM card + Grocery run.
  • Day 2: Coworking "Speed Dating." Visit three spots to find your "tribe."
  • Day 3: Security Briefing. Meet with a 911 Medellín rep for a local area threat assessment.
  • Day 4: First deep-work block. Set up your "remote office" security protocols.
  • Day 5: Networking. Attend a local meet-up (in a safe, vetted location).
  • Day 6: Neighborhood exploration (Laureles vs. Envigado).
  • Day 7: Admin day. Bank runs, gym signup, and laundry.

A high-end personal GPS tracking device used for monitoring VIPs and family members in Medellin.

Final Buyer Action Plan

Before you close this guide and book your flight, do these three things:

  1. Pick Your Base: Decide on Poblado (Action), Laureles (Local), or Envigado (Quiet).
  2. Save the 911 Medellín Intelligence: Add our number (+57 301 625 2121) to your WhatsApp and save it as "Security – 911."
  3. Screenshot the Emergency Page: Go back to the Directory chapter and screenshot the emergency scripts and hospital addresses. Keep them in a "Medellín" folder on your phone.

What Our Clients Say

"I've traveled to over 50 countries, and Medellin is one of my favorites, but it's a city that requires respect. I hired 911 Medellin for my first week to handle airport transfers and a night out in Provenza. Their professionalism was unmatched. Having an armed driver who knows the shortcuts and the 'who's who' of the city gave me total peace of mind. I won't visit without them."
: Danny Tremblay

We’ve Got Your Back

Medellín is waiting for you. It’s a city of innovation, beauty, and incredible energy. By following this guide, you’ve already positioned yourself ahead of 99% of other travelers. You aren't just a tourist; you're an informed visitor with a security mindset.

If you ever feel out of your depth or just want that extra layer of bulletproof luxury, look no further. We are ready when you are.

Contact 911 Medellín today:

Safe travels. We'll see you in the City of Eternal Spring.

Call 24 Hours