Cali, Colombia has very much earned its moniker as “the Salsa Capital of the World.” Over the past several decades, the mountain-hugging metropolis has grown from a former plantation city into a vibrant hub of art collectives, salsa clubs, and first-class hotels. While this was partly due to the acclaimed salsa musicians that have come out of this city, Cali also hosted the Pan American Games in 1971. Such a duality is proof that there’s far more to Cali than just salsa. For ex...
Cali, Colombia has very much earned its moniker as “the Salsa Capital of the World.” Over the past several decades, the mountain-hugging metropolis has grown from a former plantation city into a vibrant hub of art collectives, salsa clubs, and first-class hotels. While this was partly due to the acclaimed salsa musicians that have come out of this city, Cali also hosted the Pan American Games in 1971. Such a duality is proof that there’s far more to Cali than just salsa. For example, the city’s other nickname is Caliwood – a result of the high-profile film productions that have staked their place in its verdant valley. In other circles, Cali is also a birdwatcher’s paradise or a mecca for plastic surgery addicts, depending on whom you ask. There’s something for everyone here.
Granada, with its Republican mansions and up-and-coming restaurants that vie constantly for gastronomic supremacy, is the unofficial gay district. San Antonio, with its art galleries, cool cafés, and preserved colonial architecture, is beloved by caleño queers as well. Peñón is also a nice area if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, whereas the city’s Parque del Perro area is more laid-back and budget-friendly. Just remember that, wherever you are, it's important to not “dar papaya,” or show off your valuables.
In any case, when you’re not busy enjoying the many parks that lay under the gaze of El Cerro de las Tres Cruces, you’ll probably want to know where to party. Well, in addition to the bars of Granada, you might consider checking out La Loma de la Cruz park, a historically significant meeting point for queer caleños. You’ll also want to check out Salsa al Parque, which lights up the city every month. As for festivals, there’s Pride, of course, which usually happens in June. But you might also consider visiting during the International Salsa Festival, which celebrates caleño culture and happens concurrently with numerous gay parties.
As a leading producer of sugarcane in Colombia, Cali naturally has two popular alcoholic drinks based on the stuff: caña (a rum made with pure sugarcane) and viche. Cali is also a hotspot for champú, which is a beloved regional concoction made from cloves, honey, corn, cinnamon, and local fruits (of which there are many). Then, when you need an afternoon snack, or “mecato,” you can chow down on a truly caleño treat: An arepa made from chontaduros. The chontaduro, or peach palm, is one of the city’s emblems, and you absolutely have to eat something that’s made from it. Chuletas and fritangas are great meat options, but make sure to finish it all off with a classic hot chocolate con queso. In the end, you’ll be glad that you decided to stop by this smaller, less aggressive cousin of Medellín – and you'll be itching to come back ASAP for another salsa class.
