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themedellinmap.com - In Situ, Jardin Botanico...

IN SITU
In Situ serves a range of gourmet meals surrounded by picturesque views of Medellin's Jardin Botanico.

The food is organic wherever possible and the aim is clearly to use healthy ingredients that reflect the garden's fresh and clean philosophy. But, that doesn't mean that In Situ's food is somehow unadventurous or lacking in that killer punch.

Indeed, In Situ manages to combine recipies that are delcious, different from the norm and yet traditional; all without turning itself into the local weirdo. The freshly made juices with Maracuya, mint and ginger are a prime example.

In Situ is rightly proud of its open air surroundings and understandably reluctant to close doors or blinds obstructing views of the Jardin Botanico. As such, anyone overly sensitive to cold evenings or direct sunshine in the afternoon should choose their table wisely. It's also worth making a reservation to avoid disappointment.

For special requests email: chef at jbmed.org

JARDIN BOTANIC
With so many interesting trees and plants throughout Medellin, you might wonder why it needs a botanical garden.

But, aside from being a scientific laboratory to preserve and promote Colombia's plant life, Medellin's Jardin Botanico also serves as source for environmental education.

That said, it's all too easy just to have a quick wonder before seeking out a nice soft patch of grass and dosing off. Indeed, the best thing about Medellin's Jardin Botanico is the way the city's noise and polution seems to fade away as you wonder through the gardens.

If walking or sleeping makes you hungry, you will be able to choose between the garden's simple barbecue cafeteria or a gourmet restaurant called In Situ.

The garden is also a popular venue for private parties and ceremonies, so if you are seeking blissful silence, try to avoid weekends or ring in advance.

PARQUE EXPLORA
Parque Explora creates an educational environment for young minds through interactive experiences and exhibitions.

The park's aquarium exhibits fish from some of Colombia's fresh water rivers. While quotes like '2,200-square-meter aquarium with 600,000 litres of water' do nothing to help would-be visitors appreciate its size, it is not nearly as misleading as the quite ridiculous rumour that it is 'the biggest aquarium in South America'.

But, irrespective of its granditure, it's clearly something to marvel at for many Colombians who have only ever seen fish alongside a plate of rice. Indeed, you may hear endearing questions like 'which one is the fried fish?' from kids and adults alike.

Just beyond the aquarium you will find several large spiders, snakes and other wriggly beasts, including some ultra poisonous frogs who are so colourful they look like jelly sweets. Most of the inmates seem relatively content in captivity, if a little worn out by all the attention.

But, perhaps that's because they've already visited Parque Explora's four interactive exhibition halls, which might make you reminisce about your last school trip. Somewhat absurdly, the entrance fee only permits access to one of the four exhibit halls, unless you are under 1.1m high.

Parque Explora is open weekdays 8:30am to 6pm, weekends 10 to 6:30, and it's closed on Mondays.

For an interactive map of Medellin with comprehensive travel guide listings and independent reviews, please visit: http://www.themedellinmap.com

the medellin map is written by apartments-medellin.com. Please visit http://www.apartments-medellin.com for luxury apartment rentals in El Poblado, Medellin.

By englishman on Jul 10, 2009, 12:19 in Travel tips.

Elmin says on Jul 10, 2009, 14:03:

Englishman, i like the way you promote your site. Instead of just dumping your link on here you actually add some value for us all

thanks for the reviews

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Haddeman says on Jul 10, 2009, 16:41:

az,
You will love it ,the restaurant and setting is great.I took my daughters for lunch when they came over a few weeks back,it was first class and not outrageously price,either.

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englishman says on Jul 11, 2009, 06:36:

Sorry, I never recieve any friend requests.

at johnny2008, I am South London scum... so... ... actually you're right, maybe I did block the request afterall.

Thanks everyone.

http://www.apartments-medellin.com http://www.themedellinmap.com

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