Golden Elephant Hostel (the process begins)

The search begins...

I started to do some research on national and international tourism in the area, property value, and road conditions to and from the hidden charming town.  After chatting with a few locals and mentioning my interest in purchasing property in Alejandria, the locals were glad to help. 

(Local Alejandrino's)

I looked at two places and was not satisfied, the first was like three boxes of matches next to one another with an opening connecting one another; It lacked lighting, ventilation and a stunning view like I envisioned. The second place had all of the above: a stunning view, plenty of space and ventilation but was falling apart. I would end up spending my remodeling and furnishing budget on just remodeling.  So, the search continued until finally I found ...

 

As soon as I stepped foot in this 7 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 2 balcony, river-front beauty I knew this was the perfect location for Golden Elephant Hostel. 

The remodeling process ...

After a few meetings and certain agreements with the seller, this "diamond in the rough" was officially mine.  The remodeling and interior designing process began, and 3 months passed and before we knew Golden Elephant Hostel was ready to open to the public. 

Golden Elephant Hostel is located in Alejandria, Antioquia near Guatape and Medellin "off the beaten path" perfect for travelers without itineraries who prefer staying off the "Gringo Trail." We opened to the public December 26, 2012 and continue to open our doors to guest from all over the world 365 days a year. Golden Elephant Hostel offers a relaxing atmosphere, several common rooms, balconies and corridors with hammocks, free wifi, a bar, free breakfast, clean and tidy dorm/private rooms, tubing, waterfalls, thermal waters, natural pools, horseback riding, mt. biking, fishing and many more outdoor activities.   

  

   

The BIRTH of Golden Elephant Hostel PART 1

Man, was I surprised Alejandria had surpassed my expectations when I visited in June 2010. I shared the experience with my friends and family; and the idea of Golden Elephant Hostel originated. After visiting many pueblos this trip, like: Concepcion, Guatape, El Peñol, and Rio Negro, Alejandria’s relaxing charm was unique. In the eyes of many: Santa Fe de Antioquia, Jardin and Guatape are the favored tourist destinations from Medellin, but Alejandria has a slow paced life style where you will get lost among the local’s hospitality and get an opportunity to experience the Antioquian countryside while you practice your Spanish.

Alejandria is three hours away from Medellín. A bus from the Terminal del Norte will cost 30,000 pesos ($14) roundtrip. They take several routes (Guatape, San Vicente, Santo Domingo, Barbosa); I highly recommend going through San Vicente, it’s the shortest and it offers a great off-roading experience.  If off-roading is not your thing then Guatape will be your preferred route.