When most people think of visiting Colombia, they immediately picture the vibrant streets of Medellin, the historic walls of Cartagena, or the bustling capital of Bogota. But if you want to experience the true, beating heart of Colombian culture, you need to head to Cali.

Known as the "Salsa Capital of the World," Santiago de Cali is a city that moves to its own rhythm. From the incredible weather to the mouth-watering food scene, here is why Cali needs to be at the top of your travel bucket list, and where you should stay when you get there.

Cristo Rey Statue

Cat Park

3 Reasons You Will Fall in Love with Cali

1. The Undisputed Capital of Salsa

You don’t have to be a professional dancer to appreciate Cali’s salsa culture; it’s in the air! Whether you’re grabbing a coffee in the morning or walking past a local tienda at night, you’ll hear the infectious beat. Taking a salsa class or simply sipping a cocktail at a legendary club like La Topa Tolondra is a bucket-list experience.

2. A Foodie's Paradise

Cali's culinary scene is a melting pot of Pacific, Indigenous, and Spanish influences. You’ll find yourself devouring local delicacies like lulada (a refreshing fruit drink), empanadas vallunas, and fresh seafood from the nearby Pacific coast. The city’s gastronomic zones are booming with high-end restaurants and incredible street food alike. 

3. The Famous "Caleña Breeze" and Breathtaking Nature

Nestled in a valley and surrounded by lush green mountains, Cali boasts fantastic, warm weather year-round. Every afternoon at 4:00 PM, a refreshing wind known as la brisa Caleña rolls through the city, cooling down the tropical heat and making it the perfect time to explore historic neighborhoods like San Antonio.

Taking a salsa class

Loaded Arepa

The Cauca Valley

Where to Stay: Meet "Alma Nómada"

If you’re traveling to Cali, where you stay can make or break your trip. You want a place that is safe, centrally located, and authentically designed.

During our time in Cali, we found the absolute perfect gem. Meet Alma Nómada, a brand-new, beautifully curated Airbnb located in the exclusive, quiet northern neighborhood of Santa Monica Residencial.

Whether you are a digital nomad, a group of friends, or a couple looking for a stylish retreat, this space is unparalleled.

Here is why we consider it the best stay in the city:

1. Unbeatable Strategic Location

Location is everything in Cali. Alma Nómada is located in a quiet, peaceful, and safe residential area, yet it’s only a 5-minute drive from Granada (Cali’s premier Gastronomic Zone) and the Chipichape Shopping Center. You get the peace and quiet needed to sleep, with the city's best restaurants, supermarkets, and cafes right at your fingertips.

2. Stunning Brand-Designed Interiors

The host, Mariana, is a Brand Designer, and it absolutely shows. The apartment is flawlessly decorated, spacious, and filled with natural light. The open and integrated kitchen flows perfectly into the living room, creating a gorgeous environment to host, cook, or just relax.

3. Room for Everyone (And a Penthouse Hammock!)

This spacious unit comfortably sleeps up to 6 guests with 3 beds and 2 baths.

• The Master: Features a luxurious King bed and a private bathroom.

• The Secondary Room: Cozy and comfortable with a Queen bed.

• The Penthouse: The crown jewel of the apartment! A unique penthouse level featuring a hammock and an extra bed—the absolute perfect corner to read a book, meditate, or take an afternoon nap.

4. Digital Nomad & Long-Stay Ready

If you are working remotely, Alma Nómada has you covered with dedicated workspaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, and air conditioning and fans in all spaces (a luxury in Cali's warm climate!). Plus, it features a self-check-in keypad and an at-home drip coffee maker so you can start your mornings right.

Ready to Experience Cali?

Cali is a city that grabs hold of your soul, and having a luxurious, quiet, and perfectly located home base like Alma Nómada makes the experience 10x better.

Want more insider travel tips, exclusive guides, and direct links to our favorite stays around the world? 👉 Click on Travel Resources for our travel booking tools!