Vallenato frequently incorporates the accordion, drums and the guacharaca, a stick instrument used to make a scraping sound, along with voice. Vallenato songs are passionate and often focus on themes of love and romance.
Moreover, even though Medellín is a big city, I have found that locals tend to be very open and friendly, even with strangers. In contrast to the stereotypes of coldness and hurriedness that people often associate with big cities in the United States, including New York City, people here seem to maintain a sense of community and welcome visitors and locals alike. For instance, the guard in front of my university always makes a point to greet me with a big smile when I arrive to work each day, and when I run into students, professors and even business owners around my university's neighborhood, they always say hello and wave. I have even befriended restaurant waiters, taxi drivers and fellow bus passengers!
As I orient myself more to the layout of Medellín's neighborhoods and explore different attractions and events, I feel increasingly at home in my new city. It is still hard at times, though, and I often miss my family and closest friends who remain in the United States. But I am becoming a part of new communities here too--at my university, in my home neighborhood of Laureles and at the Museo Casa de la Memoria where I am volunteering. The more that I get involved in groups and activities in Medellín, the easier it becomes to feel connected to other people and learn more about the local culture. It's a challenge to live in a new part of the world, but it's a great adventure, too. I'm having so much fun learning more about myself as I get used to a new way of life in Medellin.
