I think that is why we like each other so much. I knew it the first time I visited the city perched on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Travelers often express there are cities you visit, cities you photograph and cities you always remember. Cartagena fits the third description for me.

 

The city is both old world and glamorous, tropical and sophisticated, romantic and slightly unruly all wrapped in one personality.

 

 

First Impressions of Cartagena
My strongest memory was the first time I visited and while in the taxi on the way to my hotel I noticed the ocean. The beach, the vibe right there in my face alongside the bustling buildings and people making up the essence of Cartagena.

 

There are also the massive stone walls of the old city, Ciudad Amurallada, with bougainvillea spilling over balconies, horse-drawn carriages clomping over cobblestones and music that seems to come from every doorway with an invitation inside.

 

And beyond those massive stone walls, modern Cartagena with the ocean lapping and the glass and concrete reminding the visitor of the strong contrast of old and new in Cartagena.

 

 

Somehow, it works. Slow Down and Discover
However, even in the fast-moving modern part of Cartagena, take your time discovering it. Over a few days you can see everything in Cartagena, but the rushing is what will cause you to miss it all. Experience Cartagena with a strong coffee in the morning, a long lunch in the afternoon and nothing otherwise.

 

 

Exploring the Walled City
Visit first the walled city, Ciudad Amurallada. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walled city was built over centuries when Cartagena was one of the Caribbean’s most important ports. Today, you not only get a feel for history, but you will want to watch the sun disappear into the Caribbean from the walls of the city too.

 

You will want to walk around the walled city in the early morning before the heat. Start with Plaza de los Coches, Plaza Santo Domingo and Plaza de Bolívar.

 

The very large fortress that dominates the city while offering the story of Cartagena as a military stronghold is called Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. You will not want to miss it and take time to discover a few of the city’s historic churches and museums.

 

 

The Bohemian Spirit of Getsemaní
In the evening take some time to discover Getsemaní, offering the true bohemian feel that is Cartagena. There are murals, music, street food and it is a good way to create some travel memories when you might least expect it, possibly lingering in order to get the full vibe of this part of Cartagena.

 

 

Beyond the City: The Rosario Islands
While in Cartagena you will not only want to feel the ocean nearby but be a part of it too. Visit the Rosario Islands and nearby Caribbean islands for a different Cartagena experience. You will find turquoise water, coral reefs, beaches and the opportunity to enjoy sand versus cobblestones for the day.

 

 

A Destination for Food Lovers
Cartagena’s food scene is also worthy of a mention in that you will find Caribbean, African, Indigenous and Spanish influences. From fresh seafood, coconut rice, fried plantains, arepas and ceviche, there are also sophisticated restaurants that have turned Cartagena into a food favorite in Colombia.

 

 

When to Visit Cartagena
And bring your linen because Cartagena is tropical, which means hot. Temperatures are warm all year with Colombia’s tourism department putting the average annual temperature around 81°F.
For a drier and sunnier time of year, visit in December through April.

 

May through November is wetter and more humid with tropical downpours, and September and October are the rainiest months of the year.

 

 

Where to Stay
There will also be a few options as to where to stay while in Cartagena.

 

If it is a first visit, stay inside the Walled City. The hotels inside the walls are part of the experience and there are some amazingly restored colonial mansions and former convents that have been transformed into boutique hotels.

 

The Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is in a 17th-century convent, while Hotel Casa San Agustín and Casa Pestagua are for travelers who are interested in history, architecture and old-world romance.
If you want something younger and more bohemian, stay in Getsemaní.

 

And for the traveler looking for modern comforts, stay in Bocagrande. This is where Cartagena’s high-rise hotels, modern apartments and beachfront living replace the old-world experience.

 

 

A City That Embraces Its Contrasts
It is safe to say Cartagena doesn’t politely separate its past from its present. It is the juxtaposition you will find most appealing.

 

From the mix of color, the sound of the music, the rich history, the dripping humidity, the food, the flowers, the sea and the people, it all blends together for a city that could care less about impressing you and more about welcoming you.

 

 

For more information visit: https://procolombia.co/en