The Magic of Cartagena

 

Wow! What a week we experienced. We were not sure what to expect but Cartagena exceeded our expectations for sure. Known for its energy, street art, cuisine, hot sunny weather and history, Cartagena is one of the most visited cities in South America... and now I can understand why. One question people kept asking me before I left was, "Is it safe?". I never felt unsafe and people were very welcoming but like anywhere you go you have to be aware of your surroundings. "No des papaya" is something you will hear over and over again in Columbia, and it means do not give someone the opportunity to take advantage of you. So, be smart and be aware, and you will be safe.

We decided to stay just outside the walled city in New Cartagena, also known as Bocagrande. Since we prefer to stay further away from the touristy areas this was the perfect location.  It was a 45 mins walk (so we mostly walked in extreme heat) to the city or a $5 cab ride (negotiate prices before getting in). Our boutique Hotel Dann had a wonderful breakfast included, spacious rooms and was very clean (Karla Clean). It was also directly on the beach with access to the beautiful water and picturesque sunsets. The volcanic sand is very dark and the waves are constant. So, the water is not clear, but it is very clean. All beaches in Cartagena are public which it great but it also means it has many vendors, so being able to stay by the pool area and have access to the beach made the experience so relaxing and enjoyable. Otherwise you spend the entire time saying "No Gracias". We also found a local hidden gem for food in this area called "Sabor and Sazon", food was fabulous. And it was as local as it gets...

Cartagena has come a long way since its dark and turbulent past. It is now considered a growing economy and relies heavily on Tourism. Evolving from a Spanish culture and a history of slavery we are learning to appreciate the efforts of those who were forced to build this vibrant port. The old town walls stand as a testament to Cartagena's tumultuous past, and were once used to offer protection. Nowadays, we can't get enough of the charming cobblestone streets lined with colourful architecture, whimsical doorknockers and live music. 

Having heard about the coffee, we quickly were introduced to a warm and flavourful coffee at Epoca Coffee house. Although the temperature would have probably lent itself to a cold coffee we had to try it out.  We also encountered Juan Valdez Coffee Houses everywhere (their version of Starbucks), which brought back memories of the Columbia coffee commercials we grew up with. 

Just outside the old city but still within the walls we explored the coolest neighbourhood. Getsemani has been gentrifying and is the perfect place to soak up local culture, drink mojitos, eat empanadas from a truck and experience beautiful street art. 

Rob and I also enjoyed a hike with a local guide, Olinto from Taro Adventures. He took us through a 3 hour hike of the Tropical Dry Forest, just 1 hour away from the city. It was an amazing ecosystem with incredible species that were able to adapt to the very long dry season - literally NO rain for three months. We saw various types of animals and interesting plants and trees. Even with parched and cracked ground, the flora was so green. Glad we were able to take advantage of seeing some of the small towns as we traveled to the hiking area. 

Cartagena is a fusion of Spanish history and Latin culture, so it's no surprise that music, dancing, eating and drinking are waiting for you at every turn. Salsa dancing with the locals in Gestsemani and savouring meals throughout old and new Cartagena made every day a wonderful experience. We took in a local cooking class where we learned to make a typical Columbia meal. Make sure to try Piccadas (variety of BBQ meats), Mojarra (fish), Arepas, Patacones (smashed and fried plantain) and Agua de Panela (Sugar Cane Juice), the flavours are incredible. Another evening we decided to do some rum tasting at El Arsenal, taking a tipsy trip experiencing the difference between Columbia's top rums and the country's organic treats. Once you are done eating and drinking you can stroll the lively streets or try some salsa dancing to burn off the calories! 

Everyone said you have to visit the Rosario Islands about an hour away by boat. After doing some research we decided to take a tour that would include a few stops on the Archipelago and some snorkeling. The boat ride was a little wild as we practically flew off of the white capped waves but overall we enjoyed our day. Not sure I would do it again as the stops were flooded with people and the water was murky. The coral reef snorkeling was definitely the highlight, and where we saw the crystal clear water associated with the Caribbean paradise. I think if I were to visit again I would find a beach club that was less touristy and hang out there for the day. 

Each day in Cartagena brings new adventures and opportunities to make memories. From the sandy beaches and romantic vibe, to the vibrant restaurants, bars and salsa dancing, hiking and much much more, Cartagena was the perfect location to celebrate us and making it to 25 years together!