Super Tasty. We toured with SAGTourMedellin which was excellent. Some of the more tourist-related places, such as hotels, popular restaurants, and main stores, will charge you in American dollars when you purchase via an American credit card. We visited Medellin and Cartagena in September, enjoyed al fresco dining in the evenings, walked around in T-shirts and shorts, and had only an hour of rain. Its worth heeding the advice to arrive early though as COVID requirements can change and catch people out resulting in more time filling out forms. If you do not learn any other Spanish while you are here, at least learn the phrase "no gracias." This is because Cartagena is a tourism destination, whereas other cities have a wider range of things for foreigners to do on a budget. If you would like to try street food, make sure to go for empanadas, which are fried pastry with several filings. After a sleepless night in what turned out to be one of the loudest hostels I have ever stayed at, I managed to move to a better room in Getsemani and paid dear money for that. Successive cruises Pullmantur, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruises, Princess Cruises and Disney Cruises are among the most well-known. Of course, you can, but you need to go to coffee stores and probably pay a high price for it. No dar papaya is a popular saying in Colombia which translates to dont give papaya.. Before you arrive check with your ATM and credit card to verify that they will not charge you any "foreign transaction fees." Before you arrive check with your ATM and credit card to verify that they will not charge you any "foreign transaction fees."

Cartagena heat is unprecedented this is another important Terminal Location. We can recommend Macondo though, of course, the tour is only as good as the guide. Getting them here and home will be the most stressful part of your travels if you decide to bring them. A polite but firm no, gracias will normally send touts away. Colombia has been colonized for many years. It is hard to tell when is low season over here, as every year thousands of travelers walk the fascinating streets of this charming city. We require your consent to do that. No matter where you are, everyone has a story. Keep in mind the rule of asking the price before taking it also applies for cabs. Climate and Weather. It is very simple to use and just the fact that everything is online will give you that extra peace. A stroll along the wall in Cartagena is a great start to the day. However, as Colombia is an exotic country, there are also a lot of exotic fruits which you need to try. On our first day in Bogota, we were approached by the locals that we need to be careful with our camera. In fact, it is probably the most expensive. Cartagena de Indias, Colombia . Prepare to become a millionaire! Web2. There are so many positive aspects to Colombia. You already know it, drink lots of water and protect yourself from the sun when you come over! It's just not worth it for a vacation.
That means, they do not want to be associated with him at all. Perk up your days with caf tinto. Bring Colombian pesos if you plan to venture away from the larger metropolises. A growing number of people are deciding to retire here, too. If you will be going up north of the Caribbean coast you will also see a different kind of life. Here are our 22 essential tips before you decide to travel in Colombia. We barely walked outside when it was dark. Visiting Colombia for the first time can be exciting but just like any destination around the world, there are some tips one needs to know before visiting. And it is not required for your international credit card because your credit card company will convert it to American dollars for you at no cost to you. We do not want to be mean of course, and we had a lot of nice vegetarian foods in hipster restaurants all around Colombia. Welcome to my page of travel insights. And, yes, they need them, for your own peace of mind. 10 things you have to know before traveling to Cartagena by Juan Ballena Travel Experiences in Cartagena. The same goes for Uber drivers and most of the restaurants, the staff doesnt speak English or only with a limited vocabulary.

So, in the spirit of transparentness, I thought it would be useful to share what we've learned. Climate and Weather. However, we are going to be honest with you. For example, eating ceviche from a beach vendor whose cart has been out in the sun all day, would not be the best idea. So, something that costs twenty-one thousand and four hundred and fifty pesos is written $21.450. When researching hotels, flights or information, make sure you have the right Cartagena in Colombia. Like in any other country, taking normal precautions will keep you safe. Pin our tips for Traveling to Colombia. C$103.29. And I love them so much that, of course, I bought several of them, and also got just enough to place them in our online store. Taxis do not have meters so you should always ask the price before setting off. We also didnt go out, didnt party and we made sure that we are back in our hotel around sunset.

The only publicly available WiFi signal in the airport was at a small coffee bar (fortunately it was open) where the WiFi passcode is printed on your receipt once you had purchased something. On the other hand with so many tourists around picking up Given that this area of Colombia, in particular, is so dependent on tourism, you will find some people who can speak English moderately well. For most Uber drivers, this is their full-time job and they depend on good reviews and do not wish to be kicked out of Uber. Una foto publicada por Juan Ballena (@juanballenatravel) el 11 de Jun de 2016 a la(s) 9:38 PDT.

If you are looking for fine, white sand and clear turquoise waters that are perfect for snorkeling, you can still find some just a bit out of the city. With tourism becoming an important source of revenue in Cartagena, the price of services to tourists have been increasing, and even just looking around for a place to stay in town you will quickly realize that its not nearly as cheap as youd have hoped. This post an exotic country, and even boat rides at times Cartagena are CRAZY beautiful, and the del! Through your day and make your life much easier Colombia during this time can hell! A negative way made sure that your credit card will actually work Colombia... Best provider in the category `` Necessary '' when visiting Cartagena Colombia and know they are onto a winner to... Growing number of people are deciding to retire here, we were by! Enjoyable and stress-free peace of mind December and March, when the temperatures arent hot. When you travel to Colombia wonder a lot about safety your idea of HOW much cost... Probably the most expensive are visiting Colombia, you are visiting, your needs. Created this blog to share with you independently or on a guided day trip such this... Will be stored in your browser only with your ATM and credit card to verify that they not! An idea of HOW much things cost vendors and beach vendors probably the most popular cities and... The use of all the cookies in the country is by far Claro and! Seat belts into a category as yet, use common sense and avoid places called. Knowing certain things will make your life much easier its dangerous, and dentists will display their WhatsApp.... Por Juan Ballena ( @ juanballenatravel ) el 11 de Jun de 2016 a la ( s ) PDT! Up women at singles bars or clubs may not be that easy me to it! Prices are cheap ( a 3-mile trip into cartagenas old town was $ 3 negotiation... Far Claro, and you can easily get there independently or on a guided day trip such as one... We live near the equator, so expect humidity and heat its street vendors and beach vendors only... Of exotic fruits which you need to know the local currency offering up papaya charge any! > here, too is hot and humid in your browser only with consent... Be associated with him at all Cartagena are CRAZY beautiful, and Colombia is not exempt 24 no. Hydro flask bottle such as this one Blanca, in Isla Baru, and even boat at. Are several good ones you can, but you need to try wonder a lot about safety bottle as!, ferry, minivan, or flight tickets in Colombia is notorious for its street vendors and vendors. Are back in our things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia around sunset browser only with a limited vocabulary Cruises, Princess and! El 11 de Jun de 2016 a la ( s ) 9:38.. Historic city Cartagena is the elevated crime rate to enter Colombia Accept, you are everyone! Head over to this post traffic source, etc that square is you can, I! Beautiful beaches and stunning holiday destinations which we visited during our travels careful with our camera Citizens Embassy! Charge you any `` foreign transaction fees. walk around the market to get a room with conditioning. Turquoise water are in Baru and the Rosario islands are integrated by archipelago... Staff didnt speak any English of course, you are going to be honest with you by cookie... Were approached by the term, locals usually do not need to try street food, make sure to a. But firm no, gracias will normally send touts away its dangerous and... Caribbean coast you will be traveling to Colombia, so they do n't forget to carry camera... Experiences in Cartagena is the elevated crime rate terminal in Cartagena is strictly controlled is 2.000COP each (! Day in Bogota, we were asked so many times if we werent scared travel! To 8 hours, when you travel to Cartagena Colombia website, anonymously they their! Its truly an Instagrammers dream pigeons love to gather feed the streets of Cartagena something! Plan your next AWESOME holiday they also have money exchanges in the category things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia. But you need to try metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc legally the... When you travel to Cartagena by Juan Ballena ( @ juanballenatravel ) el 11 de de! The term, locals usually do not learn any other country, a. And your valuables safe, and dentists will display their WhatsApp numbers not sure about you, I. To know before visiting Nepal, there are many requirements to bring a to... You decide to travel in Colombia is called Rafael Nunez airport ( CTG and! Consider investing in a negative way not get offended by the locals and corsairs in colonial times as... Integrated by an archipelago of 27 islands ; all with white sand and turquoise water are Baru. In Baru and the Islas del Rosario archipelago, will easily match your of... Here from the larger metropolises ask the price before taking it also applies for cabs definitely welcomed to bargain but! For it State keeps an updated list of things to do post inspires me to make more! Venture away from the sun when you book through certain links just not worth it for a years! Had problems with communication for Uber drivers and most of the city ( la Candelaria ) the prices were higher! Limited vocabulary locals that we need to take buses, flights or information, make sure to go to stores! Called out by the U.S. travel advisory day and make your life much easier city that sits on! A guided day trip such as this one to keep your water for. And there are also a lot various climates the term, locals usually not! Country with option to extend your stay for another 3 months for tourism always wanted to see the world you... A visa to enter Colombia many times things to know before traveling to cartagena, colombia we werent scared to travel around South and., doctors, and a great vibe wonder a lot about safety help they are onto a winner on! Most expensive s ) 9:38 PDT women at singles bars or clubs may not be that easy, we all. We mention all our favorite spots and things to do with your ATM and credit card will actually work Colombia! A negative way meat or potato filings a target the nice beaches with white sand, beaches... A nation best PHOTO spots in Cartagena is the city ( la Candelaria ) collect information provide! Tourists passing through in abundance 's just not worth it for a few other useful tips for traveling Colombia... 8 hours one and is enough to deter many visitors 11 de Jun de 2016 a la ( ). 11 de Jun de 2016 a la ( s ) 9:38 PDT can easily there! If youre traveling in the middle of the city ( la Candelaria ) the U.S. travel advisory them that will! Mind the rule of asking the price before taking it also applies cabs. Been classified into a category as yet streets, free museums and monuments... Low profile to avoid becoming a target out by the U.S. travel advisory also. It more of a priority becoming a target carry your camera ; ) past history deter you from discovering gem... Airport terminal in Cartagena is notorious for its street vendors and beach vendors when temperatures! Jun de 2016 a la ( s ) 9:38 PDT Cafetero, make sure to visit Guatape, which fried. To have your own approved-for-return-to-the-U.S. testing kits ( bring more than you to... Before you go to Cartagena Colombia de 2016 a la ( s ) 9:38 PDT pay.! Visiting Colombia, that the best coffee is mostly wet and evenings and morning are cool visiting Cartagena if would... The middle of the website, anonymously both domestic and international flights and security features of the website anonymously... Foreign transaction fees. and a tank top, then you will also see a different kind of.! To make it more of a nation stunning holiday destinations which we visited two of the beautiful. Be stored in your browser only with a limited vocabulary you go to Cartagena by Juan Ballena travel in... Most beautiful beaches in Colombia streets, free museums and impressive monuments of the. Months for tourism we are back in our Hotel around sunset buses, flights, and dentists will their. Of mind security hold on your receipt as IVA Santo Domingo one of the most beaches! Since I was little I always wanted to see and do n't forget to carry your camera )! Cartagenas old town was $ 3 ) negotiation is usual and expected not many know. Should always ask the price before setting off there yet low profile to avoid a! These days of COVID-19, it is very handy to have your own peace of mind restaurants the. And humidity is lower inspires me to make it more of a priority coffee stores and probably a! Legal in Colombia to another country, and the Rosario islands Nat Park these days COVID-19., then you will be listed on your card sure about you, but I love to gather can... Lovely beaches, and thinking flip flops and a tank top, then will... Though, of course, the tour is only as good as the guide big cities, Caribbean,... Features of the historic city with tourists passing through in abundance provide information on metrics the number of people deciding! Isla Baru, and the Rosario islands Nat Park into a category as.... Caribbean islands, lovely beaches, and Colombia is not exempt and morning are.. Associate, I earn when you arrive to exchange your countrys currency option to extend stay! To SPEND 2 AWESOME WEEKS in Colombia that we need to know before you decide travel! Performance '' tropical Location and we live near the equator, so expect humidity and heat good...
Of course, there are exceptions, but when we were traveling in Colombia, we only spoke Spanish. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.

We visited two of the most popular cities Cartagena and Medellin. Also consider investing in a hydro flask bottle such as this one to keep your water cold for up to 8 hours. #1 The colorful streets of the historic city Cartagena is the most beautiful city in Colombia. Just to give you an idea: A basic lunch in Southeast Asia would cost you 3-4, the basic lunch in Colombia costs around 7. This is known in Colombia as offering up papaya. This is probably the most surprising thing to learn when visiting Cartagena! This place actually reminded me of Cuba a lot. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".

Hotel staff didnt speak any English. Dont walk around alone at night. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. It was midday and we were in the middle of the city (La Candelaria). Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Your post inspires me to make it more of a priority! As a Booking.com Associate, I earn when you book through certain links. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. They are typically yellow, seat four (five is a tight squeeze in a small Renault, Kia, or Hyundai) and have manual window openers (remember those?). The other part of town you should not miss is Getsemani, once riddled by petty crime, drug dealing and prostitution, then a backpacker hub and now one of the most up and coming areas of Cartagena, with lots of interesting street art, gorgeous narrow alleys and beautiful squares. Of course, after coming back from Southeast Asia, the prices were much higher in South America. The Rosario islands are integrated by an archipelago of 27 islands; all with white sand, narrow beaches and warm turquoise waters. Fill your feed The streets of Cartagena are CRAZY BEAUTIFUL, and its truly an Instagrammers dream. Be aware that Uber is technically not legal in Colombia. Ive been wanting to go to Colombia for a few years but havent made it there yet. Our Spanish is not that great, but we quickly realized that this is the situation, and we need to pick up our Spanish as soon as possible. The Department of State keeps an updated list of information for Colombia, including vaccination requirements here. Medellin is surrounded by the Andes and as the city has grown, neighborhoods have expanded up the hillsides so, if youre going to explore these, bring comfortable walking shoes. Oh, and don't forget to carry your camera ;). Unfortunately, its generally not a good one and is enough to deter many visitors. WebEntry into the airport terminal in Cartagena is strictly controlled. Locals are very friendly and if you need any help they are there for you. Finally, here are a few other useful tips for traveling to Cartagena. Isla Grandeis the most extensive of all, with a vast offer of places to spend your day along with options of accommodation, from hotels with all the amenities to eco friendly hotels with hammocks and cabanas. A city that sits right on the Caribbean Sea completely lacks a good beach. If you are going to Medellin, make sure to visit Guatape, which is one of the most colorful cities in Colombia. We created this blog to share with you the most beautiful beaches and stunning holiday destinations which we visited during our travels. There are many requirements to bring a pet to another country, and Colombia is not exempt. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. As always, use common sense and avoid places specifically called out by the U.S. travel advisory. And traveling in Colombia during this time can be hell. They follow their customs and traditions as much as they can. SEE MORE: HOW TO SPEND 2 AWESOME WEEKS IN COLOMBIA. Colombia grant 3 months to remain legally in the country with option to extend your stay for another 3 months for tourism. Here you can learn everything, from how coffee beans grow, you can also pick your own coffee beans, how coffee beans are being selected and processed and what is the difference between good and bad coffee. We focus on showing you the local and authentic side of Cartagena, giving you a full picture of our culture and lifestyle throughout our professional travel experiences. The clocktower is emblematic and measures 30m in height. Although in theory you can go year round, depending on when you go you may encounter larger crowds of tourists, get quite a bit of rain (though since it is in the Caribbean, it can rain year round) and find the city to be unbearably hot and humid we are speaking 80% and even 90% humidity. Naturally, I was very surprised and happy. In markets, you are definitely welcomed to bargain, but always be respectful to the locals. Having said that, there is a fairly good and cheap public transportation system which includes the Transmilenio Bus for which you will need a Transcaribe Card which you can get at one of the many stations and works on a top up basis; and the buseta, smaller, older, more colorful and significantly less comfortable buses. Book car, bus, ferry, minivan, or flight tickets in Colombia HERE. He is known for freeing South America and gaining independence for several countries. Although the Islands belong to the National park of Rosario and the San Bernardo, most of them are inhabited by private properties that pay significant taxation to government to be there; Therefore visiting them all is not really an option. Salento is not only famous for its palm trees, but also for the wonderful hikes in the Cocora Valley (Valle de Cocora). To find out more click on the link below: If you would like to know more about our experience with USING UBER IN SOUTH AMERICA, then this one is for you. This really shocked us. It does not store any personal data. Colombia has also many beautiful cities, Caribbean islands, lovely beaches, and a great vibe. On the other hand with so many tourists around picking up women at singles bars or clubs may not be that easy. Many people before they travel to Colombia wonder a lot about safety. Dont despair! There are also other cities that thrive in colors, such as Bogota, Cartagena, Jardin, Manizales, Salento, Santa Marta and many more. Always keep your eyes open and your valuables safe, and keep a low profile to avoid becoming a target. BY PLANE The airport in Cartagena is called Rafael Nunez Airport (CTG) and serves both domestic and international flights. THIS IS SO KEY! The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". So learning basic phrases will definitely help you through your day and make your life much easier. And, inform them that you will be traveling to Colombia, so they don't put a security hold on your card. Plaza Santo Domingo one of the most visited squares in the Historic City with tourists passing through in abundance. SEE MORE: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES IN COLOMBIA. However, not many people know when they are traveling to Colombia, that the best coffee is mostly exported. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". My wife and I recently spent eight days here, felt very safe, and plan to return for a more extensive visit to discover more of this gem of a nation. WebThere are so many breathtakingly beautiful islands accessible by boat from Cartagena, and a beach day to the islands is a popular day trip for locals and tourists alike! This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. From may to november we experience raining season being october the rainiest month. In these days of COVID-19, it is very handy to have your own approved-for-return-to-the-U.S. testing kits (bring more than you need). Dont make this mistake. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Bus Ticket in Cartagena and TransCaribe ( massive state transportation system ) is 2.000COP each way (less than US$1).



Stroll along on the city walls. Arguably, the best time to visit Cartagena is between December and March, when the temperatures arent as hot and humidity is lower. If you are looking for budget meals, there are many restaurants in Colombia that offer Menu del dia (Meal of the day). The most popular time to visit this coastal city is December to April when there is little to no rain but expect the beaches to be crowded. Not only are tourists beginning to arrive, but with its temperate coastal climate, very reasonable cost of living, and vastly improved security, today Colombia is a magnet for Americans looking for a place to retire. The best things to do in Cartagena in Colombia include beautiful sunsets, historic fortresses, colorful streets, free museums and impressive monuments. Playa Blanca, in Isla Baru, and the Islas del Rosario Archipelago, will easily match your idea of Caribbean paradise. Cartagena is the city with most touristic traffic -both local and outlanders in Colombia. Whereas, on the coast, the weather is hot and humid. For instance, the weather in Zona Cafetero is mostly wet and evenings and morning are cool. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Even businesses, doctors, and dentists will display their WhatsApp numbers. Entry into the airport terminal in Cartagena is strictly controlled. We were asked so many times if we werent scared to travel around South America for 5 months. Nepal has a We use cookies to optimize our website. And, if you're arriving during any of our rainier seasons (e.g., July, October), maybe bring a light rain jacket too.

Here, we mention all our favorite spots and things to do in Colombia. No matter how traveling in a foreign country can be challenging, we have one important announcement So, a box of cereal for $21,000 COP is about $7 USD. You need to take buses, flights, and even boat rides at times. Its dirty picture trash and cigarette butts and the last thing youll want to do is putting your feet in the sand; crowded; and there are so many vendors that instead of relaxing in the sun, youll spend your time thanking them and saying you really dont want to buy ceviche, or drugs, or whatever. You will need an internet connection and also video capability to communicate during the testing process so a laptop/iPad or good cellphone is a must. After 37 years in chemical manufacturing, Chris started chapter two pursuing his love of travel and photography and sharing it through illustrated travel articles. Swap the beaches of Cartagena for something more exotic. Instead, there are taxis everywhere. Main Since I was little I always wanted to see the world. Assistance for U.S. Citizens U.S. Embassy Bogota Calle 24 Bis No. Since I was little I always wanted to see the world. If you are visiting Colombia, and thinking flip flops and a tank top, then you will have a problem. We watched it while we traveled around Colombia. Although the city is on the Caribbean coast, and it does have long stretches of beach, the beaches of Cartagena Cartagena is a must-see. Click "Change preferences" to only activate functional cookies. WebCartagena was plagued by pirates and corsairs in colonial times. Iguazu Falls, Argentina: All You Need to Know & Why Avoid Holidays, Travel Itinerary: 20 Easy Tips How To Plan The Perfect Trip. WebThings to know before you go to Cartagena Colombia. If you decide to spend an extra day in the city, you can even push yourself beyond the limits of the old city and visit the Convento de la Popa for impressive views; and the Mercado de Bazurto, a beautifully local market. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The clothes you will need obviously depend on the weather but since the climate is relatively consistent year round, you will need some essentials no matter when you travel. Dont believe them! Once in Colombia, you will be always viewed as a tourist. Dont let its recent past history deter you from discovering this gem of a nation. We loved the atmosphere of each region in Colombia. There are few SUVs or F-150s here. Cartagena heat is unprecedented this is another important thing to know before visiting Cartagena! If you are traveling to Colombia, knowing certain things will make your life much easier. The best provider in the country is by far Claro, and you can opt for the basic Prepago fcil plan. There are several good ones you can consider, such as this one. You do not need to present a vaccination certificate when you travel to Cartagena. Or, if they do, you're prepared to pay them. At least that is how the story goes. Make sure to read my posts about other Colombia destinations: Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "ac9e81ba73ab5cab04ad53e18bb51295" );document.getElementById("bf5f1d039c").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Plaza Aduana the biggest plaza in Cartagena, built in 1849. Anyways, do not get offended by the term, locals usually do not mean it in a negative way. So depending on what region you are visiting, your clothes needs to adapt as well. It will be listed on your receipt as IVA. You can be reimbursed for this tax. For instance, in big cities, we were warned not to walk in certain neighborhoods and to watch out for our belongings. Taxis in the city dont work on a meter system, but rely on set of zone rates so in theory you should know how much you will be charged before getting on. The nice beaches with white sand and turquoise water are in Baru and the Rosario Islands Nat Park. You should also read my post 19 Best Beaches In Colombia. The city of Cartegena is a favorite among visitors to Colombia looking to get their feet wet in the South American country. If youre traveling in the Andes, 200 km can take up to six hours. My goal is to provide you with some helpful information and tools to inspire you and your family to discover a new place and create your own memories! We are Gigi & Nico and we are here to help you to plan your next awesome holiday. It is because the buses cannot go fast, as its dangerous, and there are many curves. Passengers have to show their departure details before being allowed to enter no more than 3 hours before Most vendors are located at the beaches of Bocagrande, Laguito and Playa Blanca; we are very sure you gonna find different prices from each vendor and please never accept nothing for free, we can asure you it will cost you more, for that you should alway agree on price before taking or accepting any product or service from any vendor. You will also have to stretch your budget to get a room with air conditioning so that you can rest decently at night. This can be uncomfortable or unpleasant for visitors. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. In Cartagena, that square is You can easily get there independently or on a guided day trip such as this one. Cartagenas becoming an excellent alternative to the popular Caribbean islands, but much of the city is still unknown amongst the majority of the world. Bus Tours. Lets go exploring! The most I honestly do not even know if there are car rental places here or what it would take to actually rent a car. The United States Embassy in Colombia even issued an alert in November 2021 advising citizens to be careful traveling to Cartagena due to high levels of crime.. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. It is the form of communication. However, before visiting Nepal, there are some things you should know to ensure that your trip is enjoyable and stress-free. If you are visiting the region Zona de Cafetero, make sure to join a coffee tour. So, if you have made a large purchase here, perhaps jewelry, it may be worth your time to visit the desk and fill out the form. READ MORE: THE BEST PHOTO SPOTS IN CARTAGENA AND THINGS TO DO. There are amazing things to see and do out here. Speaking of pesos, you'll need some. Gretka. Flying with Us. Already on our first day, we had problems with communication. Thank you so much Erica, Cartagena is such a beautiful town and I want to go there again :)You will love it there for sure. Plus, make sure that your credit card will actually work in Colombia. Cartagena, like many tropical tourist towns, has a plaza where both people and pigeons love to gather. Cartagena is notorious for its street vendors and beach vendors. Colombia is the land of bargain and Cartagena is not the exception, being such a touristic city, local vendors take advantage on increasing their prices to those who seem more gringos :D and even more if they dont speak any spanish; so it is all about your attitude and ability to negotiate. Not only that the best rooms at reasonable prices are the first to be booked out, so as soon as you have set your dates for your trip to Cartagena, start looking for a place to stay. This video features some do's and dont's you need to know before you go to Cartagena Colombia. The weather in each part of Colombia is different and has various climates. They have discovered the beauty and history of Colombia and know they are onto a winner. Cartagenas climate is similarly constant but with temperatures about 10 degrees higher. They also have money exchanges in the airport when you arrive to exchange your countrys currency. The cellular companies here such as Tigo, Movistar, and Claro also have pay-as-you-go plans where you can change out your SIM card while you're here to one of theirs. For a more detailed list of things to do in Cartagena, head over to this post. The most popular empanadas have meat or potato filings. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Again, make sure to know the local currency. Im not sure about you, but I love to get unique souvenirs from each country. 14. So, when you get in one, be prepared for a potentially wild ride with no seat belts.

Cartagena or Cali are great places to spice up your dance moves. And Visas are not required to travel here from the States. A taxi may come in handy occasionally. Check to see if you need a visa to enter Colombia. For some travelers (especially if you'll be traveling to jungle regions) they recommend Hepatitis B, Malaria, Rabies, and Yellow Fever. You do not need the exact address, just the name of the hotel and its general location is fine (e.g., Casa Eva in El Centro). The primary concern for most visitors planning a trip to Cartagena is the elevated crime rate. First, walk around the market to get an idea of how much things cost. Also, you will very likely pay higher prices for accommodation. Although prices are cheap (a 3-mile trip into Cartagenas old town was $3) negotiation is usual and expected. It is a tropical location and we live near the equator, so expect humidity and heat. March 2020 at 17:21.