The enchanting Caribbean coastal city of Cartagena, just a direct flight away from the United States, holds a special place in the hearts of travelers. Much like Cancun is to Mexico, Cartagena stands as Colombia’s most popular destination for international visitors. This vibrant city buzzes with life, where women dressed in traditional garb eagerly await on the streets to pose for photos, adding a touch of authenticity to its highly commercialized charm.
The climate here is sultry and humid, with summer afternoons bringing downpour-filled skies. It’s not difficult to envision this passionate and uninhibited city as the perfect setting for a love story akin to *Love in the Time of Cholera*. Every corner seems to whisper tales of romance and adventure.
### **Cartagena Attractions**
**Walled City**: Step back in time within the ancient walls that encircle this historic gem. Here, you can still trace the echoes of the heroic city immortalized by García Márquez. The old town, compact enough to explore in an hour, boasts iconic landmarks such as the majestic Walls of Cartagena, the serene San Pedro Claver Church, the grand Plaza de Bolívar, and the picturesque Monumento Torre del Reloj square.
**Convento de Santa Cruz de la Popa**: Perched atop a hill outside the city, this spiritual sanctuary offers breathtaking views of the photogenic cross. As the sun dips below the horizon, watch in awe as it melts into the distant Caribbean Sea—a sight so mesmerizing it feels almost surreal.
**San Felipe de Barajas Fort**: Just a ten-minute taxi ride from the old town, this fortress is a must-visit. Be prepared for the unrelenting sun, as there’s no shade to shield you from its golden embrace.
### ** Bars/Restaurants**
**Café del Mar**: Perched along the ancient city wall, this open-air bar serves as the ultimate spot to witness the fiery hues of a Cartagena sunset. Savor a signature cocktail while letting the gentle evening breeze sweep you away into a world of romance.
**ALQUÍMICO**: Ranked among the top 50 bars globally in 2020, this hotspot draws crowds eager to revel in its magic. After dark, the old town transforms into a lively spectacle, with streets and alleys illuminated by vibrant lights and filled with the rhythm of music spilling out of bars.
### **Accommodation**
I chose to stay within the old town—a decision that brought both charm and challenge. While the area was undeniably safe, the nighttime revelry kept the streets buzzing until the early hours of the morning. At 4 AM, the partygoers were still in full swing, their laughter echoing through the narrow streets. The hotels themselves, housed in centuries-old buildings, added character but came with quirks—like my room’s roof leaking during the night.
### **A Photographer’s Paradise**
Cartagena is a dream for anyone who loves capturing beauty. Its cobblestone streets, painted in a kaleidoscope of colors, the striking cross perched high above the city, and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea create a canvas of endless possibilities. It’s no wonder this city has been likened to Colombia’s version of Lijiang, though its bustling commercial vibe sets it apart.
Despite visiting during South America’s winter, May in Cartagena felt hotter than Miami at the height of summer. The oppressive heat made outdoor activities tolerable only before 10 AM and after 5 PM. Braving the scorching midday sun proved nothing short of a trial—but one well worth enduring for the chance to experience this magical city.
