Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia is an old port city on the Caribbean coast. It’s a popular beach destination and about as photogenic as could be. It seemed to be one of those places where everyone we talked to either loved it or hated it. I found it to be charming and great place to visit with so much life and color everywhere I looked.

We stayed in Getsemani which is a neighborhood outside of the Old city but is was nice and quiet and really artsy. In the evenings tons of people gather around the church square hanging out, drinking, dancing, and eating the delicious street food.

There is a fantastic Arepa stand in Getsemani and right near there is a cafe called Stepping stone. They provide delicious food & drinks and support the community, which is always a big plus for me!

When walking towards the old city from Getsemani you can pass through a park and if you keep your eyes peeled you may see Iguanas, little monkeys and sloths climbing around in the trees!!

Once in the old city walls you can wander around endlessly admiring the colorful colonial buildings and stopping for a snack and drink here and there. You will also find the beautiful Palenqueras, fruit sellers carrying around the bowls of fruit on their heads. They will certainly pose for all the photos you want but don’t forget to tip.

By far one of the coolest thing to do is to head to the city walls for sunset & a beer. Just follow the sun and get there a bit early because it gets really crowded. Find a good spot, crack open a beer, sit back and watch the show. This was a magnificent way to relax after a day walking around.

If you want to try some amazing Ceviche and Paella after the sunset view be sure to head straight to La Cevicheria to put your name down on the waiting list. In 2008 Anthony Bourdain gave this place some well deserved publicity. I don’t think there is anything bad at this place and it satiated all my senses and let me feeling fat & happy.