So it’s been a couple of weeks since my trip to Cartagena but I can’t stop looking at my photos because that place was so incredible. Everywhere you turn, there’s a spot for that perfect picture. The colors, the art, the people, the vibe, it’s just all so beautiful to capture. Cartagena can be explored and experienced in two to three full days so I would consider that before booking here. Take advantage of the beach resorts close by or the ever talked about Medellin. Will definitely have to make it there soon!
WHERE TO STAY:
AirBnB- There are adorable and super cute Airbnb’s in this town. I did travel with 5 other girls so we lucked out on a space right in the middle of the city and a breathtaking view. I would recommend getting an Airbnb where you can get around town easily by foot.
Hotels- Cartagena has some of the most amazing hotels I’ve ever seen. It reminded me of Miami with a touch of Tulum. I went inside so many hotels to check out the space and I couldn’t pick a main favorite. Here below are some of my tops.
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK:
Cuba 1940– This place was so much fun. Not only do they have live music playing but they also have a pool in the middle of the restaurant which gives it that cool little touch. The decor is also on point and the staff is incredibly nice. If you are a passionfruit lover/addict like myself, order the Passionfruit mojito. It was deliciosooooo.
Cafe Del Mar– You will read and hear people talk about this place non stop. It’s incredible sea views and dope vibe is very popular among tourists. You definitely want to try to make it here before dinner or at least give yourself some time to get a table and take it all in. Hopefully you catch a sweet sunset like we did. It was that moment here where I realized how fortunate and blessed I am to experience travel and moments like these.
Interno– This restaurant can have a blog on itself because it was one of the coolest experiences I’ll always remember. From the pink walls and palm decor, this Michelin-starred restaurant is making a difference. Interno is in the women’s prison of Cartagena and the inmates are taught to cook by Colombian celebrity chefs. The food was good, not amazing but definitely so glad I had the opportunity to experience this because it was eye opening. We had the chance to speak to some of the women and they were so kind and open to speak with us about their experience and life situation. This restaurant has helped dozens of inmates learn skills designed to aid reintegration into society. I definitely recommend putting this on your to do list when here. It’s something you won’t regret.
What to See and Do
Explore the Town | Definitely take one day to explore the whole entire city. Make time to try some of the best coffee of your life. Stop at the cute cafe’s in every corner and buy some to take some home with you. Make sure to shop around. You’ll want to take everything back home! From beautiful homemade bags and shoes, to never ending turquoise and jewelry, unique home decor, and the list goes on. This whole entire city is so vibrant and colorful and full of life. I definitely got inspired for some future Yemaya designs. Take pictures with the fruit ladies, dance on the street, take a carriage ride, try the amazing fruit sold on the street, stop in a cerveza shop for a beer break. Make sure to make your way to Getsemani. It’s one of the coolest little sections of the city and one of my favorite neighborhoods. You’ll see the cutest shops, restaurants, hotels and street art all through out these streets.
Travel to Playa Blanca in Isla Baru | There are plenty of ways to get there but we decided to take a bus for the transportation which included food. It is a crowded known beach but there are low key sections as well. Just make sure to talk to your driver about that beforehand. This beach does have white sand and crystal green waters so it’s definitely worth seeing. Best tip I can give you is…. bring your own drinks and snacks because everything on the island is triple the price and there’s not much to pick from.
Travel to the Pink Salt Sea | Must, must, must see this. I told all the girls on the trip that I’m not leaving Cartagena until I see this pink sea with my own eyes. It’s been on my bucket list for a while so when I showed the girls pics of this place they were quickly on board too. Getting there is a bit difficult but we had the coolest driver that we met previously that ended up driving us the whole day to a couple of well known places for a great price. Tip: If you find a good reliable driver, get his contact and keep him for the rest of your trip. Salinas de Galerazamba is about 45 minutes outside of Cartagena in the middle of nowhere. Ubers can also take you there but I would recommend making sure your driver stays with you and takes you back because you won’t find Ubers for your way back. Literally the middle of nowhere. There is something super magical about stepping into pink salt water. Take your time to take pictures and take it all in.
My trip to Cartagena was full of culture, laughs and beautiful scenery. I’ve never been to such a charming beautiful place. Being from South America, I did feel at home or maybe it was the lovely and kind people of Cartagena that made me feel this way. All I know is that it’s a special place and definitely recommend for all the peoples to put it on their travel list. So happy I got to experience this country and it’s beauty. More pictures of the trip on IG @carlaloren
x, CP
