The beautiful walled city of Cartagena sparkles in the sunshine on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Famous for its castles, culture, history and vibrantly colourful buildings, it is full of life and an absolute must-see and experience city. Colombia itself is awash with fabulous young new designers in fashion, ceramics and textiles so make sure you take several extra suitcases or preferably a huge trunk to bring back your discovered treasures!
Taste
With over 200 stunningly picturesque streets, it is made for walking, photographing (an Insta dream) and discovering local delicacies. Our favourites include Maria, a fabulously decorated restaurant with delicious local seafood and cocktails to die for; Alma (Casa San Agustin hotel) and of course, the 1950s institution La Vitrola, where it feels like an Italian speakeasy at night.
Experience
For a cosy, luxury boutique experience - stay at the Casa San Agustin or San Pedro, both with lovely pools to cool off. After salivating at the local artisan pieces lining streets in the city, head straight to St Dom. Cartagena's hottest concept-fashion boutique where you will need another suitcase (at least). Then definitely do a walking tour of this beautiful city - try Cartagena Connections. And if the heat gets too much and beach-side cocktails are calling, just hire a boat and sail to Coralina Island in the Islas del Rosario for ice-cold margaritas
Read
Be transported....and read Gabriel García Márquez's Love in the Time of Cholera and Other Demons. Márquez, one of the most imaginative writers of the modern era, was inspired by Cartagena, so the books are a must-read!
Listen
Make a beeline to Café Havana, with its live salsa bands and Bazurto Social Club, a swinging venue with regular performances by live champeta groups. If just want to get into the mood before flying, check out: Cartagena! Curro Fuentes & The Big Band Cumbia and Descarga Sound Of Colombia 1962 - 72
