FAQs

Question

Do I need to speak Spanish to travel to Cartagena?

Answer

Of course not! It is easy to download a translation app before going to use while there. Many apps do not require cell phone service in order to be used.

Question

Is Cartagena a safe city?

Answer

Yes! Cartagena is very safe for tourists and you will see many police officers out on the streets. Like any other city though, it’s recommended to keep close watch on your purse when walking and not wear any flashy jewelry.

Question

Do I need a Visa to enter Colombia?

Answer

Nope. No visa is needed for people coming from USA if staying less than 90 days.

Question

How do I exchange money and when?

Answer

Mel and Chris recommend exchanging between $50- $100 USD at the Cartagena airport to use for initial taxi and food. The exchange place is located right after you get your luggage and before you leave the airport. However, the exchange rate in the middle of Cartagena is better and you will get more pesos for your dollar. Once you get settled into your hotel you can walk around to find exchange places and can exchange more at a time. We recommend downloading the app called “Currency” (its green) to keep on your phone to help with quick conversion from Colombian pesos to USD.

Question

How much should a taxi cost from the airport to my hotel in old town Cartagena?

Answer

A taxi from the airport to anywhere in old town Cartagena should cost about $15,000 Colombian pesos, which is equivalent to about $4 USD dollars.

Question

How should I get around Cartagena?

Answer

Every place within the old walls of Cartagena is easily walkable. Otherwise yellow taxis are cheap when getting around Cartagena. You can catch one by either flagging one down on street or asking your hotel to call one for you. Always ask the driver before getting in the car how much the ride will be to your destination to avoid getting an unfair price at the end.

Question

Can I use my credit card?

Answer

It depends. At large stores and restaurants they will likely have a credit card machine. However, small and local shops will probably not. Make sure you check your credit card details to ensure an extra "exchange fee" doesn't show up after you purchase.

Question

Do I tip at restaurants in Cartagena?

Answer

Yes, people usually tip 10% in Cartagena at restaurants. For taxis or cafés people usually just leave their change. (Just round up to the closest peso and give them that)

Question

How many days should I stay in Cartagena for?

Answer

Usually 3 or 4 days is enough time to see all of Cartagena. Stay for our wedding festivities (Tuesday- Thursday) and then come with us to Isla Barú on Saturday ;) Otherwise head over to Rosario Islands, Medellín, or Bogota before or after the wedding!

Question

What will the climate/temperature be like in August?

Answer

It will be HOT! Make sure you pack breathable clothing and stay hydrated while there. Cartagena has the same temperature all year round due to the proximity of the equator.

Question

Is there air conditioning in the hotels?

Answer

YES! Air conditioning is available throughout the whole city. Our wedding venues for ceremony and reception have it too.

Question

Is it safe to drink the water in Cartagena?

Answer

Although the water is considered to be safe, it will likely upset your stomach if coming from the USA. We recommend buying water bottles from the grocery store or corner store for your hotel room. They are cheap.

Question

Who are the colorful ladies with fruit on their heads walking around?

Answer

Those ladies are called Palenqueras. The history of the palenqueras ranges from tragedy to triumph. Descended from African slaves brought over during Spanish colonial rule, the ancestors of the present-day palenqueras escaped slavery to create their own settlement. They would come to Cartagena from their small town to sell their produce. Today they are all around the city for tourists to take photos. Just know the photos are not free. Make sure you tip them or they will chase you until you do!