FAQs

Question

Is Cartagena Safe?

Answer

If you've been watching the Netflix drama, Narcos, and you are worried that you may be kidnapped or asked to be a drug mule...don’t worry!! Cartagena is an incredibly safe city and the people are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet. You will be able to freely roam and enjoy the city on foot with no worries whatsoever. With that being said, there are a lot of street vendors which car be overwhelming. We do not recommend carrying your phone in your back pocket or counting your cash out on the street, as those are easy targets for pickpocketers. Just like traveling to any foreign country, you always want to be aware of your surroundings.

Question

COVID Protocols

Answer

Entering Colombia: You will need to fill out a migration form called "Check-Mig". Link here: https://apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/public/preregistro.jsf Leaving Colombia: All US Citizens will be required to show a negative COVID test to travel back to the US. You make take the test 72 hours prior to boarding your flight. Testing is performed at the Sofitel and costs $27.

Question

Do I need a travel VISA?

Answer

No but you do need a valid passport. Make sure your passports are valid 6 months POST travel, or they will not let you get on the plane. ***This means that your passport expiration date must be dated after January 31, 2023 To renew your US Passport - https://www.usa.gov/passport#item-34907

Question

Do I need to speak Spanish?

Answer

No! It helps, but is not necessary to get around in Cartagena. All hotel concierges and most restaurant and bar staff speak English.

Question

What is the weather like?

Answer

The daily high temperatures in Cartagena are around 87°F, rarely falling below 84°F or exceeding 90°F.

Question

What is the currency? Are US Dollars accepted?

Answer

The official currency of Cartagena is the Colombian Peso and the symbols are "$," "COP," or "COL$." The meaning of periods equate to a comma in US Dollars. Example: 15.000 = 15,000 COP or Colombian Pesos We recommend converting your money into COP with your local bank prior to your trip to get the best exchange rate. Give yourself at least 3 weeks for the transaction to take place. If not, you can convert money right at the Sofitel or at the airport.

Question

What about paying with credit card?

Answer

Credit cards are accepted in all major shops, hotels, and restaurants in Cartagena. As with many South American countries, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are the most commonly accepted credit cards in Colombia. To minimize inconvenience, tell your bank or card issuer that you’re going to be travelling abroad to Colombia and the dates you'll be traveling. This will stop them from freezing your card for potential fraud when you’re using it in Colombia. Most credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees, but we recommend double checking with your bank

Question

How does tipping work?

Answer

There is typically a 10% tip (service) added to your bill. If service was extraordinary, feel free to add some extra pesos. If not, you will not be offending anyone. If you sign up for any excursion or tour, we recommend you tip your guides

Question

How about phone/internet connection?

Answer

We recommend that you check with your cell phone provider regarding international data plans and roaming charges. If an international plan is not an option, you should turn off "cellular data" once you land to avoid any surprise charges for international roaming, texting, or data usage. All Hotels/Restaurants/Bars will offer complimentary WiFi. Once you arrive, ask them for the WiFi password to get connected to the outside world 😊 For Apple users, you can use iMessage and FaceTime while connected to a WiFi network for no charge.

Question

Do I need to bring electrical converters?

Answer

NO! If you are traveling from the US, you do NOT need an adapter to charge your electronics. Colombia has the following plug types - types A and B. Colombia operates on a 110V supply voltage and 60Hz.

Question

What is the timezone?

Answer

Eastern Standard Time

Question

When should I book my flight?

Answer

Historically, the perfect time to book is between 150 to 120 days out. You can track flights and prices on Google Flights and Hopper. Your flight should be between $350-$600. If you go on google flights, you can set price alerts for your preferred routes. Also, don't be afraid to get creative and book two one ways, or different airports of entry/departure. Sometimes, different airline one-ways can be cheaper than a round trip. If you have questions, ask me (Kim!) I am a flight guru 😊

Question

Are kids welcome?

Answer

All wedding events are adults only, however, if this poses an issue for you, please reach out to Kim or Felipe :)