FAQs

Question

Why Cartagena?

Answer

We are proud of Cindy’s Colombian heritage and wish to share its richness and vibrancy with our loved ones by choosing Cartagena as our wedding destination. Cartagena offers a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the culture, music, and traditions of Colombia, creating unforgettable memories for all. Moreover, Cartagena's UNESCO World Heritage Site status guarantees a breathtaking setting steeped in history and architectural wonders, ensuring our wedding is a truly unforgettable experience. With its enchanting cobblestone streets, stunning beaches, and lively atmosphere, Cartagena promises to provide the perfect backdrop for our special day, blending culture, romance, and celebration in a way that is truly unparalleled. The compact size of the Old City makes it easy to walk from one end to the other in just 20 minutes, and many of the main historical sites are located in the South West of the Old City.

Question

Is Cartagena safe?

Answer

The walled city and areas frequented by tourists are very safe, however, as in any major city, be aware of your surroundings and belongings. Please leave all valuables, passports, large sums of cash including sentimental jewelry pieces at home or in a hotel safe if you will be touring the city streets or going to the beach. If you run into any trouble here are some emergency numbers: National Emergency Number: 123 Information: 113 U.S. Embassy in Colombia: (+57) (1) 275-2000

Question

What is the "old city?"

Answer

Cartagena's "Old City" or “Ciudad Vieja” also known as the "Walled City" or “Ciudad Amurallada” is a small piece of beautiful land surrounded by a colonial walled fortress. It is the best-preserved colonial city in Latin America, and where all the wedding events will take place. Each of the events are walking distance from each other and all of our recommended hotels.

Question

Do I need a visa to travel to Colombia?

Answer

If you have a US passport, you can travel as a tourist for up to 90 days without a visa. Please remember that the expiration date on your passport must be at least 6 months away from your planned departure from the United States.

Question

No hablo Español... What do I do?

Answer

Relax, brother! That's what the locals might say. Cartagena is a city used to visitors from all over the world. Start practicing simple and useful travel phrases or download a translating app, if you want to impress. You will need to practice your Spanish with the street vendors, but many inside the walled city speak English.

Question

Where should I fly into?

Answer

CTG is Cartagena's international airport with daily international flights from most major US cities. Popular carriers are Jetblue, Copa Airlines, American Airlines and Avianca. For the best rates, we advise you to set travel alerts and book as soon as possible.

Question

Are Taxi's safe? What is the best way to get around?

Answer

Taxis are generally safe to hail from all major landmarks and most have set fares for popular destinations. Pro tip: As with all taxis, please confirm the fare before getting in and accepting a ride. In our opinion, Uber is the best way to get around in Cartagena. Rates can range between $2 to $7 depending on how far you need to go. No need to rent a car! Parking inside the walled city is very limited so you will not need a car and all of the wedding activities will be within walking distance from our suggested options inside the walled city.

Question

What is the currency in Colombia?

Answer

The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP). The US dollar goes far! The value of the US Dollar fluctuates daily. $1 US Dollar can equal between $3.500.00 - $4.000.00 COP. To do a quick conversion: Ex: A beer is listed at $11.000.00 COP. Remove the zeros: 11. Divide by 4 (exchange rate). 11 ÷ 4 = 2.75. Therefore, the $11.000.00 COP is equal to $2.75 USD. Ex: A massage is listed at $150.000.00 COP. Remove the zeros: 150. Divide by 4 (exchange rate). 150 ÷ 4 = 37.5. Therefore, the $150.000.00 COP is equal to $37.50 USD. We recommend checking the Google currency converter or downloading the My Currency Converter & Rates app for conversions and seeing current exchange rates.

Question

Do I need cash in Cartagena?

Answer

While most places accept credit cards, you will need cash if you plan to use Transporation services (e.g., a taxi) or purchase items from street vendors or smaller shops. City taxis do not take cards. You can exchange USD for Colombian pesos at your bank in the U.S., at the airport (steeper exchange fees), at a bank in Colombia, or any ATM machines inside the walled city (this is what we do), but there may be a $ limit for withdrawals.

Question

Do I need to tip?

Answer

A 10% suggested tip or service fee is already added to most bills. This tip is suggested or voluntary and in most cases is more than sufficient, but you can add an additional tip if service was extraordinary. Pro tip: if you want to take photos with the 'mulatas' in cultural wear that you may see along the street, this is not free! They will expect a cash tip. Around $5.000 to $10.000 COP is what we recommend.

Question

What is the weather like in Cartagena?

Answer

March in Cartagena is very tropical. Highs will range from the mid to high 80s. The sun is extra spicy so pack that sunscreen! And if mosquitos love you a little too much, don't forget the bug spray.

Question

What is Cartagena's time zone?

Answer

Cartagena usually follows the Eastern Time Zone except there is no daylight savings time. Daylight savings is March 9, 2025, the day of the wedding, which means the clock will spring forward when you get back home.

Question

Can I eat the street food and drink the water?

Answer

Street food is a great way to see and taste your way through Cartagena. Just be aware of how the vendors are preparing food or if any ingredients have been sitting out in the sun. Also, it's best to stick to bottled water versus tap water. When you go out to eat at a restaurant you may be asked if you would like water "con gas" (sparkling) or "sin gas" (still).

Question

Can I use my cell phone in Cartagena?

Answer

Most U.S. cell phone companies, will charge you to use your phone abroad. AT&T and Verizon have a $10/day travel pass to call, text, use google, maps, and social media. Call or go online to see what your cell phone company offers. Please remember that cell phones are a valuable item, so always be aware of your surroundings when using them, especially if you're outside the walled city.

Question

What's up with all the rappers and street vendors?

Answer

Street vendors can be a bit pushy and very persistent so be prepared to negotiate if you are ready to buy a souvenir or simply just keep walking and say "no gracias." Don't be afraid to be firm. BEWARE of the rappers... They are harmless, but they might try to get some pesos from you by dropping some sick beats tailored 'just for you'. Just simply walk away and say "no gracias."

Question

Are children invited?

Answer

While we love all the little ones, due to capacity restraints, this is an adults-only affair. Mom and Dad get ready to party!

Question

Can I bring a plus one?

Answer

Unfortunately, we have a strict guest list to stay on budget. Our celebration is strictly RSVP only. We will only be able to accommodate those listed on your wedding invitation.

Question

Will the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception take place indoors or outdoors?

Answer

The ceremony will be indoors at Iglesia de Santo Toribio (Catholic Church), which has air conditioning. The cocktail hour and reception will both be fully outdoors under shade at Institución Universitaria Bellas Artes.

Question

Is there a dress code?

Answer

Feel free to bring all your beach and tropical destination clothes for your time here leading up to the wedding. Colombians love to dress to impress! So do not be afraid to pack your fanciest suit or long gown for the event. The wedding will be semi-formal attire. The weather will be hot, so for men, wear breathable formal attire for the ceremony and reception. This means linen if you have it! Rather than going out to buy a linen suit, we recommend a Guayabera, a traditional, formal shirt worn by men at many formal events in Latin America. For women, midi or floor length dresses are recommended for the ceremony and reception. Think lively colors and fun prints.

Question

Have you booked hotel room blocks for guests?

Answer

We do not have rooms blocked off at any hotels. However, we did receive discounted rates for certain hotels. For information about hotels and discounted rates, please visit the Travel/Viaje page of this website. Since many of the hotels in the walled city are renovated colonial era homes, many only have around 15-20 rooms. Book early!

Question

What's the best way to RSVP and when is the deadline?

Answer

Please RSVP via this website. The deadline for doing so is November 1, 2024.

Question

Where are you registered for gifts?

Answer

Your presence at our wedding is the only gift we are asking for, other gifts are not required or expected! We recognize the cost associated with your attendance and encourage you to treat this adventure with us as your vacation. If you insist on a giving a gift, please refer to the Registry section of this website.

Question

I have a question not listed here, what should I do?

Answer

Please contact Cindy or Garrett (please note Garrett's Español is muy mal).