INFO

Question

Covid 19 Protocol??

Answer

See U.S. Embassy's Colombia website for most up to date information: https://co.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ You can also find information here: https://co.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/security-and-travel-information/ YES, we will have someone administering instant Covid tests at the Casa de Alba so that you will have a 3 day current test to get back on your plane to the US. They will be there Saturday and Sunday so if you plan to stay as they require them within 72 hours before your flight. The cost is approx. $65 per person for the 4 hr instant test. CDC requirements for Re-entry to US: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html

Question

Requirements for Entry To Colombia and the US (see links for more info)

Answer

Are PCR and/or antigen tests available for U.S. citizens in Colombia? Yes If so, are test results reliably available within 72 hours? Yes  Entry and Exit Requirements : Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter? Yes Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes  The Ministry of Health announced that all inbound international passengers must have a negative COVID-19 test result. Travelers arriving to Colombia must present negative results from a COVID-19 PCR test administered no more than 96 hours prior to departure.

Question

What is the food like in Cartagena?

Answer

Check this link: https://www.cartagenaconnections.com/blog/cartagena-food-top-local-dishes-to-try. Don't worry they have a Hard Rock Cafe if you get culture shock with the delicious Caribbean food. We personally love the fried fish, fried plantains, coconut rice with raisins and the fresh fruit juices of Colombia. The food is delicious and very reasonable. There is a wonderful Peruvian food scene as well. We highly recommend that you experience as much of the local cuisine of Cartagena as you can handle! you must try the ceviche, arepas con huevo, carne and queso, fried fish, coconut rice, fried plantains (patacones), fish soup, lots of exotic homemade candies, all the fruits (soooo many fruits), etc..

Question

What are some great restaurants to eat at?

Answer

Check out this list: https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/cartagena-colombia-must-visit-restaurant-guide Our top choices: Crepes & Waffles!, Cande, Maria, Alma, La Chevecheria (Bourdain went here), Bohemia, Marea, La Perla, Vera (Italian), Andres Cartagena (bomb steakhouse), Cuzco Cocina Peruana (Peruvian food is where it's at). Check out: El Arsenal (The Rum Box), Cafe del Mural.

Question

What is the weather like in July in Cartagena?

Answer

The temps are in the high 80's - 89 degrees on average and there is an average of 3.8 inches of rainfall in the month of July. Low temps are in the high 70's - 78 degrees average at night. Very Mediterranean and slightly humid.

Question

What are the best beaches in Cartagena?

Answer

The best beaches are definitely in the islands south of Cartagena. Punta Arena in Tierra Bomba. Punta Arena beach is located on Tierra Bomba island, which is right in front of the beaches of Castillogrande. ... Playa Blanca in Baru. The best beach in Cartagena is located only 40 minutes by boat or by land from Cartagena. ... Castillogrande Beach. ... La Boquilla Beach. ... Manzanillo del Mar Beach.

Question

Safety tips?

Answer

1. We like to keep our valuables on our person like passports and wallets. 2. Do not flash large stacks of cash in front of people on the streets. 3. People will approach you and ask for money. There are scammers and street vendors who will solicit you and make you give them money. For example giving directions and then charging you OR offering to take pictures and charging you. They will try to sell you items all day long on the beach and services like massages and charge you a lot of money. Tell them to go away and be stern. 4. We hear that Uber is very bad and long waits. We suggest arranging transport with your hotel. Use reliable folks and if you get a good driver, get their number and use them often. 5. Do not walk on the wall at night. 6. If going on a tour book through a reputable agency, do not be solicited by street vendors. 7. Since this is a large tourist area people will charge you more because you are a tourist. Use the term "muy caro". Very expensive.

Question

Who is staying at the Casa de Alba with the bride and groom?

Answer

We are inviting the wedding party members and close family to stay with us at the House. You will need to RSVP please. We have rented the entire villa for both Friday and Saturday night. This is an all inclusive deal with food, drinks, breakfast, lunch and dinner for everyone staying there. The villa sleeps 30 but also has rooms with multiple beds and shared bathrooms. We chose it because it has a large event space. Feel free to inquire about staying in the house with us as we may have extra beds and would like to fill the house with our guests.

Question

Will there be an open bar for the events?

Answer

ABSOLUTELY, WE HAVE YOU COVERED! Both nights we will provide all food, entertainment and beverages! There will even be an entire beverage menu for you to choose from. Thanks for coming and sharing in our special day.

Question

What is the currency exchange rate for USD to Colombian Pesos?

Answer

one US dollar is worth around $3,459 Colombian pesos right now. This does change frequently so keep up on it. Exchange rates vary also depending on who you cash in with. Exchanging at the airport will give you the lowest value for your money.

Question

Mosquitos?

Answer

Bring mosquito repellent and use it. Not so bad in the city but definitely on the beach or islands.