Natalia & Matthew
Cartagena and Colombia
A Brief History of Our Favourite City
Cartagena is a colonial city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. The historic walled city remains alongside the ultramodern skyscraper-filled Bocagrande. Cartagena is famous for its culture, history, and colorful buildings. The city was founded in 1533, by Spanish Commander Pedro de Heredia. The Spanish poured huge amounts of money into the city’s defenses, including the famed wall. At that time, the port was the largest in the Americas. In 1741 the Queen of England ordered invasions of every Spanish port in the Caribbean. After the invasion, the city fortified further, and rebuilt its defenses to become the most protected port in South America. Cartagena played a significant role in Colombia gaining its independence - in 1811 it was the first city to declare independence from Spain. Today, Cartagena has rapidly expanded and is now home to over 1 million people. Despite all these changes the Walled City remains unchanged, with its colonial architecture and historic buildings preserved.
Explore The Old City
You’ll find tons of colorful colonial architecture, flowers, artists, and plenty of street vendors (the best street vendors you will find are around the Cartagena Cathedral — Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría de Cartagena de Indias — on Calle 34.) Be sure to check out the Torre del Reloj, the historically important and monument-filled Plaza Aduana, the vibrant Plaza Santo Domingo with its Botero statue, the leafy green Plaza Bolivar that’s frequently filled with dancers and performers, and Plaza de los Coches where you’re sure to experience an authentic night in Cartagena. While you’re out exploring, make sure to check out The Palace of Inquisition, The Gold Museum, and the Church of Santo Toribo. If you are interested in a walking tour, there are many listed through Trip Advisor or you can ask your hotel to set one up!
The Islands of Cartagena
There are several stunning islands just off the coast of Cartagena in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. We plan on visiting one of them as a group on the Wednesday before the wedding, however, you can also stay the night on them, if you have time! Playa Blanca is undoubtedly one of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches. Located on Baru island, it is 45 minutes by boat from Cartagena port, or around a two-hour car journey from the main city. Crystal-clear waters lap the perfectly white sand and visitors have the option to spend a day relaxing on this incredible beach or, should that not be enough, you can also stay over night.
Casa en el Agua
Casa en el Agua is a hostel built on a reef in the middle of the Caribbean ocean and a perfect spot to switch off for a couple of days. No wifi, intermittent electricity, this is the perfect place to detox and enjoy the moment. Local fishermen drop off the catch each day that is turned into delicious meals, various water based activities are on offer as well as trips to nearby islands - or just swing in a hammock with your book! Note: this is a hostel and is perhaps more suitable for the younger travellers and not our older, more discerning guests.
Bogota
Ten million people call vibrant, passionate, sprawling Bogota home. The energy of this metropolitan heart of Colombia is in part fueled by its hundreds of eclectic and authentic dining hot spots, fantastic wines, and frequent foodie festivals. Ask the locals where they like to eat, then walk off your empanadas and aji with a stroll through the historic district of La Candelaria or during an indulgent shopping adventure on the North Side. Flights arrive from London daily and we would suggest a day or two exploring the city, you don't need much more than this to see the main sites.
Medellín
Medellin has been transformed in recent decades and is now one of Latin America's most vibrant cities. Medellin rises proudly from the belly of the Aburrá Valley, and its natural beauty makes a perfect setting for hiking, zip lining and horseback riding. Travel through lush jungle to Piedra de Penol, then climb the 740 steps to the top—a journey within a journey that rewards you with unforgettable views.
Santa Marta
The oldest city in Colombia, romantic Santa Marta is fringed by beautiful beaches and the stunning mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta range. Ancient ruins take cover in the lush mangrove forests of Tayrona National Park, the perfect spot for a day hike. Snorkel along vibrant reefs, then make your way to a café for a multicultural meal that incorporates the flavors of Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe. When the sun goes down, the nightlife kicks up its heels in the bars and discos of the Parque de Los Novios.
Alma
Beautiful upscale restaurant in the Old City. Alma serves as a restaurant and a centerpiece of Casa San Agustin, where fashionable locals and guests share a passion to enjoy the cuisine of coastal Colombian cuisine amidst a vibrant environment.
Baruco by Cuzco
Trendy Peruvian restaurant and bar with live band and great atmosphere. Portions are more than generous, so we suggest sharing a starter!
Restaurante Celele by Proyecto Caribe Lab
One of Latin America's Top 50 restaurants serving dishes inspired by the surrounding Caribbean area - head here for a complete Latin American gourmet experience.
Restaurante La Unica Cartagena
Mexican food with a difference. The menu evolves around the best cuts of beef cooked on a 'parilla' (BBQ + Grill). When ordering steak in Latin America it's best to order 'medio' (medium)... anything rarer normally comes out moo-ing.
Mar y Zielo Gastro Bar
Two restaurants in one. Opt for the Terraza (Terrace) for great views over the Cathedral and a sharing menu consisting of Colombian style Sushi (it's to die for). Downstairs is fine dining and therefore more expensive, however, the Pulpo Risotto (Octopus) is Matt's favourite meal in Cartagena...
Mistura Cartagena
The best Latin-Sushi fusion in Cartagena (there are a lot). Menu probably more suited to lunch.