The Centro is a very walkable part of the city. If you are staying in the area you should not need to take cabs or Ubers. However, Ubers are readily available and a taxi to go anywhere should not cost more than 5-10 USD.
While most places in Cartagena accept credit cards, you will need cash for taxis (if not using Uber) and to purchase items from street vendors and mom-and-pop shops. We recommend getting cash at Bancolombia ATM machines throughout the city. The fees are significantly less than those at the airport and most exchange houses in the walled city.
Most restaurants include a 10% service fee already included in the bill. If you feel like someone did an exceptional job you are more than welcome to tip additional, however it is usually included in the bill. The average tip is about 10%.
Cartegena is generally quite safe, especially in these neighborhoods. However, there are many tourists, and petty crime exists. There is a local saying “no dar papaya” which translates to “don’t give papaya”. Don’t make things tempting. Avoid wearing expensive watches & jewelry and displaying pricy electronics.
We are arranging a day trip to a local beach club. Cartagena has some of the most beautiful beaches, however, they require about a 45 minute boat ride. The beach club we are visiting is closer to the city about 15 minutes. We DO NOT recommend going to the local beaches in the city. You will get harassed by vendors and there is a lot of construction going on in the area.
It is best to drink bottled in Cartagena. Everywhere you go if you request water you will be served bottled water. If you buy street food avoid something made in water like juices and fruit.
Please pack plenty of sunscreen. Cartagena is about 85-90 degrees year round and the sun is no joke. It is also humid and unlike the USA, air is not blasting as soon as you go indoors. Please pack light breathable clothes. Make sure you are packing bug spray for the beach and wandering around the city.