FAQs
Question
Is Cartagena safe?
Answer
Let me reassure you right away: yes. Cartagena de Indias is very touristy and therefore quite safe. But that’s not a reason to let your guard down completely. If there are lots of people around, it's safe to walk. Otherwise at night, I would take a taxi if walking far. See below for tips, and things to look out for.
Question
What do I need to look out for to stay safe?
Answer
1. Nothing is ever free. Do not try "free" samples of anything including food or massages unless you want to pay. Don't let the street performers sing or play music for you because they will expect a tip. There will also be "palenqueras" (women dressed in colorful clothes and with a fruit basket on their heads) offering to take pictures with you, but they will expect a tip for doing so. 2. Watch out for pickpocketing. Don't keep anything in your pockets. I would suggest a small crossbody purse you can keep close to your body. Avoid backpacks, if possible. 3. Lock your valuables in the hotel safe in your room, just to be safe. 4. Always stay vigilant. No reason to be paranoid, but just be aware of your surroundings. 5. Take a taxi rather than walk too far at night. 6. Don't leave stuff unattended. 7. Don't flash your valuables, including expensive jewelry. 8. Pay with cash, when able, although credit card use is safe at all the well-established restaurants and stores.
Question
What is the best way to communicate with each other while in Cartagena?
Answer
I HIGHLY recommend everyone downloads WhatsApp for free communication via Wifi. You can use your phone number to create your free account, and it's an easy and popular way to communicate via wifi without using your phone cellular data. A lot of tours/businesses may require you to communicate with them through WhatsApp as well. Taylor and Sam's WhatsApp numbers are the same as their cellphones.
Question
Are kids welcome?
Answer
While we love you and your little ones dearly, we are limiting our guest list for the wedding and reception to adults only due venue restrictions. Thank you for understanding.
Question
What is the cheapest way to fly there?
Answer
Unfortunately, you'll likely be changing flights a time or two to get to Cartagena, but compared to other international flights, it's possible to make it affordable. I would suggest looking at direct flights to Cartagena (CTG) from Miami (first choice), Fort Lauderdale, or Atlanta, rather than from Detroit to Cartagena all in one booking (although you can try). Miami has several nonstop flights to Cartagena, but you'd just have to coordinate flying to Miami first. Full disclosure, we have flown Spirit before and it went okay, so that is an option! Avianca is also a great option.
Question
What is the weather in Cartagena in January?
Answer
Typically, high of 87 degrees F, low of 75 degrees F.
Question
What is transportation like?
Answer
We will try to arrange transport to/from the airport as well as the wedding for our guests, using https://alondraexpress.com. More details to come! Taxis are good options of getting from one place to the other, however, we recommend confirming the price before getting in. Remember, it will be in colombian pesos. Generally, things are at most a 10-minute taxi away. You wave them down as normal or approach ones sitting on the street.
Question
What is the conversion rate of colombian pesos to USD?
Answer
Currently 1 USD = 4.000 Colombian pesos, but it changes daily. The currency symbol is the “$”, just like in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Remember that the meaning of periods and commas in numbers is reverse of that in the USA. So $ 15.000, means fifteen-thousand Colombian pesos (about $3.88 USD). To find how much something costs in dollars just divide the amount (the price in pesos) by $4.00 COP or the Current exchange, (remember this change daily).
Question
How should I pay for food, drink, gifts, etc.?
Answer
US Dollars are generally not accepted. Majority of places accept credit cards, but not all, so I would make sure to have some colombian pesos on you at all times. Also, I would check if you have foreign transaction fees on your credit card ahead of time to avoid extra charges. In general, credit cards are best for larger purchases, and pesos for when you're bartering with the locals.
Question
Where can I exchange currency?
Answer
There are plenty of ATMs in Cartagena, but we recommend getting cash (colombian pesos) at the ATMs in the airport, as it will give you the best exchange rate. They are located in the back corner of the departures section at the Rafael Nunez International Airport. Getting cash directly from the currency exchange is NOT recommended, as it will be a worse rate. Other options closer to the hotels are: - Giros y Finanzas Casa de Cambio America - Centro Avenida Venezuela No. 8A-87 - Centro La Matuna - Avenida Venezuala No. 9-48
Question
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Answer
It helps but is not necessary to get around in Cartagena. All hotel concierges and most restaurant and bar staff speak English. I would also recommend downloading Google Translate to assist you if you run into trouble communicating with someone.
Question
Can I drink the water?
Answer
Yes, the tap water is safe to drink. You can err on the side of caution and drink bottled water when able, but you do NOT have to worry about ice in drinks or eating fruits or veggies at restaurants, because they use purified water for that. The tap water at hotels is safe for showering and brushing your teeth as well!
Question
How do I avoid street vendors?
Answer
The street vendors in Cartagena can be exhausting. They will see you from miles away trying to sell their products/services. Even if they annoy you, remember that they are not doing this for fun. You must act respectfully and firmly. If they see you hesitating or embarrassed, they will continue to talk to you. Suggestion: Look at them in the eyes and smile. Then, say “Está bien, gracias” or “No, gracias." Then go on your way without worrying about their answer. If you’re not comfortable saying no, you can try to ignore them as well.
Question
What is the time zone in Cartagena?
Answer
EST, same as Eastern United States!
Question
Do I need an adapter for electronics?
Answer
Nope. Colombia uses the same plugs and outlets than USA.
Question
Is there good internet in Cartagena?
Answer
Yes, many of the hotels offer WiFi. Unless you have an international plan, you should switch your cell phone to “airplane mode” to avoid any surprise charges for international roaming, texting, and/or data usage.