Cartagena, a new jewel in the Caribbean
Cartagena, a new jewel in the Caribbean, has finally landed Colombia on the map as a safe, viable option for tourists.
Sitting on the northern coast of Colombia, Cartagena de Indias, as it is officially called, is a large seaport city with a population of approximately 1.2 million. In 1980 Cartagena was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The “old town” district of Cartagena is a beautiful Spanish Colonial walled city consisting of impresses fortresses, magnificent cathedrals, large plazas and quaint cobblestone streets lined with balconied homes. The more modern and wealthier district, Bocagrande is adorned with high-rise condos, hotels and an abundance of shops and restaurants. Until recently, tourism in Cartagena had been largely dominated by Latin Americans on holiday, but with the arrival of the low-cost Spirit Airlines providing direct service through Fort Lauderdale, Cartagena is breaking into the mainstream as a viable option for vacationing Americans. Safety concerns that may have once existed in this country are becoming increasing diminished with Cartagena emerging at the helm as one of the safest places to travel within Colombia.
Like most cities, one should “hit the ground running” and walk as much as possible throughout the old city. The historic appeal of this city is what makes Cartagena uniquely different from other Caribbean destinations. If you’re looking to lounge on the beach with an umbrella drink, Cartagena is not for you. If, however, you have a thirst for history, culture and good food, you will more than enjoy strolling through the many squares, cathedrals and fortresses within this walled city. Among the most formidable fortress, the San Felipe de Barajas, is a beautiful structure with massive walls rising some 135 feet above the sea is considered the greatest and strongest ever built by the Spaniards in their colonies. The Convento de La Popa, perched atop a hill, is the highest point of the city and offers scenic views. The Museo Del Oro Y Arqueologia, located opposite the Palace of the Inquisition and on one of Cartagena’s most beautiful plazas houses gold treasures and pre-colonial pottery. The largest square in the old town, Plaza De La Aduana is also the oldest, is used as a parade ground with a statue of Christopher Columbus in its center. The Cathedral of Santo Domingo is one of the more popular churches, although all are uniquely beautiful and worth a visit.
Outside the confines of the old city, Islas Del Rosario is an archipelago consisting of 27 small coral islands and makes for an ideal day trip. Cruises depart year-round from the Muelle Turistico in Cartagena and can be arranged directly through most of the hotels. Scuba diving, shopping, and a visit to an aquarium are all available on the islands. Playa Blanca is undoubtedly the nicest beach off of Cartagena and can be reached via a boat ride.
A popular tourist site and approximately 25 miles north of Cartagena a mud volcano known as Volcán del Totumo gives a whole new meaning to the mud wrap treatment. Visitors can enter the crater and slip into a relaxing mud bath. The nearby laguna serves as a natural bath for washing off the mud. The trip makes for a fun-filled day and is highly recommended.
A trip to the areas of Bocagrande and El Laguito, located on an L-shaped peninsula facing the Caribbean make for a nice afternoon activity. Filled with restaurants and shopping the area offers almost anything the traveling tourist may be seeking. These two upscale areas can be accessed via a short cab ride from the old city.