Voyage Vibes: My Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Cartagena Edition
- Elle
- Mar 22, 2024
- 4 min read
Do you ever wonder how to navigate around different cities around the world? No idea where to stay or where the best restaurants are? Where is that Instagrammable photo taken?
Well, stress no more lovelies, in this new series Voyage Vibes: My Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Cartagena. I will be detailing my explorations in destinations both foreign and domestic, and give you my itineraries as a template for your own trips.
First up... Cartagena, Colombia. As one of my favorite cities in the world, the energy in Cartagena is unmatched. Having the ability to both turn-up and relax while enjoying some amazing restaurants and delicious street food is always my goal on a vacation and Cartagena never disappoints.
This vibrant city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is unique in its ability to intertwine history, modernity, and culture with breathtaking landscapes into a hodgepodge of great food, awesome beaches and friendly people.
Join me on a journey through the colorful streets, culinary delights, and cultural treasures of Cartagena as we explore its enchanting beauty and rich heritage.
Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Bastion
As I stepped foot into the cobblestone streets of Cartagena's Old Town, I found myself, as always, enchanted by the colonial charm that surrounded me. My accommodation for this journey, is Hotel Bastion, a gorgeous highly rated hotel perfectly located for easy shopping, restaurants and sightseeing.
Hotel staff welcomes guests with a refreshing drink, easy check-in, and amazingly fast service. With a great breakfast included daily, 24/7 room service, a beautiful rooftop pool and a top-rated restaurant right in the lobby, I couldn't have asked for a better home base for this trip.
Nestled within the historic walled city, the hotel offered a luxurious retreat amidst the bustling streets. From the moment I arrived, I knew my stay in Cartagena would be nothing short of extraordinary.
Other highly rated hotels in the walled city perfect for easy walking:
Culinary Delights: Mistura, Cande, and Cafe del Mar
No trip to Cartagena is complete without indulging in its vibrant culinary scene. While you can throw a rock and find amazing food, here are some of my favorites in Old Town, that are sure to please.
Mistura Restaurant is the first restaurant I tried this trip and I thoroughly savored the flavors of Colombian cuisine reimagined with a modern twist.
From fresh ceviche to savory empanadas, each dish was a culinary masterpiece.
Cande Restaurant is a hidden gem nestled within the city's labyrinthine streets. With its charming ambiance and innovative dishes, Cande offered a culinary journey like no other.
From traditional arepas to succulent seafood platters, every bite was a celebration of Cartagena's diverse culinary heritage.
Cafe del Mar Restaurant is a gorgeous restaurant located on the top of the Old City's fort wall offering amazing views of the Cartagena skyline. Sitting here sipping a cocktail, listening to the dj and just relaxing in the ocean breeze is the perfect way to watch the sun dip into the ocean at the end of a sightseeing day.
Beach Day: Bora Bora Beach Club
There are a ton of easily accessible beaches around the city, but if you want a truly special experience, try out Bora Bora Beach Club. Taking a speed boat to the island and being greeted by a happy smiling staff sets the stage for an amazing day of being pampered.
The staff were amazingly attentive and were happy to bring out everything from hookahs to fancy drinks in a coconut. With its laid-back vibe and breathtaking views, Bora Bora captured the essence of Cartagena's coastal charm, leaving me yearning for more.
Culture: Discovering Palenque
No trip to Cartagena would be complete without a journey to Palenque, the historic village that stands as a symbol of resilience and freedom. As I wandered through its colorful streets and vibrant markets, I was transported back in time to a place where tradition and culture thrive.
Going from learning the history of the proprietor at the sweet shop to hearing natural remedies from the village's healer, I learned so much from this village and its inhabitants.
From rhythmic drumbeats to lively dances, Palenque offered a glimpse into Colombia's rich Afro-Caribbean heritage in a way that lasts well beyond the trip home.
SN: I am not really a whole fish person, but Colombia (and particularly Palenque) has fish prepared so well it literally melts in your mouth. Always choose the fish!!
Conclusion:
As I bid farewell to the enchanting city of Cartagena, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the memories made and the experiences shared. From its captivating architecture to its culinary delights, Cartagena has stolen my heart again in more ways than one.
As I embarked on my journey home, I carried with me the warmth of its people, the beauty of its landscapes, and the richness of its culture, knowing that Cartagena would forever hold a special place in my wandering heart.
I encourage you to embark on your own journey to Cartagena, where every street holds a story, and every moment is a celebration of life's extraordinary adventures.
Till our next adventure...
I love this! You look amazing! Adding Cartagena to my bucket list
I guess I need to add Cartagena to the top of my visit list. Good Lookin Out