Where do rich people live in Cartagena Colombia?
Bocagrande, the main beach neighborhood in the city, has been the vacation destination of choice for Colombians since the 1960s. The long strip of beachfront and high-rise buildings, visible throughout Cartagena, is a beacon for beachgoers and the wealthy.
Is Cartagena Colombia safe?
Cartagena today is actually pretty safe – in fact, it’s one of the safer places in Colombia. There’s plenty of police officers on the street and the city is seeing improvements to the crime rate and general security. Most tourists who visit Cartagena have a trouble-free time.
Is Cartagena expensive?
Cartagena is undoubtedly the current crown jewel of Colombian tourism, and as such is one of the most expensive locations in this amazing country.
Is Cartagena worth visiting?
Cartagena is one of the most visited cities in the Americas: tourists flock here to enjoy the Caribbean climate, historic Walled City and gorgeous nearby beaches.
What is Cartagena Colombia known for?
Known for its energy, street art and proximity to many Caribbean islands, Cartagena de Indias is one of the most visited cities in South America. Read about why you visit Cartagena and learn tips to plan the best trip.
Why is Cartagena called the Walled city?
After he robbed the city of a hefty amount of gold, the Spanish crown ordered the construction of stone walls to protect the city—these are the same walls you can see today in the historic area of the city adequately called la ciudad amurallada—“the walled city.” Even so, some of the most famous pirate attacks happened …
Who is Colombia’s biggest neighbor?
It is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north, Venezuela to the east, Brazil to the southeast, Ecuador and Peru to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and Panama to the northwest. Colombia comprises 32 departments and the Capital District of Bogotá, the country’s largest city.
Which is better Cartagena or Medellin?
Medellín wins here. Medellín is a much bigger city with a metro population of over 3.7 million so it obviously has many more restaurant and nightlife options. In comparison, Cartagena has a metro population of over 1.2 million. Medellín has many more restaurant options, many of which have been covered on this website.
Do they speak English in Cartagena Colombia?
The two areas where English is most widely spoken are inside the walled city of Cartagena and in the Caribbean islands of San Andres and Providencia. These tourist destinations, which are located far away from Colombia in the Caribbean sea, are populated almost exclusively by bi-lingual English and Spanish speakers.
Is Colombia safe for 2021?
Reconsider travel to Colombia due to crime. Exercise increased caution in Colombia due to civil unrest, terrorism, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Can you use US dollars in Cartagena?
Cartagena has plenty of banks and casas de cambios. Many large hotels and emerald shops will change dollars, and most of the larger businesses accept US dollar bills. Exchange rates for other currencies are very poor.
What is Cartagena famous for?
Old Cartagena is a walled colonial city from the 1600s. The best way to absorb the charm in each block is to wander on foot. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with three and four-story buildings painted in brilliant colors and punctuated by architecturally stunning cathedrals.
Where to stay in Cartagena?
For oceanfront accommodations in Bocagrande, Hotel Almirante is a high-rise property overlooking the Caribbean and offering spacious rooms and full service amenities in the heart of newer Cartagena. This area of Cartagena is on the far northern end, close to the airport.
How safe is Cartagena for travel?
Cartagena is considered the safest city in Colombia according the U.S. State Department. Colombia’s previous reputation for kidnappings and crime is no longer a concern in tourist areas, especially Cartagena.
What is the difference between Cartagena and Bocagrande?
The beaches in Cartagena leave much to be desired, but if you’re looking to splash in the Caribbean to ease 85-degree heat and humidity, this is where both locals and visitors go. Bocagrande is also more touristy in the way of high-end apparel shops and American chain restaurants such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and Subway.