Cartagena, Colombia Vacation Guide
Cartagena, Colombia combines old-world charm and modern luxuries to create a holiday destination that is like no other. The area has been inhabited since around 4000 BC, though the city of Cartagena itself was founded in the 16th century. A popular trading port, particularly for gold and silver, the city grew in leaps and bounds. Each population surge has added to the unique architecture of Cartagena's landscape.
Local History
In recent history, Cartagena has become popular as a tourist destination. If you who are fortunate enough to encounter the city, you will find even a simple walk to be a lesson in the culture of Colombia. Homes and buildings are painted in vibrant colours, mostly designed in colonial styles. This is particularly true of Cartagena's downtown, which is also one of the most tourist-friendly spots in the city.
Weather
Visitors from the north can enjoy trips to Columbia year-round, thanks to the tropical climate. The city stays warm throughout the year and seldom suffers from hurricanes or other adverse conditions that often face the Caribbean. However, if you are looking for cheap deals, you will find that Cartagena vacations are less expensive during the rainy seasons. These occur during late spring and fall. Likewise, though the winter months continue to remain warm, cold winds can cause some visitors to stray from outdoor activities. This is a bonus if you are hoping for great deals on hotels in Cartagena.
Things to Do
There is no shortage of things to do when planning a trip to Cartagena. Activities in Cartagena vary from favourite local festivals to top tourist attractions to day trips. Some of the most popular of these are the Miss Colombia beauty pageant in November, the Cartagena Gold Museum, and Las Bovedas, a shopping centre that was once used as a dungeon during the Colombian civil war. Other spots of interest include the fortress of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas and the neighbourhood of Bocagrande, which is filled with restaurants, shopping plazas, clubs, and beautiful beaches. Reserving rental cars in Cartagena also gives you access to the areas around the city without the confusion of hiring taxis.
Booking your Stay
One of the best ways to experience the city is with a Cartagena all inclusive package. These holidays provide lodging and flights in one easy purchase. You can also schedule day trips to places like Isla Mucura or the Rosario Islands. An all-inclusive package helps you by providing you with everything you need but none of the stress involved with managing a foreign land on your own.
To learn more about Cartagena, visit the official travel site of Colombia. A great deal of information, including tips on how to stay safe in Cartagena, can be found at Cartagena Info.
