Cartagena

The magic of Cartagena lies in its massive fortifications, the warmth of the people, the richness of the architecture and the infinite range of cultural expression of a doughty and valiant people. The city is full of romance, and there is the setting for many a tale of times past in every street and square, and along the walls that bound it, waiting for the sunset to evoke past struggles. On a sunny day vibrates with color along the facades of the buildings and the sea breeze refreshes the visitor on his way along the narrow streets of the old city. Declared part of the UNESCO World Heritage in 1984, Cartagena encapsulates all the charm of Spanish colonial architecture, the republic period and today, the attractions of intense night-life, cultural festivals, exotic scenery, superb beaches, wonderful food and a wide offer of hotels and tourist infrastructure.

Attractions

Walk the streets, look at such splendid buildings as the Palace of the Inquisition, the Clock Tower, the battlements and the Castle 0f San Felipe de Barajas. Museums, the cathedrals, Spanish-style houses, water sports and some amazing beaches – these are just some of the attractions of the city and its surroundings.

Activities

The fantasies and historical legacies of Cartagena invite the visitor to explore a smiling, open-handed city, where you can interact with nature and discover the culture, customs, memories and testimonies of a people who breathe the flavor of the Caribbean in their lives. Some of the attractions in and around Cartagena are: Tours of the historic center, on foot or bicycle Visits to squares, museums etc Tours in a horse and carriage Craft-work Rumba Sun and sand Diving Game fishing, underwater fishing Swimming Snorkeling Water-skiing Sailing Kayaks Windsurfing Trekking and ecological walks Surfing Kitesurfing

Shopping

Visit the local vendors and boutiques at the famous Pierino Gallo shopping center where you'll find all the leather goods, coffee and emeralds a pirate could want.

Food

The kitchens of the Colombian Caribbean blend many intense flavors from the wide variety of produce in the fertile soils of the region, in combination with poultry, red meat and river-fresh and salt-water fish and seafood. Cartagena’s cooks naturally start by using local techniques of fried dishes with rice, soups and dressings; but they also adopt things from other climes around the world, such as meat cooked over a low fire, with vegetables, all with delicious and distinctive sauces and strong flavors. One of the best traditions of Cartagena’s cooking is arroz con carne en tabaquito. It is made from diced salted meta with a dressing, mixed in with rice to form a delightful savory dish with a distinctive aroma. You will find almost everything in the Colombia Caribbean kitchen, with every shade of taste and flavor.

Currency

The Colombian Peso is the currency in Colombia (Columbia, CO, COL).

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