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The historic city of Cartagena, on Colombia's northern coast, may have been founded in 1533 but it has become a modern favourite thanks to its combination of Caribbean warmth and European flair.
Where to Stay
The best range of accommodations is in either the old walled colonial city or along a strip of towering hotels fronting on the beach.
- Ciudad Amurallada is the area within the old city walls. This part of Cartagena has most of the city's historic sites, best restaurants and interesting shopping
- Bocagrande is the strip of high rises that follow the stretch of beach on the peninsula that juts out into the Caribbean. Most of the best hotels and all-inclusive resorts are in this area.
When to Go
Cartagena is a popular destination for travellers from both North and South America, so Christmas and weekends tend to be especially busy. Consider travelling in January to get the best package deals.
Weather
Being relatively close to the Equator, Cartagena is consistently warm all year round. Fortunately, the weather is drier and less humid during the early part of the year when Canadians want to escape the cold.
Events/Attractions/Festivals
The old colonial town of Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the prime reasons to visit. The city also hosts world-famous performers during the major music festival that takes place in January.
Pricing
Christmas and New Years are the most expensive time of the year to visit. However, all-inclusive package vacations (which include airfare, meals and hotel) are available from mid-December to March and are usually the best deal for travel during those months.
What to See & Do
Beaches
The best of the city's brown sand beaches are located on the peninsula of Bocagrande, near the concentration of hotels and resorts.
Day Trips
For soft, white sand beaches, take a day trip to either Playa Blanca (south of Cartagena in Baru) or Las Islas del Rosarioto (a two hour boat ride). For something different, splash around in a warm mud bath atop the Volcán de Totumo, about an hour's ride outside of the city in nearby Arboletes. Make sure you take time to rinse off afterward at the nearby lagoon. You can arrange any of these trips through your hotel.
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