The city was the first Spanish colony on the American continent and one of the first sanctuaries of freed African slaves in the Americas. It is currently populated by an ethnic mix representative of Colombia's own variety.

Cartagena, located on Colombia's northern coast and facing the Caribbean Sea, is the most visited city in the country by tourists. It gets extremely crowded in the December holidays and the holy week, when schools are out and most Colombians take their vacations. The city has basically two main parts where tourists go: the walled colonial city ("ciudad amurallada"), which is truly amazing and has many fancy restaurants, clubs and hotels; and a long strip of hotel towers and condos fronting onto the beach, known as Bocagrande which is the best part as one can travel to other parts of Colombia and ride jet skis. It is also nice to visit the exclusive neighborhood of Castillogrande, filled with recently built condos, places to jog, and a quiet beach to soak up some sun.

Understanding Cartagena is immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant energy of this Caribbean gem. This Colombian city, with its cobblestone streets and vibrant colors, is a canvas that tells stories of conquest and resilience.

Wander through the walls that surround the historic center, where each stone seems to whisper secrets of corsairs and pirates. The imposing Clock Tower, the main entrance to the walled city, welcomes you to a world where colonial architecture blends with the joy of the Caribbean.

Bolívar Square is the heart of Cartagena, where palms sway to the rhythm of the sea breeze and street vendors offer tropical fruits. Churches like the Cathedral and the Church of San Pedro Claver tell stories of faith and devotion amidst tropical exuberance.

You can't miss losing track of time in the lively Getsemaní neighborhood, where salsa music fills the streets and graffiti expresses the creative vitality of the city. Exploring Cartagena is understanding the unique blend of past and present, where culture, history, and Caribbean joy intertwine in an unforgettable experience.