Through the grand historic XVI century walls of this fortress city, Cartagena tells the tale of years gone by. It's a city of many colors, scents, flavors, textures and sounds. Latinos Post merges into an adventurous and historical trip to give you the inside of this magnificent Caribbean destination. The city's magic was not extinguished with the passage of time. Old mansions once home to the trading ports of wealthy nobleman and merchants grace central streets and markets loaded with stacks of fresh fruit at central plazas. The Pirates and their stories remain intact and today the city is alive with new wonders, bright colored buildings and stone palaces.
Castle San Felipe, Walled City & Plazas
In the XVI century the city repels the attacks of the English and French pirates from behind the stone and coral walls. The magnificent fortress is proof the Pirates of the Caribbean did exist.
More than 6 miles of walls enclose the historic center of this warm, coastal, ancient and sophisticated city. This place is the main destination for congresses and conventions such as the Summit of the Americas were President Barack Obama reunited with leaders from around the world.
During the day, the trees lined at the little plaza of San Diego offer cool shade for those walking by. It comes alive at night when people fill restaurant tables to enjoy the local cuisine under the moon.
Cartagena a romantic ride to the XVI century
For the most romantic experience, Latinos Post recommends to take a ride with the Coachman steering horse-drawn carriages who regale their passages with tales of Cartegena's colonial past plazas. Some of the old homes you see during the horse-ride reborn as luxurious boutique hotels.
Head into the city center to sample the market life and thriving Cafe scenes in San Diego District. Prepare for a surprise at every turn from the dancers that perform in the pretty street and squares. Locals put together captivating shows in beautiful flowering dresses and traditional costumes. The buildings around the old city center combined historical eras and design styles in vibrant colors. Have your camera on hand to capture the fantastic scenarios that only Cartagena has to offer.
The Cartagena "Must-do" Adventures
About 45 minutes away from Cartagena, Latinos Post recommends to take a boat paradise non-stop to 'Islas del Rosario'. This place is an archipelago of 23 islands with turquoise-colored water, coral reefs and beaches of really-white sand. The site is ideal for diving and nautical activities. Also 45 minutes away you may visit the 'Volcan del Totumo'. There are a few places like this 'alternative spa' where you can walk around covered in mud and go completely unnoticed. The idea is to allow the mud stuck to the body to dry for health purposes as this fun earthly treatment will leave you looking and feeling radiant!.
Dancing with the stars in Cartagena
Nights in Cartagena are famous for their liveliness and party atmosphere. The intoxicating rhythm of salsa can be heard throughout the streets of the old town. Latinos Post recommends enjoying the Caribbean Soul and crossover rhythms played by folk music groups and musicians aboard of the 'Chiva", the famous open sided bus that rides around the city. Be ready to put on your dancing shoes and prepare to be swept away by the Latin beats! Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is among those visitors who enjoyed the Cartagena nightlife in one of the local favorite clubs 'Havana'.
A Taste of Cartagena Cuisine
One of the restaurants Latinos Post recommends while stopping by in Cartagena is 'El Santisimo'. This is a true Caribbean classic and it is impossible not to fall for the temptations carefully chosen by Chef Federico Vega Perez. Enjoy the sublime 'Marine Choir' in your table as well as the tangy and smooth 'Santo Toribio Chicken', accompanied by aromatic coconut lemonade.
Another obligatory stop Latinos Post recommends for the real Cartagena's taste is 'Cande'. This restaurant is home of the flavors, sounds and traditions of the Colombian coast. Immerse yourself in the flavors of the 'Carne Puya' for a different take of tender and sweet steak 100% Cartagena style. Don't leave the table without trying the well done 'Arroz Marinero' a splendid seafood mix with a coconut touch. All the ingredients in the kitchen are locally sourced to create original dishes from the Cartagena's 'abuelas' kitchen. Enjoy your food with a glass of homemade champagne and the folkloric sounds of 'cumbia'.
El Santísimo
Centro, Calle del Torno # 39-62
(57 5)660 1531
www.elsantisimo.com
Cande Calle Estanco del Tabaco # 35 - 30
(57+5) 668 5291
www.restaurantecande.com