Known as the “Crown Jewel of the Caribbean Coast,” Cartagena de Indias indeed sparkles like a rare gem in the sun.
Situated on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, this quirky and colorful town is more than just a chance to escape the hustle and bustle and drink mojitos. (Although it is those things too.) This is a chance to stop being “Mom” for a minute, to try new things, embrace a different culture, and discover new parts of yourself. (And sip on lots of delicious mojitos as you salsa the night away.)
So pack your bags with those going-out clothes you never get to wear, kiss the kids goodbye and tell them to be good while you’re gone. Are you ready to dive in and experience life in Colombia’s gem? Let’s go!
Old Town
This colorful historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. Wander around and admire the unique architecture. Sample the street food, and browse the markets, and enjoy the laid back pace of a day in this pastel-toned paradise. Pop into the Zenú Gold Museum to learn more about the cultures that once inhabited the area. Browse the Bóvedas Market, located inside a former historic prison, for gifts and a rainbow of vibrant local handicrafts.
The food!
With no picky appetites to cater to, go wild and try as much of the local cuisine as you can, because it’s ALL good. Be sure to try Pan de Bono, a savory, cheesy pastry served at breakfast, found at any panaderia (bakery).
For lunch or a quick snack, grab some empanadas, little half-moon-shaped fried pastries filled with meat, potatoes, and veggies, a South American staple.
Wherever you go for dinner, be sure to try the local fish, and finish everything off with a tres leches cake and cup of that distinctive Columbian coffee.
Getsemani
Ready for something even more authentic and slightly less polished? Head to Getsemani, once a slave quarter but now an up-and-coming part of Cartagena. Be sure to visit La Plaza de la Trinidad for an array of local talent – musicians, street performers, and dancers. Embrace your bohemian side and soak up the carefree vibes as you admire the abundant street art with its joyous bursts of color. You can almost feel the heartbeat of the place, and it’s going to make you want to dance…
Feel the beat
Cartagena’s African roots result in the mix of culture you see in this charming city. And nowhere is the Afro influence felt more than in champeta – a distinct type of music born out of the poor areas of Cartagena, a mix of African and Colombian styles.
Want to learn the moves? Many places offer lessons, as well as classes teaching cumbia and salsa. Imagine showing the kids your new moves when you get home. (They’ll probably groan and say “Stop!” but secretly, they’ll be impressed.)
Sip and slay
Once you’re feeling the music, head out into Old Town or Getsemani at night for Cartagena’s exciting, legendary nightlife. When was the last time you danced all night? Shake out all your stress on the dancefloor and salsa the night away! Sip on a coco loco, a Colombian specialty made of rum and coconut, or a refreshing minty mojito. You’re a sensible Mom, so you don’t need us to tell you to be safe and stick to well-lit, populated areas, of course. Let your hair down, Mom, and let loose!
With such a vibrant, warm cultural scene and welcoming, friendly locals, Cartagena is the perfect place for hardworking moms like you to relax and try new things. The mouthwatering food, soul-stirring music, and bohemian scene will give you new life!
And to make your trip even more relaxing, why not let us do the planning for you? You deserve to let someone else do the hard work for a change – and we got you.
