Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, January 2024

At the beginning of January 2024, Leo and I took a short but incredible break to Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. The trip was special for many reasons, but especially because it was Leo’s first time on a plane! Watching his excitement as we took off from Caracas to Bogotá and then changed for our flight to Cartagena made the journey even more memorable.

A Walk Through History – Cartagena’s Old Town

Cartagena is a city that breathes history. As soon as we arrived, we were welcomed by its colourful streets, cobbled alleys, and well-preserved colonial architecture. Walking through the Old Town felt like stepping back in time, with Spanish-era balconies overflowing with flowers, churches standing tall over bustling plazas, and the sound of street musicians filling the air.

The Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is at the heart of Cartagena’s charm. The thick stone walls that once protected the city from pirate attacks still surround the historic centre, offering incredible views of the Caribbean Sea from Baluarte de Santo Domingo and San Felipe de Barajas Castle. The fortress, one of the most impressive in South America, stands as a reminder of Cartagena’s importance as a colonial stronghold.

We spent hours wandering through the Plaza de los Coches, where horse-drawn carriages still roll by, and exploring the Plaza Santo Domingo, where the famous “Gertrudis” sculpture by Fernando Botero sits, symbolising good luck for those who touch it. The lively Getsemaní neighbourhood, once overlooked, has now become one of Cartagena’s most artistic and vibrant districts, filled with murals, small cafés, and street performers.

Relaxing by the Sea – Beaches and Modern Cartagena

Cartagena isn’t just about history—it’s also about relaxation and the Caribbean lifestyle. We enjoyed our hotel’s swimming pool, soaking in the tropical sunshine, and made time for Cartagena’s beaches. While the city’s urban beaches might not be the most spectacular in the Caribbean, the warm waters and lively atmosphere made for a fun experience.

Beyond the Old Town, Cartagena has a modern side. We explored the Bocagrande district, with its high-rise hotels, shopping centres, and restaurants offering stunning sea views. The contrast between the colonial charm of the Old Town and the sleek skyline of modern Cartagena made the city even more fascinating.

Venturing into Nature – La Boquilla and the Mangroves

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting La Boquilla, a small fishing village just outside Cartagena. Unlike the tourist-filled streets of the Old Town, La Boquilla had a more local, relaxed vibe, with small huts lining the shore and fishermen pulling in their daily catch.

Here, we embarked on a mangrove forest tour, one of the most unique natural experiences in the region. Mangroves are coastal trees that grow in saltwater, with intertwined roots that create a dense network above the water. These ecosystems are vital for marine life, acting as natural nurseries for fish and crabs while also protecting the coastline from erosion.

Gliding through the narrow water channels of the mangrove forest in a small wooden canoe, we were surrounded by tunnels of green, where birds, crabs, and even small fish moved through the roots of the trees. The peacefulness of the mangrove labyrinth was a stark contrast to the lively streets of Cartagena, offering a moment of pure tranquillity.

An Unforgettable Experience

From Leo’s first flight to exploring the history, culture, and natural beauty of Cartagena, this trip was nothing short of amazing. It was a perfect mix of relaxation, discovery, and adventure, making it a fantastic way to start 2024.

Click here to access the album.