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Cartagena Travel Tips

Cartagena Travel Tips

Cartagena Caribbean Coast, Colombia Travel Guide

Communication Essentials

Stay connected with local SIMs and available Wi-Fi.

Getting Connected

  • Local SIM cards: Claro, Tigo, Movistar. Purchase at official stores with passport. Affordable data/call packages. Consider an ESIM from Airalo for convenience.
  • Internet access: Most hotels/hostels, restaurants, and cafes have free Wi-Fi. Connection quality varies. For constant connectivity, look into a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi.
  • Postal services: 4-72 (national). International couriers like DHL, FedEx are options for faster shipping.

Language & Translation

Bridge communication gaps with essential phrases and tools.

Language Resources

  • Language: Spanish is universal. English spoken by staff in major tourist areas. Consider learning with Rosetta Stone before your trip.
  • Translation: Use a Translation app (e.g., Google Translate) with offline Spanish packs.
  • phrases: Hola, Buenos días, Por favor, Gracias, ¿Cuánto cuesta?, No entiendo, ¿Habla inglés?, La cuenta por favor.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand typical operating times for shops, restaurants, and banks.

General Operating Times

  • Shops: Typically 9:00/10:00 AM to 7:00/8:00 PM. Some smaller shops may close for siesta (1:00-3:00 PM).
  • Restaurants: Lunch 12:00-3:00 PM, dinner from 7:00 PM. Tourist areas often have continuous service.
  • Museums/Attractions: Usually 9:00/10:00 AM to 5:00/6:00 PM. Many museums are closed on Mondays.

Banking & Holidays

Access to money and holiday impacts on services.

Financial & Calendar Notes

  • Banks: Monday-Friday, 8:00/9:00 AM to 4:00/5:00 PM. Some open half-day Saturday.
  • ATMs: Widely available in banks, malls, tourist areas (24/7). Use secure locations.
  • Public holidays: Banks, government offices may close. Tourist attractions usually open but crowded.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interacting with Locals

  • Greetings: Handshake common. One kiss on right cheek between women/men and women after acquaintance.
  • Attire: Casual lightweight clothing for daytime. Cover shoulders/knees in churches. Smart casual for upscale dining.
  • Dining/Tipping: Relaxed, social affair. See Section 2.3 for tipping details.
  • Bargaining: Polite bargaining in markets is fine; keep it respectful.

Sensitive Topics & Practices

  • Photography: Ask permission before photographing individuals. For Palenqueras, a small tip is customary. Avoid security/military photography.
  • Taboos: Avoid discussing politics or drug-related history with strangers. Football rivalries can be sensitive.
  • Addressing people: Use formal "usted" for strangers, elders, or authority, unless invited to use "tú."
  • Gender/LGBTQ+: Generally welcoming in tourist areas. Discretion advised in conservative areas. Women travelers: caution when alone at night.

Helpful Tip: Language Effort

Before asking "¿Habla inglés?", try a few Spanish phrases first. Locals appreciate the effort, even if your Spanish is basic.

Accessibility Information

Navigating Cartagena with mobility needs.

Infrastructure Challenges

Cartagena's Old City has accessibility challenges with cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.

Bocagrande's Accessibility

The modern district of Bocagrande is generally more accessible with wider, paved sidewalks and newer buildings.

Sensory Impairments

Dedicated services for visual or hearing impairments are limited compared to highly developed countries.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

Some attractions are partially accessible, and specific public transport options.

Navigating the City

  • Major museums and newer hotels may have ramps/elevators.
  • TransCaribe buses offer some accessibility features, including ramps at stations.
  • Taxis may or may not accommodate wheelchairs, depending on vehicle type.

Resources for Accessible Travel

Finding information and support for planning an accessible visit.

Where to Find Information

  • Consult specialized travel agencies for recommendations.
  • Online forums dedicated to accessible travel can provide insights.
  • These resources highlight more inclusive accommodations or tours.

Accessibility Considerations

Old City Challenges

  • Many multi-level colonial buildings have stairs.
  • Historical sites, especially older ones, are not fully wheelchair accessible.
  • Upper levels of San Felipe Castle have many ramps and uneven surfaces.

Support & Advice

  • Assistance from tour operators or hotels may be available upon prior request.
  • Carry a small amount of toilet paper or tissues and hand sanitizer.
  • Public restrooms might not always provide supplies.

Helpful Tip: Public Restrooms

Carry a small amount of toilet paper or tissues and hand sanitizer. Public restrooms might not always provide them, especially outside major tourist attractions.

Health & Safety

Stay safe and healthy during your visit to Cartagena.

General Safety Measures

Precautionary steps to stay secure.

Personal Security

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
  • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.

Health & Well-being

Tips for staying healthy in a tropical climate.

Tropical Preparedness

  • Stay hydrated by drinking bottled water.
  • Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and hats.
  • Use insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk.

Food & Drink Safety

Eating and drinking safely.

Culinary Precautions

  • Eat at reputable restaurants and street food stalls with high turnover.
  • Avoid tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Be cautious with ice in drinks, unless you confirm it's made from purified water.

Emergency Contacts

Important numbers to remember.

Assistance Numbers

  • General Emergency: 123 (Police, Ambulance, Fire)
  • Police: 112 (National Police)
  • Tourist Police: A specific force for tourist-related issues (often accessed via 123).

Airport Services

Airport Lounge Access

  • For frequent travelers, Priority Pass access.
  • Independent airport lounge access around the world.
  • Consider membership for comfort and quiet.

Flight Compensation Services

  • If your flight is delayed or cancelled, Compensair assists.
  • Receive compensation for flight disruptions.
  • This service helps with denied boarding claims too.

Cultural Immersion & Responsible Choices

Local Customs & Interactions

  • Be mindful of respectful interaction guidelines.
  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals.
  • Observe religious site etiquette (dress modestly, keep quiet).

Money & Banking Advice

  • Carry a mix of small bills for street vendors.
  • Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Exchange currency at reputable exchange houses or banks.

Final Practical Tip

Cartagena's heat and humidity mean you will likely move at a slower pace. Build in time for relaxation, hydration, and spontaneous discoveries.