The South American City with Turquoise Waters and Endless Inspiration

Cartagena is known to most Americans as a great party destination. You rent a boat, hit the bars, or maybe plan an entire bachelor or bachelorette trip around booze and beaches. Pinterest board photos often showcase the Colombian city’s brightly painted colonial buildings and palenqueras, which certainly define this coastal Caribbean destination, but these images only scrape the surface of what Cartagena has to offer.

Beyond the nightclubs and jet skiing, the natural, cultural, and culinary excellence of Cartagena makes it a truly can’t-miss destination. In the last decade, the city has exploded with world-renowned Colombian restaurants and bars, boutique hotels, and a bevy of adventures. In a city that is no longer considered “off the beaten path,” it is bursting with hidden gems. Plus, you’d be hard pressed to find another place that is more welcoming to international visitors looking to connect with locals.

“I really think that what makes Cartagena special are the people. There is definitely an attitude of resilience. There is a very friendly, warm demeanor of all of the locals,” says Carmen Angel, the owner of two powerhouse restaurants, Carmen and Don Diablo, in Cartagena. “There's just a very strong desire to leave a mark on your experience in the city.”

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