Where is Cartagena?
Cartagena is a port city, colonized during the Spanish Colonial era, on the northern coast of Colombia in the Caribbean Coast Region.
What’s the weather like?
Cartagena is always hot! Remember, it’s located in Colombia’s Caribbean coast. July averages daily high temperatures of around 88°F, rarely falling below 85°F or exceeding 91°F. The daily low temperatures are around 79°F, rarely falling below 76°F or exceeding 81°F. The lowest daily average low temperature is 79°F on July 16. For reference, on June 18, the hottest day of the year, temperatures in Cartagena typically range from 79°F to 88°F, while on January 17, the coldest day of the year, they range from 76°F to 87°F.
What’s the timezone in Cartagena?
Cartagena is in the Eastern Standard Timezone (same as eastern USA).
Do I need to speak Spanish?
It helps, but is not necessary to get around in Cartagena. All hotel concierges and most restaurant
and bar staff speak English. However, if you feel like brushing up on your Español, we recommend downloading the free app, DuoLingo, for a fun and easy way to learn as much Spanish as you’d like.
MONEY
Are U.S. dollars or Euros accepted in Colombia? No
Are there ATMs in Colombia? Where can I exchange currency? Yes, there are plenty of ATMs (cajero automáticos) in Cartagena. We recommend pulling cash out in the airport. There are a bank of ATMs located in the back corner of departures section. Using the currency exchange is an acceptable way of converting cash, but know you will be getting a worse
rate than at the ATM. Credit cards are great for any larger purchases and pesos when you’re bartering with the locals.
Are credit cards accepted in Colombia? The majority of places do accept cards, but not all, so make sure you have some pesos on your person. Most credit cards nowadays offer no foreign transaction fees, but it’s a good idea to check. You should also call your bank and any credit cards you plan on using to let them know you’ll be abroad.
Is tipping customary in Colombia? Yes, There is typically a 10% tip (service) added to your bill. If service was extraordinary, feel free to add some extra pesos. If not, you will not be offending anyone. Please tip any tour guides you may use.
SAFETY
If you watched the hit Netflix drama; Narcos, and you are worried that you may be kidnapped and/or asked to be a drug mule. Don’t worry!!! Cartagena is an incredibly safe city and the people are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet – even during the 90s, cartels had an agreement to keep “Colombia’s Playground” out of the mix. Just as if you were walking in any city in the world, be smart, only keep small amounts of cash on you and keep an eye on your belongings.
WATER
Can I drink the water? Some tap water is safe, but to err on the side of caution, bottled water is readily available in the area.
Do I have to worry about ice in drinks? If you are eating at a restaurant frequented by foreign travelers, the bar probably uses purified ice, so don’t worry!
What about showering and brushing my teeth? Tap water is fine for showering and brushing those pearly whites!
CONNECTIVITY
Do I need an adapter for my electronics? Nope. Colombia uses the same plugs and outlets than USA.
Is there internet in Cartagena? Yes, many of the hotels offer WiFi. Unless you have an international plan, you should switch your cell phone to “airplane mode” to avoid any surprise charges for international roaming, texting, and/or data usage.
How can I get hold of you, or my friends and family? For those in the Apple ecosystem, you can use iMessage and Facetime while connected to a WiFi network for no charge. WhatsApp is another great app for free international texting while on a WiFi network. Skype is a useful tool for making international calls for a low, flat rate.
Additional Cartagena reading:
THE NEW YORK TIMES, 36 Hours in Cartagena
BON APPETIT, Already Thinking About Your Next Vacation? Make It Cartagena