Cartagena Guidebook

Day Time: Its HOT and HUMID in Cartagena, so pack for summer. Popular day attire includes shorts, t-shirts, flip- flops, comfy walking shoes, sunglasses, hats and anything for the beach. Night Time: Although we are on the ocean, it's still very warm at night. Make sure you pack light weight apparel. Women: Dress up in high heels, sandals and dresses. Men: Although the temperature justifies shorts and a shirt at night, most restaurants and bars expect you to be wearing pants, collared shirt, and shoes.

Although it may seem that Cartagena may seem easy, it's always better to have a local who is on your side who can help you plan and manage your trip so that you can relax. A good concierge will have your trip planned, budgeted, and organized before you even get here. Some key things that they will help you with include, security, reservations, transportation, groceries, yacht rental, tours, massages, VIP entry into clubs, and EVERYTHING in between. In Cartagena the plan B is just as important, so unless you know how to sort out problems in Spanish then best to get a concierge that can.

Getting to your villa from the airport as a group is best in a commuter van, for individuals a taxi is easy. When in the old city, all the tourist attractions, bars and restaurants are within walking distance. The old city is reasonably safe to walk in at night, but not suggested outside of the historic city center. Taxis frequent the old city, so you should come across one every couple minutes. If planning on visiting the islands, taking a yacht is the best way and can be organized through your concierge.

Day Activities 1. Rent a yacht and cruise the Rosario islands 2. Take a fun walking tour 3. Check out historical sites and museums 4. Go for a day spa, or book a massage to your villa 5. Go to a day club 6. Hit the beach 7. Water sports- jetski, scuba diving, paddle board, surf 8. Visit the mud volcano, mangrove tour, or Palenque 9. Skydive 10. Golf Night Activities 1. Sunset cocktails 2. Horse and carriage ride 3. Nightclubs 4. Whiskey and cigar tasting 5. Check out a great restaurant 6. Get lost in the old city 7. Check out street performers 8. Hang out at your villa with a DJ

The old city center is action packed and wonderful to get lost in. You can spend days just looking around, but don't forget to go to the islands on a yacht, there is amazing islands, swimming spots, day clubs, and fun things to do. Make sure you factor both places in for the full Cartagena experience.

1. The tip is most likely already on the bill at restaurants. Take the time to review it so that you don't pay more than required. Tip is traditionally 10%. However, service staff outside restaurants appreciate tips. 2. Always agree on a price before you accept goods or service. 3. "No dar papaya" is a famous phrase which translates to if you offer someone papaya they will take it. What this means is don't give opportunity to people to steal from you. So try to stay within the safe areas like the walled city at night and don't be flashy with the cash and bling bling.