Cartagena, Colombia - A Travel Destination in Photos by Callie Riesling Photography

Cartagena, Colombia
a travel destination in photos

Overview: The exuberant colors that make up the captivating cobblestone avenidas of Cartagena de Indias draw you in and make you fall in love with the city. Cartagena is a city that lies along the Caribbean in the Northern Bolivar region of Colombia. The population of the Cartagena is comparable to Memphis in the United States with just over a million people living in the metro area. Because of the wonderful climate, rich history, stunning landscapes and warmhearted, welcoming public, Cartagena makes an incredible vacation destination. Cartagena is much different than I thought it would be, even after extensive research and talking to friends that had been there before. The Walled City (the original city) is incredible. I have also visited Old San Juan in Puerto Rico and although they have similar styles, Old San Juan could not compare. It didn't even come close. I had seen gorgeous photos of Cartagena.... but as a photographer, I was a bit skeptical because I know what a good photographer can do to make a subject look 10 times better than it really is. But it absolutely shocked me. It was even BETTER than the amazing photos that I had seen. In fact it was hard to capture because it was so beautiful and there was so much. The gorgeous, colorful colonial buildings don't just extend for a few streets like other places I have visited... the entire walled city's beauty has been well preserved and even beautified.
At the end of this post, I will have additional information about Cartagena!

What I loved: I have never visited a place like Cartagena. It is one of the most incredible places I have ever been and I would go back in heartbeat. The people of Cartagena are kind, hard working and value their families so much. The landscape is beautiful and unique. But the cultural experience was over the top.... AMAZING. 


What I didn't like: I hated leaving after a day that went by so fast. I didn't like not being able help all of the people that are living in the barrios. Seeing all of the strays made me sad and made me miss my lab at home. I really really really really really would have liked to stay much longer!


Before you go, you should know:
Cartagena is an adventurous travel destination... and it will bring you out of your comfort zone even if you are adventurous. English is NOT the first language and many people do not speak any of it. Their Spanish is very fast, even when they slow down for you. And while Cartagena shouldn't really be associated with the bad reputation of the cartels and drug trade of the central regions, Colombia is a third world country and Cartagena is a large city. Tens of Thousands of Americans visit Colombia each year for all sorts of reasons, and Colombia's safety has improved significantly in recent years, but you should still be cautious. As there are in ALL countries, there are areas that you need to avoid or just use extra caution. Fortunately, most of it is common sense. My husband and I always make sure we check out the US State Department's Travel Warnings whenever we travel to make sure we are aware and knowledgeable. Currently the US State Department does have a Travel Warning issued for Colombia.... it was the same one that was issued when I was visiting and we had no problems what-so-ever. These travel statements are issued for a reason, not to scare you out of going, but to make you aware to protect yourself and your family. The people of Cartagena are kind and welcoming. Cartagena is also extremely diverse... From the La Popa Monastery atop the city you can really see the contrast of the different neighborhoods and the level of wealth. Remember, Colombia is a third world country. There are hotels that charge $500 per night, the old city with perfectly maintained buildings but just a few blocks away then there are the barrios and the slums made up of wood-plank shacks and no sewage. 


Go if you: Love adventure, rich culture, unique experiences, want to help people that are less fortunate and aren't afraid to go a little bit out of your comfort zone.


Stay home if you: Are afraid to get out of your comfort zone, are very upset by people and animals living in a third world country far below the poverty line or want a laid back vacation just sitting on the beach.