Cartagena: the tourist trap that might still win you over
okay, so here’s the deal with Cartagena - it’s beautiful, sure, but also kind of a mess if you’re not careful. i’m talking about the kind of place where you’ll find a perfectly restored colonial mansion next to a crumbling wall covered in street art, and both are equally instagrammable. but let’s get real: is it overrated? maybe. let’s break it down like a digital nomad who’s been burned by too many “paradise” cities.
first off, the weather. it’s hot. like, “why did i wear jeans” hot. and humid. you’ll sweat through your shirt just walking from your hostel to the nearest arepa stand. but hey, at least the ocean breeze hits you when you’re wandering the old town, right?
now, let’s talk money. rent in getsemaní (the hipster hood) can be surprisingly steep for what you get. expect to pay around $400-$600/month for a decent place, but don’t be shocked if your shower only dribbles lukewarm water. safety-wise, stick to well-lit areas at night. i’ve heard stories of tourists getting mugged near the city walls after dark. not trying to scare you, just saying - keep your wits about you.
here’s a quick cost-of-living table to give you an idea:
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apt (city center) | $400-$600 |
| Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $8-$15 |
| Beer at a local bar | $2-$4 |
| Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-$5 |
pro-tip: skip the fancy rooftop bars in the walled city. head to getsemaní for cheaper drinks and better vibes. locals swear by “el chico” for a night out - it’s divey, loud, and exactly what you need after a day of sweating through your guidebook.
and don’t even get me started on the tourist traps. the “chiva” party buses? overpriced and cheesy. the emerald shops? full of fakes. but the street food? chef’s kiss. try the “cocadas” (coconut sweets) from a cart vendor - they’re legit.
if you’re into history, the san felipe de barajas castle is worth the climb, but go early to avoid the heat and the crowds. and if you’re feeling adventurous, take a day trip to the rosario islands. just don’t expect crystal-clear water - it’s more like “meh, it’ll do” clear.
here’s the thing: cartagena isn’t perfect, but it’s got soul. the kind of soul that makes you forgive the overpriced cocktails and the occasional power outage. just go in with your eyes open, and you might just fall for it anyway.
check out these links for more honest takes:
- TripAdvisor’s Cartagena forum for real traveler gripes.
- Reddit’s r/travel thread for unfiltered opinions.
- Yelp’s Cartagena listings for local eats and hidden gems.
- Lonely Planet’s Cartagena guide for the classic tourist take.
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