We chose to stay in the area Getsemaní, an area just outside the old city walls, which is full of restaurants and funky coffee shops and bars. A short walk took us to Castillo de San Felipe, (1630) said to be the greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards in an of their colonies. First built after city was attacked by Drake (recommend the audiotour) .
Top: One of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas‘ impregnable walls; many tunnels are open for exploring but watch for water. Bottom: city buses match old town decor.
Cartegena‘s walled old town has been a tourest destination for ages for good reason:
Colonial architecture:
Food and art:
People and places – including Cafe del Mar on the western ramparts of the old city.
Note the typewriters, second top, used to assist people with bookkeeping and prepare banking and government forms.
The ocean:
We took a long walk out along the ocean to watch kite surfers at sunset.
Indigenous people and their lovely bags:
I bought the little, brown, wool bag this Wayuu man is modelling. Right: Cartegena cathedral dome at night.
Back to Getsemaní, is a great choice for area in which to stay.
A square nearby our hotel where we took our yummy breakfasts.
Kerry Travels 