Advice about Cartagena.

jaramillo says on Feb 8, 2005, 20:00:

You have no reason for concern.

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gregshav says on Feb 8, 2005, 20:21:

You CAN walk around at night in Cartagena. If you are with friends, especially friends who know Cartagena, you won't have a problem. Just be aware of your surroundings like in any big city, and you'll be fine.

I will say that I wore no jewelry when I was there, and I dressed very casual, and no one gave me a threatening look, and I'm as gringo as they come.

Drink plenty of aguardiente and aguila, and check out the Old walled city. I can't wait til I go back this May. ENJOY

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Sam Salmon says on Feb 9, 2005, 08:50:

"look fairly latin" LOL!!!
That'll attract street vendors like flies to sh*t-they'll think you're rich Brasilian on holiday!






' a la orden!'

' a la orden!'

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caslug says on Feb 9, 2005, 13:43:

i dont know how anyone can dress fancy in CTG.. the city is so freaking hot & humid, even at night. Cant imagine trying to wear slacks and a sportcoat to go out at night. I took 2 shower in the day and 1 at night every day in CTG.

The two main tourist area(old city & Bocagrande) of CTG is very safe. Bocagrande & Laguito is safe even at night. I did journey a few times with friends to the non tourist area and it was definitely dodgy.

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babygirl says on Feb 9, 2005, 15:32:

I think you get the point by now, but just had to say I speak 5% spanish, am young very white and blond and travelled down there by myself and didn't feel threatened at all (just harrassed a bit by the vendors..hahaa). Like you said, just use common sense.

cheers - babygirl

cheers

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JoeNJ says on Feb 9, 2005, 17:22:

I was just in Cartagena I was recently in Cartagena during my first trip to Colombia with my fiance and her family. I would agree with the other postings as far as not displaying jewelry, etc. (as you would do in any other city). Cartagena is very safe, many tourists from Europe, U.S. and other parts of South America. Being fluent in Spanish is a big plus. There are many vendors around, but they do come in handy when you need a water or cerveza! Enjoy the old city, it is beautiful (check out the Santa Clara Hotel, and stay there if you can afford it; it's beautiful). There are excursions by boat to the Rosario Islands which are very beautiful. Enjoy your trip.
P.S. the weather was great also, a constant breeze kept it comfortable.

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suzannyo says on Feb 11, 2005, 08:06:

My only concern for you is.... SUNBURN!! :) Bring LOTS of 30+ SPF sunscreen with you and you should be fine. :) Have a great time. Wish I was going too.

Suzanne

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