Cartagena: Jewel of the Caribbean Coast

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pair-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, poor fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
  [ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dee-ehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [sace]
• 7Siete
  [see-eh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dee-ehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksy-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ....)]

Cartagena was founded on June 1, 1533, by Spanish commander Pedro de Heredia. The city was named after Cartagena, Spain, and quickly became a significant port for the Spanish empire. Its strategic location made it a vital hub for trade and military operations in the Caribbean.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Cartagena became one of the wealthiest ports in the New World due to the booming trade in gold, silver, and other valuable resources. To protect against frequent pirate attacks, the Spanish Crown invested heavily in fortifications. The most prominent of these is the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, an impressive fortress that stands to this day.

In 1610, Cartagena became one of the three seats of the Spanish Inquisition in the Americas. The Palace of the Inquisition, now a museum, was established to try cases of heresy, sorcery, and other crimes against the Catholic faith. This period left a dark yet significant mark on the city's history.

Cartagena played a crucial role in Colombia's fight for independence from Spanish rule. On November 11, 1811, Cartagena declared its independence, becoming one of the first cities in Colombia to do so. This act of defiance was a major milestone in the country's journey toward freedom.

In 1741, Cartagena was the site of a major battle between the British and Spanish empires. Under the leadership of Admiral Edward Vernon, the British launched a massive attack on the city, but the Spanish forces, commanded by Blas de Lezo, successfully defended Cartagena. This victory solidified Spain's dominance in the Caribbean.

Today, Cartagena is a vibrant city that blends its rich historical heritage with modern culture. The city's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and colorful buildings. Cartagena's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Cartagena is served by Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), located about 4 kilometers from the historic city center. The airport offers direct flights from major cities in North and South America. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle to your accommodation. For those arriving by bus, Cartagena's main bus terminal is located approximately 11 kilometers from the city center and is well connected to other major Colombian cities.

Cartagena has various transportation options, including taxis, buses, and bike rentals. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive but ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand. Public buses and small vans (colectivos) are available for travel within the city and to surrounding areas. For a more eco-friendly option, consider renting a bicycle to explore the historic walled city and its surroundings. Ride-sharing apps like Uber are also available.

The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are readily available throughout Cartagena, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious when withdrawing cash and avoid using ATMs at night or in secluded areas.

Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas. Be cautious of pickpockets in busy places like markets and tourist attractions. Areas such as the neighborhoods of La Popa and parts of the outskirts can have higher crime rates. Stick to well-traveled areas and use reputable transportation services. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables.

In case of emergency, dial 123 for police, medical, or fire assistance. The main hospital in Cartagena is Hospital Universitario del Caribe, which provides comprehensive medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies (farmacias) are available throughout the city, often providing over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the tropical climate. Lightweight clothing and sun protection are essential. Avoid overly revealing outfits, especially in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Keep personal belongings secure and avoid eating or drinking on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'Hola.' Colombians are generally warm and polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Cartagena like a local, visit the Getsemaní neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art and local eateries. Enjoy a sunset at Café del Mar on the city walls. Engage with locals at Mercado de Bazurto, the bustling central market, for an authentic experience. Take a Chiva bus tour for a lively and musical way to see the city. Don’t miss trying local delicacies like arepas, ceviche, and fresh tropical fruits.