Santa Marta: The Caribbean Heartbeat of Colombia

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• 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?
  [byen. 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 vehr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah pah-gahr, por 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/a
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh/ah]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]

• 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 meer-ahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kweh-stah]
• That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
  [eh-soh ehs moo-ee kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-har ehl pree-see-oh]

• 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
  [sehs]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-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?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ssee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (para ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (pah-rah)]

Santa Marta, founded on July 29, 1525, by Spanish conquistador Rodrigo de Bastidas, is one of the oldest surviving cities in Colombia. As the first Spanish settlement in Colombia, it served as a crucial point of contact between the New World and Spain. Bastidas chose the site for its strategic location, natural harbor, and access to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains.

Before the arrival of the Spanish, the region was inhabited by the Tayrona civilization, an indigenous group known for their advanced agricultural practices, urban settlements, and intricate goldwork. The Tayrona people thrived in the region for centuries, leaving behind a legacy of archaeological sites, such as Ciudad Perdida, also known as the Lost City.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Santa Marta was a frequent target for pirate attacks due to its strategic location and wealth. Notable pirates such as Francis Drake and John Hawkins raided the city, leading to its fortification. The construction of the Santa Marta Cathedral, the oldest church in Colombia, was partially driven by the need for a stronghold against pirate invasions.

One of the most significant historical events in Santa Marta is the death of Simon Bolivar, the liberator of much of South America from Spanish rule. In 1830, after resigning from the presidency of Gran Colombia, Bolivar sought refuge in Santa Marta. He spent his final days at the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, a hacienda that has since been turned into a museum honoring his legacy.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Santa Marta experienced significant economic growth due to the banana trade. The United Fruit Company established plantations in the region, bringing infrastructure development and an influx of migrant workers. However, this period was also marked by labor disputes and the infamous Banana Massacre of 1928, when the Colombian army killed striking workers.

Santa Marta is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals that celebrate its rich history and diverse population. The Fiesta del Mar, held annually in July, is one of the city's most significant events, featuring parades, music, and maritime activities. The region's cultural heritage is also reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditional crafts, blending indigenous, African, and Spanish influences.

Santa Marta is surrounded by natural beauty, from the pristine beaches of the Caribbean coast to the lush jungles of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The Tayrona National Natural Park is a major attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore tropical forests, archaeological sites, and diverse wildlife. The region's biodiversity and scenic landscapes make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.

Santa Marta is accessible via Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR), located about 16 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights connect Santa Marta to major Colombian cities such as Bogotá and Medellín. International travelers can reach Santa Marta by connecting flights through Bogotá or other major hubs. Additionally, Santa Marta is well-connected by bus services from other Colombian cities, with frequent routes operated by several bus companies.

In Santa Marta, transportation options include taxis, buses, and moto-taxis. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive, but it is advisable to agree on the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running. Local buses are a cost-effective way to get around and connect various parts of the city. For a more adventurous option, consider using moto-taxis, which are motorcycle taxis. Car rentals are also available for those looking to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace.

The official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. Currency exchange services can be found at the airport, major banks, and exchange offices in the city center.

While Santa Marta is generally safe for tourists, it is important to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Notable areas where tourists should exercise caution include the neighborhoods of Pescaito and La Paz, which have higher crime rates. Always keep personal belongings secure and be wary of pickpockets in crowded places. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid displaying valuable items.

In case of emergency, dial 123 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, medical, and fire services. The main hospital in Santa Marta is Hospital Universitario Fernando Troconis. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing due to the tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing attire in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Dress modestly and avoid disruptive behavior. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly or pregnant passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Hola' is a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be open to street food. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Santa Marta like a local, visit the Mercado Público for fresh produce and authentic local foods. Spend time at the beach, particularly Playa Blanca, which is popular among locals. Engage with Santa Marta's vibrant nightlife scene by visiting bars and clubs in the El Rodadero area. For a cultural experience, take a walk through the historic center and visit the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, Simon Bolívar’s final resting place. Don't miss the Taganga fishing village for a taste of local life and excellent diving opportunities.