INN & OUT: CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA
A quick trip to Colombia’s ‘Walled City?’ Here’s where I’d go…
RESTAURANTS:
Carmen: Get a reservation ahead of time! I couldn’t even get in alone, but this place was highly recommended not only by friends, but in everything I read up on. I also did some recon and it looked swanky!
Restaurante Cande: If you only have a night or two, I highly recommend dinner here. You’ll need a reservation as this place is more than a restaurant with live music and dancers, however, I was able to sit at the bar and eat. The Pisco Sour’s were lovely!
La Esquina del Pandebono: A quick grab and go coffee joint, but honestly… its the pastelitos I can’t forget!
Arepas Colombitalia: Street vibes, great for a snack on the go with many different options for fillings. Try all the sauces! Located in Callejon Angosto, so some great people watching and a quick photo or two… then onward to nicer places. Bring cash!
Tip: Also try street Arepas, they’re everywhere and delicious.
HOTELS:
Movich Hotel: Great area (inside the walls of Old Cartagena), cute rooms, great rooftop pool & bar. Will run about $1000 a night.
Ermita, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel: This one is outside the walls of the old city, but… a 10-15 minute walk from the entrance. Is this the nicest boutique Marriott hotel I’ve ever been in? Not really… however, I was able to use my points and they provide free shuttles throughout the day into the city and free breakfast each morning. The rooftop pool was a nice touch.
LIBATIONS:
Alquimico: Ranked #10 on the ‘World’s 50 Best Bars.’ Much like the #1 in Barcelona, its all about the show. That said, they were able to cater to some off-menu challenges. They also brought me a surprise birthday dessert which was sweet, literally. FYI, even with 3 floors (including a rooftop bar) a line will develop to get in here. Todo bien, it moves quick!
El Baron: Also ranked, #66 on the ‘World’s 50 Best Bars,’ which I found interesting? This place is a bit quieter and also serves food. The theme of the cocktails on menu was all based on history, loved that! PS: This is a great spot to day-drink with lovely cocktails.
Mondo: Adorable and intimate little tiki bar. Great for for Instagram photos… cocktails were good, they seem to stick to the menu.
ACTIVITIES:
La Paletteria: If you think you don’t like popsicles, try this. I had a ‘tres leches’ flavor and I still can’t stop thinking about it. Don’t forget to bring cash here, no cards! Good luck not going back again and again!
Tip: Just walk around… the architecture is gorgeous as is the vibe. Cuidado, the street vendors are relentless!
Cheers, gents!
By, Brian McAleer
CEO & Co-Founder
Gent Life
