Cartagena, Colombia: A Costal Feast for the Senses

I spent three unforgettable days exploring Cartagena’s historic walled city, a vibrant blend of colonial charm, rich history, and modern energy. Founded in 1533 by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena was a key port for Spanish trade, attracting merchants, pirates, and diverse cultures from around the world. Its well-preserved walls, built to defend against invaders, now enclose a city bursting with life—colorful architecture, rhythmic music (almost like Cuban music), and incredible food.

Because of the heat, I made a habit of waking up early to roam the cobblestone streets, capturing the city as it came to life, but only after finding a local coffee. Fruit vendors methodically sliced fresh mango and papaya, placing them gently into cups for tourists searching for a local treat. The smells of fresh arepas (flat corn bread) filled the air complimented by the sounds of lively music.

A city tour gave me a deeper appreciation for Cartagena’s complex history. A true melting pot, it has been shaped by Spanish, Greek, German, and Lebanese influences—Shakira, one of Colombia’s most famous artists, has Lebanese roots. Learning about the city’s past added another layer of richness to my experience.

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The Joys of Solo Travel

One of my favorite parts of traveling alone is meeting new people. This time, I connected with Jono from LA and Costa and Alvin from Ukraine and the U.S., respectively. There’s something special about crossing paths with fellow travelers, sharing stories over a cold drink, and knowing that for a brief moment, your journeys are intertwined.

Met Costa and Alvin while watching these local fishermen.

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A Culinary Surprise

One of my most memorable meals was at a bustling cevichería (ceviche, originally from Peru, is a staple in Cartagena). Only later did I realize it was a spot once visited by Anthony Bourdain—what a find! The restaurant was packed, but they squeezed me in at the bar between the cash register and the servers’ station. I didn’t mind at all; being in the heart of the action made the experience even better. The ceviche was fresh, tangy, and absolutely worth the wait.

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Sometimes, when traveling solo, I stumble upon a place that instantly feels like a favorite. This restaurant had everything—great music, a lively atmosphere, and a fantastic veggie pasta that I couldn’t resist ordering more than once. Paired with a good glass of wine, it was the perfect way to end my Cartagena adventure.

Life is good.