Planning first trip to Cartagena. Need advice on:
1. Best area to stay
2. Daily budget
3. Safety concerns
4. Online vs in person?
5. Duration - thinking 12 days
Tips appreciated.
Cartagena — planning trip, need advice
Started by MidwestMark · 24 Mar 2026 · 2023 views
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24 Mar 2026 at 04:59
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25 Mar 2026 at 17:46
Spot on with the prices. That matches what I paid in February.
Austin Alex — Austin, TX
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26 Mar 2026 at 02:23
Not sure I agree about that area. I found the outskirts to be better value.
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26 Mar 2026 at 19:41
I was there in January and prices were exactly as described.
Spent about $97/day all-in. Quality was excellent.
My tip: midweek is golden hour.
Spent about $97/day all-in. Quality was excellent.
My tip: midweek is golden hour.
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26 Mar 2026 at 21:03
How does it compare to the Philippines?
Euro Explorer — Boston, MA
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27 Mar 2026 at 00:34
Thanks for the write-up. Very helpful for my upcoming trip.
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27 Mar 2026 at 08:04
Can confirm. Was there 2 weeks ago and everything checks out.
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27 Mar 2026 at 08:47
How long did it take to feel comfortable and find the good spots?
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27 Mar 2026 at 12:41
This is outdated info IMO. Things have changed since last year. Current prices are actually lower than what's described here.
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27 Mar 2026 at 20:04
100% agree. The atmosphere is hard to beat.
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27 Mar 2026 at 22:36
With respect, my experience was more mixed. But maybe I went at the wrong time.
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28 Mar 2026 at 02:02
Been going for years. The scene has improved recently.
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