Do’s

• Keep your belongings safely zipped up and close to your body.
• Do haggle with shopkeepers and taxi drivers if you think they are overcharging, but don’t be aggressive.
• Always carry enough cash in hand. The country is still a cash economy, and it can be tricky to pay on credit card, especially in remote areas of the city.
• Dress appropriately when you are visiting a beautiful place. It is considered rude to turn up to a restaurant or club in shorts and flip-flops.

Dont’s

• Never buy cocaine. It is illegal in the country.
• Don’t walk outside the Old Town after sunset as it can be hazardous– always take a taxi.
• Never refuse when a friendly Colombian offers you a shot of the local spirit. It’s not seen as a drinking thing in Colombia; it’s more like an offer of friendship and unity!
• Never make jokes about guerrillas or Pablo Escobar as people here are serious about their history.
• Never "give papaya."This Colombian expression roughly translates as ‘give an opportunity.’ You shouldn’t make it easier for someone to take advantage of you. Be vigilant always.

Cartagena will seem like a warm and sleepy town during the day, but it is when the sun goes down that the city wakes up. While it can't compete with the clubs of Las Vegas or New York, it has an equally sexy style and spirit. There are numerous fun and exhilarating activities you can indulge in. From local eateries to upscale clubs, you will get everything you ever wanted. If you are into partying, there are a bunch of great places you can visit. Most of the bus bars are located in the El Centro and Getsemani neighborhoods and filled with mostly locals dancing to the groovy music. Upscale clubs are also quite popular with tourists. They usually have dress codes, so be sure to wear your best. There will be a lot of drinking and dancing, so get ready to sweat it out. You will also find many street parties happeningJust grab a drink and go with the flow. Partying on a Chiva Bus is a highlight among tourists in Cartagena. A ride on these colorful wooden buses with party lights and loud music can be entertaining. If you like to spend a quiet night, try some local seafood and drinks at one of the many restaurants in town or take a horse-drawn carriage ride along with the old city and enjoy the beautiful lights.

• Explore the Old City and its colonial architecture and picturesque streets. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. 
• Visit the incredible fortress Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas and go back in time.
• Spend a day at Islas del Rosario located in the crystal clear Caribbean waters.
• Have a drink at the famous Cafe del Mar located along the walls of the old city and watch the sun go down while sitting outside overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
• Get the best views of Cartagena and its beaches from a top Convento De La Popa.
• Explore vibrant street art at Getsemani.
• If you love precious gemstones and expensive jewelry, don’t miss the emerald discovery tour and The Gold Museum.
• Tour the Bazurto Market. It is massive, chaotic, loud, and filthy, not a typical tourist spot, but it is an excellent place to mix with the locals.

• Hop on board a Chiva- a colourful, rustic party bus complete with music, dancing, and an open bar.
• Take a mud bath in El Totum, a small volcano with thick bubbling mud.
• Hit a funky salsa bar and dance the night away.
• Take a walk along the walls of the old city and explore its well-preserved canons and lookout posts.
• Ride on a horse carriage after dark around town and enjoy the amazing city lights.
• Try some exotic fruits that you have never tasted before.
• Go scuba diving or snorkelling in one of the many beaches around the city.

• Colombian Coffee
• Mochila Shoulder Bag
• Aguardiente (Colombia’s national drink)
• Colombian Chocolate
• Bikinis and Beachwear
• Caña Flecha Products
• Leather Products
• Hammocks
• Emeralds