Colombia… Oh Colombia. How much you have brought me!
Alright! Getting in… There are two safe ways of getting into Colombia; boat (Great options from San Blas, Panama as long as its the RIGHT SEASON) and flying. Theres this little southern part of Panama called Darien that is full of thick jungle and savage people making it a clear detour by means of bus or car. Just dont do it.
When flying, you do need to screen shot a fake flight out of Colombia. This was the second (?) time in all of Central America that I was questioned about having an exit flight out of their country. Sidenote: The Airport does not have wifi, and you need to print your boarding pass before you get to the airport or they charge you about $20 USD to do such there. Hard copies are the only thing accepted. Screenshots of exit flights work just fine, I didnt purchase a flight for that.
Flying into Colombia was a few hour journey without any problems. Arriving in Cartagena, a beautiful city surrounded by the Ocean, Wall, many beautiful boldly painted Colonial houses and cobblestone streets. It is breathtaking. Literally. Its like 40 c. (104 d) Its soooo hot!
Brief History of the Wall: 1500s Spanish came and took over a Caribbean town.. In the 16th Century they (Spanish) built a giant cement wall around the town (Known as Old Town) for protection from the French. It then became a slave trade hub. Years later they wanted their independence from Spain. Around 1921 they declared their independence and still are a huge hub for Colombia.
Anyway, Cartagena is amazing. Its Old Spanish architecture is breathtaking. The colored buildings and doors are enough to occupy you for days!
Theres endless restaurants and American food for everyone with a soft stomach. The street foods was divine, hamburgers, pizza, sausage, and grilled meats were just a few that I had to make choices on. They also have a wonderful Bakery that serves about everything you can dream of. From pizza pockets, to cookies, rolls, sweets, you name it and they have it for you!
Staying in the wall and a bit on the outskirts, you should look to spend a few days. If you’re a shopper, you could spend 3-5. They have MANY high end shops. But for the typical backpacker, its a good spot to charge up, meet new people, have an AC hostel, and get ready for the dessert, jungle, ocean, or mountains, afterall, you’re in Colombia and they have it ALL!
The Americas, Putas 