Before our stop, I had some preconceived notions of Cartagena. Of course, when people think of Columbia they automatically think drugs, and I'm sure this is justified, but we felt completely safe there. The other image that comes to my romantic soul's mind is the movie Romancing the Stone. I did discover that most of the movie wasn't actually filmed in Columbia but I was so excited to visit the city that inspired it. And my own Michael Douglas, Justin, even wore his white linen pants for me!
We docked in Cartagena at 11am, so it was exciting to be up and to be able to watch the land get closer. We even had a police helicopter circle the ship a few times. Once we were off the ship we caught a cab and heading to the Old City. It's great to be able to say that we've officially been to South America! The entire Old City is surrounded by a fortified wall that at one time shielded the city from attacks from invaders at sea. After we got done exploring there, we headed downtown to visit a few emerald stores. Our favorite was Mr. Emerald; it's owned by a guy that is originally from Texas who moved to Cartagena and now gives tours and sells emeralds. We were in town the same day as the President of Columbia, so the security was extra tight that day. Next, we headed to the fortress, El Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. The castle was built in the 17th century, but actually took over 200 years to complete. It was a massive structure that is said to be one of the best and strongest fortresses that Spain ever built in a colony.
Cartagena was a place that truly blew me away with it's beauty, elegance, and history! I can't wait to go back and spend longer in South America!
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