Winter of 2025 was truly magical, and spending the holidays in Cartagena, Colombia felt like the perfect reward for a lifelong dream in motion. This trip marked a major milestone for me—South America became my sixth continent, leaving only Antarctica to complete my goal of traveling to all seven continents. More than a destination, Cartagena was exactly what I needed to wash away the cold winter blues of the United States and replace them with sunshine, rhythm, and joy.
I began my stay with a beautiful check-in at the GHL Arsenal Hotel, located in the colorful and energetic neighborhood of Getsemaní. This area was the ideal introduction to the city—close enough to the historic Walled City, yet full of street art, music, and vibrant nightlife that gave me an immediate sense of Cartagena’s soul. Each morning started with a satisfying breakfast buffet at the hotel before heading out to explore the layers of culture that make this city so unforgettable.
One of the most eye-opening experiences was visiting Bazurto Market, where everyday life unfolds through bustling aisles of local produce, traditional foods, and handmade goods. From there, I made my way up to La Popa Convent, the highest point in the city, where sweeping panoramic views offered a moment of quiet reflection. Exploring San Felipe de Barajas Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brought history to life and deepened my appreciation for Cartagena’s resilience and cultural richness.
Evenings in Cartagena felt cinematic. One night ended with a memorable dinner and show at Ana restaurant, an Asian-Caribbean fusion spot tucked inside the Walled City where the ambiance was just as impressive as the food. Another highlight was a photo tour through the Walled City and Getsemaní, made even more special by cruising through town in a vintage car —an experience that felt straight out of a classic film. A romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic streets followed, ending with dinner and live entertainment at Morena restaurant, where the aesthetic, atmosphere, and cuisine were truly top tier.
The trip also offered moments of pure luxury and relaxation. A short escape to Isla de Tierra Bomba led me to Eteka Beach Club, one of Cartagena’s most upscale beach clubs and boutique hotels. The spa experience—especially the Viking bath—was incredibly rejuvenating, but nothing compared to the romantic beachfront dinner that evening. Dining by candlelight as the waves of the Caribbean Sea serenaded me was easily one of the most unforgettable moments of the trip.
Adventure and celebration continued with a luxury speedboat ride to the Rosaria Islands, starting with high-energy beach club vibes at Bora Bora Beach Club on Isla Grande. From there, I headed to Cholón, where floating boats, margaritas, and piña coladas created a lively party atmosphere on the water. Back in the city, I checked into the Hilton Cartagena before visiting the National Aviary of Colombia, where I explored Colombia’s stunning native bird species.
One of the most grounding experiences was horseback riding along the beaches of La Boquilla. This was my third time riding, and I could feel my confidence growing as I connected with nature and the rhythm of the coastline. The journey ended on a meaningful note with a traditional Colombian Christmas, filled with festive foods, warmth, and community—an especially beautiful way to celebrate the holidays while traveling solo.
This solo trip to Cartagena was everything I hoped for and more. From rich culture and welcoming people to unforgettable food, music, and experiences, it’s a journey I will cherish forever—and one that reaffirmed my love for travel and intentional living.
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