Cartagena’s Coolest Neighbourhoods
Getsemani
Getsemani was once a haven for prostitutes and thieves. It sits alongside the Old City and shares much of its famous architecture, but for years it was considered a no-go zone for tourists. That has all changed, and Getsemani has turned into just about the coolest neighbourhood in Colombia. With a burgeoning street-art scene, plenty of hip bars and hostels, and the lovely Plaza Trinidad – which, every night, is full of locals, travellers, street performers and artists, all basking in the laid-back vibe – a visit to Getsemani is must for any traveller in Cartagena looking for an alternative to the Walled City.
If you are familiar with Vancouver, then I would equal this to the Commercial Drive scene…only way way cooler.
Cartagena’s Coolest Neighbourhoods
Manga
Manga is a leafy residential neighborhood popular for its seafront promenade, which offers striking city skyline views across a yacht-filled bay. At the north end of the promenade, Pastelillo Park has a centuries-old fort with red cannons, and the Club de Pesca, a venerable seafood restaurant dating to the 1950s.
Nearby, the huge Caribe Plaza mall sells international brands and has a popular food court.
This is where I spent my first month in Cartagena. The neighbourhood is safe for a solo female and it only takes 10 minutes to walk into Getsemani and 15 to Centro. It’s residential so you can expect a much quieter lifestyle here.
If you are familiar with Vancouver, then I equal this to Kitsilano area.
Cartagena’s Coolest Neighbourhoods
San Diego
More tranquil then Centro, San Diego attracts the sunset watchers to the seafront city walls, and souvenir shoppers to Las Bovedas, an 18th-century dungeon turned handicrafts market. Plenty of relaxed bistros with patios on and around colorful squares like Plaza San Diego and busy pizzerias and fusion spots to choose from. Cocktail bars in the neighborhood have a cozy, laid-back vibe.
This is where I will be staying for my 2nd month, so I will have more of a opinion in January.
Please note that I have not received these products for free or at a discounted price in exchange for my opinion. There may be links that are affiliate links but at the time of posting this review, I have not received any monetary kickbacks.