ABOUT YOUR STAY IN CARTAGENA

What will the wedding weekend look like?

Guests are welcome to arrive any day they prefer but are encouraged to arrive by Friday, February 6th. The bride and groom and family will be arriving Thursday, February 5 and leaving Monday, February 9. We will host a welcome party for all guests on Friday evening. On Saturday, the wedding activities will start in the afternoon and last till late at night. Sunday, guests are welcome to join us for an optional farewell beach day. After that, guests are free to travel back or continue vacationing!

Where should we stay?

All our wedding events are located in the city's historic center, also known as the Walled City. We recommend staying in this area for the most convenient experience. Getsemaní is another great option nearby with a more bohemian and artsy vibe. Bocagrande, which is 5-10 minutes away by taxi, offers beachfront options. You are welcome to stay wherever you feel is best! Please check out our Accomodations section for our recommended hotels.

Do I need a passport?

YES! All travelers to Colombia MUST have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Please check your passport expiration date now if you haven't already.

How do I get to Cartagena?

Guests will fly into Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) to arrive in Cartagena. As of March 6, there are direct flights out of New York JFK, Atlanta ATL, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. Most other flights will have a layover in one of those cities. We will be traveling from Denver and will have a layover!

When should I book by?

We recommend booking flights at least 6 months in advance. Since February is the busiest time for weddings in Cartagena, we recommend booking hotels and accommodations as soon as you know you're coming.

What should I pack?

- Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets

- Comfortable clothes for warm weather

- Welcome party attire (beachy chic / casual)

- Wedding day attire (tropical formal)

- Bathing suit

- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

- Bug repellent

What is the best way to get around town?

If you stay within the city's historic center, most locations are within walking distance. If you stay in Bocagrande, Uber is available to get into the Walled City. Ubers are $2-4 around Cartagena. Ubers from the airport start at $10. You will not need to rent a car.

Is Cartagena safe?

Yes! Cartagena is a safe city, especially in the historic center that caters to tourists. Just be aware of persistent vendors and them giving tourist prices.

What will the weather be like?

February in Cartagena is part of the dry season, with typically beautiful and sunny days. You can expect average temperatures between 75-85°F during the day and pleasant evenings around 75°F. Warm and tropical during the day. Breezy and beautiful at night.

What general travel tips do you have for Cartagena?

- Time Zone: Cartagena operates on Colombia Time (COT), which is the same as Eastern Standard Time (EST) in February.

- Currency: The local currency is the Colombian peso (COP). For quick conversions, divide by 4. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's helpful to carry cash for smaller purchases, street vendors, and tips. Pro tip: Order pesos through your bank before leaving for the best exchange rate!

- Language: Spanish is the primary language. While many locals in tourist areas speak English, downloading a translation app like Google Translate can be very handy.

- WhatsApp is recommended to communicate with us and locals in Colombia.

- Google Maps can navigate you well in the Walled City. You can also download a city map beforehand to access it offline.

- Before accepting any product or service, always ask for the price.

- When you arrive at immigration, you will be asked where you are staying - have your accommodation details ready.

- Consider getting an eSIM for data cell service. Check your carrier's costs and fees for data roaming.

- 30 minutes of free WiFi at the airport (gratis) to order an Uber will be available upon arrival.

ABOUT THE WEDDING EVENTS

What is the dress code for the wedding?

The dress code is tropical formal attire! We encourage all our guests to embrace bright and vibrant colors that match Cartagena's colorful vibe. For women, think dresses in bright colors, patterns, or vibrant solids. For men, lightweight or linen suits are perfect. We want everyone to have fun with their attire while looking their best and prioritizing comfort! If you'd like some inspo, feel free to scroll my Pinterest board here.

What is the dress code for the welcome party?

The welcome party is more laid-back, but still a great chance to dress up if you’d like! Think beachy chic or tropical cocktail attire—flowy dresses, fun prints, breezy linen sets, or a nice button-up with pants. Whether you prefer something stylish yet comfortable or want to go a bit dressier, it’s totally up to you. No white, please!

How do I join the beach day at Blue Apple Beach?

This is not a reserved event, just a casual gathering for anyone who wants to join! If you'd like to come, you'll need to book your own spot directly through Blue Apple Beach. Boats depart from Cartagena at 10:00 AM & 11:30 AM, with return trips at 4:00 PM & 5:30 PM. If you’d rather sleep in and explore Cartagena at your own pace, no worries at all! Later in the evening, we’ll also find a spot to watch the Super Bowl, so feel free to join us for that instead (or both!).

How will we get to the wedding events?

Most hotels are within walking distance of our venues! However, if you choose to book outside the city's historic center, you will have to order an Uber to the Walled City. Ubers throughout the city are very affordable.

Why did you choose Cartagena?

WHY NOT!? Celebrating in Cartagena allows us to blend Mateo's Colombian roots with our shared passion for adventure! We fell in love with this magical city and knew it would be the perfect backdrop to begin our marriage surrounded by loved ones.

Will there be any vegan/vegetarian/special diet options?

Vegan and vegetarian options will be available. For specific requests or restrictions, please let us know on your RSVP.

What if I can't make it to the wedding?

No matter the reason, it is no problem at all if you cannot attend our wedding. Just make sure that you let us know! Additionally, if any of your +1s cannot attend, please reflect that in your RSVP.

If I still have questions, what is the best way to contact you?

Feel free to text or email us if you have any additional questions!

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

What should I know about local customs?

- Street vendors: There are many vendors in Cartagena. They are friendly and persistent. "No, gracias" is recommended if you are not interested.

- Street performers & rappers: There are many local performers in Cartagena. If you want to be entertained, be prepared to tip.

- Beaches: City beaches can be crowded with vendors. For a more relaxed experience, consider a day trip to a nearby island (or join us at Blue Apple Beach on Sunday!)

- Nightlife: Cartagena comes alive at night, with music and dancing in plazas and bars throughout the historic center. Explore and enjoy!!

- Airport departures: Give yourself ample time to leave Cartagena, as airport lines can be long.

Useful phrases in Cartagena:

Cuánto cuesta? = How much does it cost?

Permiso = Excuse me (great for moving past someone)

Disculpe = Excuse me (great for getting someone's attention, like a waiter)

Boda = Wedding

La cuenta = The check

Propina = Tip

Habitación = Room

Dónde está…? = Where is…?

Tienes cambio? = Do you have change?

Me encanta = I love it

Qué chévere! = How cool! (locals will love this one!)

Nos vemos! = See you later!

Our final advice...

Be curious! Treat yourself! Make it a vacation! Ride a horse carriage! Look at art! Buy art! Eat ceviche! Eat street food! Kiss in public! Hold hands! Stop and watch performances! Stop and get a beer in a plaza! People watch! Don't be grumpy!!! See something you love? Buy it!!!! Baila! Get intoxicated! By love! By aguardiente! Follow the sounds of salsa! Find a rooftop! Buy a coconut in the street! Take photos! Try exotic fruit! Enjoy a beach day! Watch your step! Mingle with strangers! Make new friends!