Wedding Day

Centro de Convenciones Cartagena de Indias

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Dinner and Reception

Hora Loca

Flights booked

Welcome

Welcome to our wedding site. We are super excited and hoping you will join us in Cartagena, Colombia for a celebration of our love and commitment to each other. As the big day approaches, we have created this website with a variety of sections so you won't miss any details and will be well-informed about everything. One important thing, in the RSVP section please confirm your attendance. We would love to invite everyone to our special day but we do have a strict guest list and are only allowing plus one guests in certain situations. If you would like to bring a plus one, please contact the bride or groom to confirm as we have a limit to keep. Please RSVP by September 1. Enjoy this site and thank youfor being a part of our love story!

Our Wedding

Seven years ago, fate brought Selena and Daniel together on the dance floor at a small spot in Arlington called Al Amir. It was an ordinary night, and Selena had no intention of meeting anyone special. In fact, she had told a friend she wasn’t getting dressed up and showed up in workout clothes because she wasn’t going to meet her future husband at "Al Amir". Little did she know how wrong she was. She asked him to dance, and the moment she heard his Colombian accent, she was surprised and instantly attracted to him. He was a great dancer, very polite, and they connected immediately. That night, Daniel asked for her phone number, and he called her the next day. He thought she was sweet, kind, and easy-going. Their first date was a blast, filled with dinner, arcade games, and country dancing. They immediately had a spark. Through the years they became inseparable. Today, they still love dancing together, traveling, and simply enjoying each other’s company. A year after they started dating, Daniel took Selena to visit Colombia on a romantic trip to Cartagena. She immediately fell in love with the culture, food and beautiful city. Now, they are both excited to get married there and share a weekend full of love with their family and friends. Their journey started with a dance, and now, they are excited to continue dancing through life together.

Our Story

Photos

Cartagena is a port city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia where life is warm, tropical, colorful and fun. By the sea, you find the walled Old City, founded in the 16th century, featuring squares, cobblestone streets, and colorful colonial buildings. With a tropical climate, the city is also a popular destination for its beaches. You can reach Barú Island by boat, with its white sandy beaches and palm trees, as well as the Rosario Islands, famous for their coral reefs.

Cartagena Pictures

Flights

We are flying from Dallas to Miami to Cartagena on American Airlines. Spirit also offers flights and other major airlines. The 2 main ways to get to Cartagena are:1. Directly from USA: there are direct flights from: NYC, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale! 2. You can also connect though Bogota with direct flights from: Washington D.C., NYC, Atlanta, Orlando, Dallas, and Los Angeles.&nbsp; Airport: Rafael Nuñez International Airport (CTG)&nbsp;

Required Check Mig Form

You must complete this online immigration form prior to checking in for your flight (both Entrance to Colombia and Departure from Colombia). You can complete the form up to 72 hours prior to your departure and we recommend doing so in advance. This form requests basic information about your trip. You can complete the form on using this link: <a href="https://apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Check - Mig Migration Colombia</a>

Transportation

The old town Walled City is only a 15-20 minute drive from the airport. There will be plenty of taxis lined up when you exit the airport to your left (it should cost about 20,000 Colombian pesos approximately $5 USD - confirm this with your driver in advance). You will need to pay in Colombian pesos so visit the money exchange at the airport first. Cartagena is very walkable and easy to get around. You will not need to rent a car because everything is relatively close and taxis are easily accessible and inexpensive, but we do suggest asking your driver how much it costs to get to your location beforehand. If you plan on exploring outside of the walled city Taxis’ are your best option. While Uber technically works in Cartagena, there are not many drivers so it’s most convenient to jump in a cab.

Money Exchange

Colombia's official currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Exchange foreign currencies into pesos at exchange houses only at airports, hotels, and banks. There are ATMs on the street and most places take debit cards and credit cards. We recommend getting cash at Servibanca ATM machines throughout the city. The fees are significantly less than those at the airport and most exchange houses in the walled city. Colombian Pesos, or COP. The exchange rate is typically around $1 USD = ~4000 pesos. So take the pesos and divide by 4000 to get your dollars. Useful conversions:10,000 pesos = ~2.50 USD25,000 pesos = ~6.25 USD100,000 pesos = ~25 USD You can exchange money at the airport when you arrive at Cartagena. After claiming your checked luggage you will be processed through one more security check point. After the security check point, you will find a currency exchange window right before exiting the airport .If you plan to take a taxi to the hotel We advise you exchange some money prior to leaving the Cartagena airport. Stores, bars and restaurants accept credit cards. However, you will need to exchange money for cab rides, street vendors, souvenirs, etc. We recommend double checking whether your bank charges foreign transaction fees and letting them know you will be traveling abroad to prevent your bank from freezing your card. To see conversion rates visit the following:<a href="https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/convert/?Amount=1&amp;From=COP&amp;To=USD" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Colombian Peso (COP) to American Dollar (USD)</a>

Travel Info

Our wedding will be held just outside The Walled City (Old City) of Cartagena across from the Clock Tower. This is the historic heart of Cartagena where you can find a variety of beautiful boutique hotels as well as restaurants, bars and shops. Staying within or near the Walled City will ensure that you are within walking distance to almost everything you need. The&nbsp;Walled City is very small, and you can walk it in 20 - 30 minutes. Bocagrande is the modern tourist hub for Cartagena and if you stay here you will be right by the beach. Located only 10-15 minutes south of the Walled City by taxi, about a $5 taxi ride (and a 20 minute walk), this area is filled with fantastic beach-lined hotels who's names you will recognize (Hilton, Hyatt, Intercontinental, etc.). AirBNBs or VRBO are amazing in Cartagena and a great option, especially for groups traveling together. Some can fit up to 20 people. If you are debating where to stay, please do not hesitate to contact us! You can also arrange to have someone go clean the apartment/house every day and/or cook meals for you and the other guests.&nbsp;This can be arranged with your host.&nbsp;Just ensure there are A/C and/or hot water options available. When looking for hotel / AirBNB options, feel free to choose any option within the walls or just outside in places like Getsemani (outside the Walled City) or Bocagrande (near the water). Below are some hotel options, but feel free to search on your own.

This hotel was a 17th-century convent and is renowned for its courtyard and Harry Sasson restaurant. The hotel is a 12-minute walk to the wedding location.&nbsp;**Bride and Groom are staying here.

Charleston Santa Teresa Cartagena

Located within walking distance to the wedding venue, this boutique hotel is housed in an elegant Republican building with a rooftop pool and beautiful views of the city.

Sophia Hotel

Built in a 17th century convent; it offers the ideal combination of colonial architecture and French luxury.

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena

Sister hotel to the Sofitel Santa Clara, this sophisticated hotel has a unique view over the Caribbean Sea and overlooks the walls of the Walled City in the exclusive San Diego area.

Las Bóvedas

Boutique hotel within walking distance to the wedding venue. A meeting point between the old Cartagena and modern luxury with a beautiful rooftop view.

Santa Catalina Hotel

This is a restored 16th century colonial house that is now a luxury boutique hotel with a charming mix of colonial architecture with a rooftop pool.

Ananda Hotel Boutique

Near the Walls of Cartagena, this designer hotel has views of the San Felipe de Barajas Castle.

GHL San Lazaro Art Hotel

Colonial style hotel

Hotel Casa La Factoria by Faranda Boutique a member of Radisson Individuals

Located within walking distance to the wedding venue, this hotel has Spanish colonial and French interior design with a beautiful rooftop.

Hotel Capellan de Getsemani

Located in front of the wedding venue, this hotel has modern rooms and a rooftop pool overlooking the water.

GHL Arsenal Hotel

This newer hotel is located in walking distance to the wedding venue. This hotel focuses on a balance between the environment and the community.

OSH Hotel Getsemani

Located in walking distance to the wedding venue, this upscale hotel is a republican construction from the late 19th century and the result of local architectural tradition.

Hotel Monterrey

Beachside resort with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the ocean. About 15-minute taxi ride to the wedding venue.

Hilton Cartagena

This modern hotel is right across from the beach in the Bocagrande neighborhood, outside the Walled City with a beautiful rooftop pool overlooking the ocean. You'll have a 10-minute taxi ride to the wedding venue, and it's walkable to the Walled City.

Hyatt Regency Cartagena

Cartagena's InterContinental is a modern beachfront hotel located in the Bocagrande neighborhood. You will have to take a 15-minute taxi ride to the Centro Historico for the wedding events.

InterContinental Cartagena de Indias, an IHG Hotel

This beachfront hotel has the highest point of the city and a pool overlooking the ocean. The 51 Sky Bar is located on the roof with a 360 degree panoramic view.

Estelar Cartagena de Indias Hotel

Hotels

We invite you to an unforgettable day at the Bora Bora Beach Club on Thursday, January 16 (only available for 18 years +). Just 50 minutes away from Cartagena, you will enjoy this wonderful beach club in the middle of the beautiful Rosario Islands. Video: <a href="https://boraboracartagena.com/en/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bora Bora Beach Club</a> You must be at the dock at 7:30 am. The boat leaves the dock no later than 8:30 am. The cost of the Beach day is approximately $80 per person which includes transportation by speed boat to the island, a welcome cocktail, beach bed, lunch, and transportation back. We will arrive back in Cartagena at about 4 pm. If you are interested in the beach day, please purchase your Day Pass Area Club ticket at this link: <a href="https://boraboracartagena.com/en/inicio/22-day-pass-area-club-cartagena.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">PASADIA ÁREA CLUB Best Beach VIP Cartagena, Colombia.</a> You must purchase your pass ahead of time to reserve your spot. This is an optional excursion and at your own cost. We will not be offended if you choose not to join us. Please note when you go to the site to purchase your ticket it will show in COP, which is Colombian Pesos. Don't worry, it's not $330,000 US Dollars :) $330,000 COP is about $80 USD.

Thursday Beach Day

Let’s take a tour of the city of Cartagena aboard the Colombian party bus: La Chiva!These are colorful painted buses with music that are a customary way to explore the city. Thursday, January 16 from 8 - 10:30 PMPickup time 7:45 PMAttire: Going Out Clothes Join us on a Chiva that will take you around the city for an evening of fun, dancing, and drinks! NOTE: BYOB!!! ADDRESS: Pickup is directly in front of the wedding venue, Centro de Convenciones Everyone is welcome to join us and experience the festive atmosphere of Cartagena’s nightlife. Tickets to the Chiva bus are typically about $100,000 in Colombian Pesos, which is the equivalent to $25 USD. That ticket includes a 2 hour tour, with multiple stops around the city. Food is not included. Chiva tours in Cartagena offer a blend of sightseeing, culture, and entertainment that's hard to replicate elsewhere. They are a fantastic way to explore the city, enjoy local traditions, and have a fun and unforgettable time in Cartagena! This is an optional activity. We won't be offended if you'd rather make your own plans. We understand you may be arriving and need to sleep in to be ready for the wedding weekend or want to do your own thing.

Thursday Night Chiva Party Bus

We invite all of our guests to a sunset cruise on Friday, January 17 from 4:30 - 7:00 pm. This is a special treat from us to welcome you to Colombian nightlife with drinks, music, and a sunset tour around the city on a ship. As customary with Colombian culture, we respectfully ask our guests to wear white attire for the sunset tour. Address: Muelle de la Bodeguita, Centro Historico Boarding Time: 4:30 pmBoat Departs: 5 pmBoat Returns: 7 pm

Friday Sunset Cruise

Q + A

Explore Cartagena

Cartagena’s Old City, also known as the Walled City, is the best place to experience the essence of Cartagena’s history and culture on foot. Here are several options for fun plans and great food during your stay in the city.

EXPLORE THE OLD CITY

Cartagena is packed with history. The walled city is made up of pastel colonial buildings lined with flowers, cobblestone streets, horse carriages, and plenty of restaurants and boutiques. You can walk the city walls, explore the fortress that’s been protecting the city for hundreds of years, and try all of the area’s Caribbean cuisine, from fresh fish to exotic fruits.

STOP BY THE CLOCK TOWER

Monumento del reloj is the main entrance into the Old Town, Cartagena. This monument separates the old city from the rest of Cartagena. Right in the backside of the clock tower is a lively plaza with food and street vendors, music, dancers, restaurants, and access to the rest of Old Town.

LA POPA MONASTERY

This convent that was initially founded in 1607 and fortified two centuries later, is located on the highest point in the city and you’ll get the best views of Cartagena and its beaches from here. There's a chapel with an image of La Virgen de la Candelaria and a beautiful courtyard.

VISIT THE CASTILLO DE SAN FELIPE

The greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards in any of their colonies, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas still dominates an entire section of Cartagena's cityscape. It was commissioned in 1630, and construction began in 1657. It was truly impregnable and was never taken despite numerous attempts to storm it. Some of the original tunnels are lit and are open to visitors. You can enter the fortress and roam around its system of mazes, tunnels and bunkers by foot.

VISIT THE CATEDRAL

Calle de los Santos de Piedra,Work on Cartagena’s cathedral began in 1575, but in 1586, while still under construction, it was partly destroyed by the cannons of Francis Drake. Notable inside are the huge stations of the cross carved in stone.

LA SERREZUELA

La Serrezuela was originally built in 1893 and use to be the central theatre boxing tournaments, concerts and bull-fighting stadium. Over time the building deteriorated, was abandoned and fell into disrepair. Now, the monument is reborn and is center of culture, gastronomy and exclusive shopping.

STOP BY THE HISTORICAL IGLESIAS (CHURCHES)

These iconic Churches are all located in the midst of Old Town and each has a plaza where you can see dancers while you enjoy drink or a delicious Colombian coffee. Catedral Santa Catalina de Alejandria. Iglesia De San Pedro Claver. Iglesia De Santo Domingo.

Getsemaní

The modern neighborhood of Getsemaní is known as one of the coolest neighborhoods on earth according to Forbes magazine. Its main attraction is the Plaza de la Santísima Trinidad, where people gather to drink beer, listen to street artists, and eat grilled arepas at the adjacent stalls. The nearby streets, also known for their picturesque murals, feature lively pizzerias and casual bistros serving Colombian dishes. Craft breweries, cocktail bars, and the salsa bar Café Havana keep the party going into the early hours of the morning. I know my salseros will love this spot!

Beaches

Cartagena is surrounded by beautiful beaches, but they are often crowded and frequented by many vendors. There are many island resorts &amp; beach clubs that are accessible for day trips. Below are some of the most popular! Generally, a day trip includes transfer to the island and back via boat, a meal for lunch and use of the amenities for the day. You are able to book these online or through your hotel concierge. Here are a few recommendations!

Things to Do

Cartagena Map: <a href="https://mercruiser.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/cartagena-overview-map.jpg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cartagena Tourist Overview Map</a> Cartagena Map: <a href="https://mercruiser.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/cartagena-old-town-map.jpg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cartagena Old Town Map</a> Tripadvisor: <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g297476-Activities-a_allAttractions.true-Cartagena_Cartagena_District_Bolivar_Department.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The 15 Best Things to Do in Cartagena</a>﻿ Expedia: <a href="https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/search?d1=2022-08-24&amp;d2=2022-08-30&amp;endDate=8%2F30%2F2022&amp;filter.categories=&amp;filter.duration=&amp;filter.price=&amp;filter.reviewScore=GT4&amp;filter.startTime=&amp;location=Cartagena%20%28and%20vicinity%29%2C%20Bolivar%2C%20Colombia&amp;rid=926&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;startDate=8%2F24%2F2022&amp;swp=on" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Things to do in Cartagena</a>﻿ Google: <a href="https://colombia.travel/en/cartagena-de-indias" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cartagena - Things to do</a>﻿ Videos: <a href="https://youtu.be/kpOj0A2GGXE" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">36 Hours in Cartagena | The New York Times</a>

1. Visit local monuments around the city:•	Torre del reloj•	Museo de la inquisición•	Teatro Adolfo Mejia•	Las Bóvedas•	La India Catalina•	Muelle de los Pegasos•	Museo Naval•	Universidad de Cartagena 2. Visit the Plazas: •	Plaza de los coches•	Plaza de la aduana•	Plaza Santa Teresa•	Plaza de Bolívar•	Plaza Santo Domingo•	Plaza Fernández Madrid•	Plaza San Diego 3. Visit the Churches:•	Iglesia San Pedro•	Catedral de Santa Catalina•	Iglesia Santo Domingo•	Iglesia Santo Toribio 4. Other Things to see: •	Watch traditional local dances in the old towns plazas.•	Visit the Getsemani neighborhood and see its graffiti.•	Visit the National Colombian Aviary.•	Walk along the entire wall of the Old City.

Tourist Links

Restaurants

Nothing beats getting to know a new destination through its cuisine. Here are the must-visit restaurants in Cartagena! Also, don't forget to enjoy the coffee!!

<a href="https://www.andrescarnederes.com/andres-cartagena" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Andres Carne de Res</a> - our fav spot with live shows &amp; dancing, great for steak<a href="https://www.sanvalentinrestaurantebar.com/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">San Valentin</a> - One of our fav spots, live music<a href="https://celelerestaurante.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Celele</a> - an experience, one of the top 15 restaurants in Latin America, great prices<a href="https://maryzielo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mar y Zielo</a><a href="https://www.sofitellegendsantaclara.com/restaurants-bars/1621-restaurant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">1621 by Sofitel</a> (inside Santa Clara Hotel)<a href="https://www.hotelcharlestonsantateresa.com/dining/harry-s-cartagena-restaurant" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Harry's Sasson</a> (inside Charleston Hotel)<a href="https://restaurantecande.com/en/home/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cande Restaurante</a> - One of our fav spots, live music<a href="https://carmencartagena.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Carmen</a><a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi7tO6JjK-GAxVJEmIAHT3zBfsQFnoECBkQAQ&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Frestaurantemare.com%2F&amp;usg=AOvVaw3a3ieglGoziJBrK3yKe7MM&amp;opi=89978449" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mare Restaurante</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/nikucartagena" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Niku</a><a href="https://www.buenavidamarisqueria.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Buena Vida Marisqueria (rooftop)</a><a href="https://en.cafedelmarcartagena.com.co/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cafe del Mar </a>- oceanside cafe for sunset dining<a href="https://sannicolasrestaurantebar.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">San Nicolas</a> - live music <a href="https://cafesanalbertoint.com/?v=0b3b97fa6688" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cafe San Alberto</a> - coffee shop, 9 years on winning global award for best coffee<a href="https://www.abacolibros.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Abaco Libros y Cafe</a> - great coffee

10 Things to taste in Cartagena

1. Eat typical fried food (arepa de huevo, empanada, chicharron)2. Drink Cola Pola (beer &amp; soda)3. Try Mango Biche with Salt and lemon4. Drink fresh juice with local fruits, in water or milk5. Eat Bollo de mazorca with cheese6. Try typical and local sweets7. Bandeja Paisa, typical Colombian plate8. Eat raspao (shaved ice) with lecherita (condensed milk).9. Quench your thirst with a very cold costeñita10. Eat a Colombian Hot Dog

Bars and Nightlife

<a href="https://www.alquimico.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alquimico</a> (bar with rooftop terrace)<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;url=http://www.andrescarnederes.com/menucartagena.pdf&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjdvrmYkK-GAxUEElkFHbrBAGQQhAd6BAhrEAE&amp;opi=89978449&amp;usg=AOvVaw2nlIOd0sqYr9u6eAj66QeM" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Andres Carne de Res</a> (restaurant with shows)<a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/631438613550734/cafe-havana-cartagena/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cafe Havana Bar</a> (live salsa music)<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=&amp;cad=rja&amp;uact=8&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi8zsH1kK-GAxWuEmIAHV6SAqsQFnoECBQQAQ&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Flamovidacartagena%2F%3Fhl%3Den&amp;usg=AOvVaw2f0u0ZbYTGNZkhdFj9gF7V&amp;opi=89978449" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">La Movida Bar</a><a href="https://51skybar.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">51 Sky Bar</a><a href="https://hicartagena.com/donde-fidel/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Donde Fidel Salsa Bar</a><a href="https://www.bazurtosocialclub.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bazurto Social Club</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LaboratorioCartagena/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">El Laboratorio</a><a href="https://www.quiebracanto.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Quiebracanto</a>

Restaurants & Nightlife

Elizabeth Castelo

Addison Leon

Yvette Jones

Veronica Martinez Livingston

Francess Lopez Lewis

Stephanie Borrego 

Amanda Brown

Laura Quinn

Laura Riveros

Tracy Hughes 

Luis Ortega

Larry Brown

Diego Ruiz

Jacob Perez

Anthony Quinn

Edgar Garcia

Humberto Visbal

Jonathan Ruiz

Harvey Montenegro

Wedding Party

Registry

Dear Family and Friends, We are grateful to everyone traveling to celebrate with us in Cartagena and we recognize the investment this requires. Your presence at our wedding is truly the greatest gift we could ask for and we are not expecting any gifts. However, if you would like to contribute in some way, we have set up a honeymoon fund. Any contributions can be sent via venmo or zelle below. Thank you for being a part of our journey and for your unwavering love and support. With love, Selena and Daniel

Selena + Daniel

Selena + Daniel

Photos