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When we think of the Caribbean, we often think of a cluster of paradisal islands ranging from The Bahamas to Jamaica to passport-free Puerto Rico.
However, some of the prettiest Caribbean coastlines actually lie in popular vacation cities, such as Cancun.
Colombia’s version is the coastal city of Cartagena, and despite Colombia having some stunning Caribbean islands off the radar of most travelers, it’s Cartagena that makes for a perfect spring getaway for both its mesmerizing Colonial streets and awe-inspiring seaside.
Recently named by the New York Times as one of the Caribbean’s most affordable getaways, savings are merely a bonus for what’s certain to be your favorite trip this year.
Where Timeless Streets Meet Caribbean Blue Waters
Whenever Americans need an international vacation, Cancun is usually the one that comes to mind.
The problem with Cancun is it’s basically a place to park your butt beachside or lounge at the swim-up bar.
In other words, there’s not much to Cancun as far as history. And there are only so many times you can hit up Señor Frogs, right?
Cartagena offers a great balance of urban explorations all while having the vast Caribbean as your backdrop in arm’s reach.
Visiting Cartagena’s Old Town is a must. Brimming with 16th-century plazas, ornate cathedrals, and of course, cozy cafes whipping up world-renowned Columbian coffee, perusing this historic district offers something Cancun can’t – Old World charm away from the curated ritzy resorts.
Spring is a great time to plan your trip, too, thanks to the city’s tropical weather. There are splendid sunny days from now through May, and the average temperature is 89 degrees.
Don’t skip the Getsemani district either; arguably the hippest neighborhood of the city with buzzing bars, nightclubs, and sightly streets murals.
Cartagena’s Beautiful Beaches
Cartagena offers not only a unique blend of cultures unlike Bogota, Medellin, and Cali, but some of the prettiest shores in the nation.
Whether you’re wandering Old Town or taking a nice stroll along the beach, every corner is an Instagram post waiting to happen.
You may not know it, but a springtime beach getaway in Cartagena is just before the summer humidity turns this vibrant city into an unbearable sauna.
I know I’ve been comparing Cartagena to Cancun, but that’s only because it’s also an easy-to-reach international hotspot for beach vacations.
In reality, it’s probably more comparable to Miami, especially the city’s upscale Bocagrande neighborhood.
But the best beaches are actually offshore, believe it or not. You gotta check out the Rosario Islands by boat.
Our writer, Dale, swears these stunning islands were the highlight of her trip to Cartagena last summer.
For what it’s worth, TripAdvisor recommends these 5 Cartagena beaches this spring:
- Playa de Castillo Grande
- Playas de Marbella
- Miramar Beach Club
- Playa de Bocagrande
- Manzanillo del Mar
Cheap Stays & Budget-Friendly Flights
Cartagena truly has it all, but one could argue the most significant selling point is how affordable this city is across the board.
Whether it’s $1 street arepas, $2 cups of piping hot Colombian coffees, or some of the Caribbean’s cheapest stays, you don’t have to constantly check your bank account while you’re supposed to be relaxing and enjoying a nice beach getaway.
Given that the city has essentially two sides, let’s start with some options for making your base in and around Old Town. Here, you can wake up amidst a colorful array of centuries-old buildings and walk a short distance to a cafe.
My top choice for a boutique stay would be Hotel Marie Real Cartagena, mere steps from some of the area’s top rated restaurants and only $52 per night throughout spring.
But, if you opt for a beachside stay (and who wouldn’t?!), how about a 5-star stay for under $100?
Almirante Cartagena Hotel is only $95 through May. But, if you prefer a name you know and trust, Hilton Cartagena Hotel is slightly more in the $120 range.
For further savings, low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines offers direct flights out of Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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