Flew Copa from Boston to Cartagena thru Panama. Easy and inexpensive. Bid and got the business class upgrade which seemed worth it, even for a shortish flight. No time change which makes for easy acclimation.

Stayed at Casa Del Arzobispado. Loved location, pool, spa and adjoining restaurant Epoca where we had delicious breakfast and coffees every morning. Highly recommend.

Arrived late on a Wednesday night and hotel set up a walking tour for first thing Thursday morning. Got our bearings with our knowledgeable guide Sandy who showed us popular and secret sites. Very enjoyable few hours.

Walked and shopped a bit (a couple of nice bilingual bookstores) and had a roof top drink followed by dinner at Sambal in the Getsemani neighborhood. Casual delicious small Caribbean style food. Tables close together so met our friendly neighbors and talked to them a bit.

Spent Friday walking and touring Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. Weather blistering hot, was glad I had a sun hat. Cooled down with massages and pool afterwards followed by dinner at Alma which we enjoyed. A bit formal and quiet but we went on the early side.

Walked to the beach area on Saturday over by the modern hotels. Enjoyed the walk but the beach was crowded and dirty. Not even a nice café to stop by a drink. It was either a trip to the Rosario islands or a walk to the beach and we decided to stay close.

Watched the sunset from the city walls and then ate at Ana Restaurant (used to be called Maria) for dinner. Lots of street activity which was lively and tons of fun- Easter parade, party goers, tourists, street vendors, shoppers, school children etc…. Quite a scene. Live music at dinner too which added to the atmosphere.

All in all, really loved the visit. I’ve haven’t seen or experienced much of South America and would return without hesitation, especially to Cartagena.