General Information
Located on the Colombian Caribbean, with its bay, its sun and its people, Cartagena de Indias
has in recent years become a major meeting point for its incomparable beauty and charm.
A city whose history and monuments led to its being declared an Historical
Heritage of Humanity site, Cartagena today offers special attractions for congresses and major
political and cultural events and festivals, with the support of a first-rate hotel
infrastructure.
Cartagena is a truly fascinating blend of Spanish colonial architecture,
beautiful beaches, the paradise islands of El Rosario and the charming encounter of picturesque
bars and cafés located in its beautiful squares.
Location
Cartagena de Indias enjoys a privileged location on the
Colombian Caribbean coast, and is an important international maritime and air hub, ideal for
industrial and commercial development. It is reached by a one-hour jet flight from Bogotá, the
capital of Colombia.
Temperature and What to Wear
Temperature averages 28°C (80 °F) and relative humidity is
81%. Light, short-sleeved shirts and blouses and fresh fabrics are usually worn.
Places of Interest
Cartagena offers important historical sites such as the San
Felipe de Barajas Fort, La Popa Convent, the Inquisition Palace, and others such as the Naval
Museum, Modern Art Museum and Gold Museum. Beaches include Bocagrande, Marbella, La Boquilla,
Bocahica, Barú, and scuba diving is actively pursued in the beautiful Barú and Rosario
islands.
Money Exchange
Colombia has a few restrictions in place regarding foreign
currency exchange. At the Rafael Núñez Airport and in hotels as well as banks, money exchange
establishments and at the Central Bank (Banco de la República) there are windows authorized to
perform these transactions. Exchange Rate: US$ 1= $ 2,000 as of Mayo 2007 (subject to
daily variations).
Taxes
All purchases made in Colombia are subject to 16% Value Added Tax
Please visit the Cartagena de Indias website at
www.cartagenatravel.com/english/conventioncenter.htm
or
www.cartagenatravelguide.com/cartagena_map2.html |