Colombia｜When You Find Love in Cartagena

The Caribbean coast of Colombia never cools down—its heat lingers like the enduring love in Gabriel García Márquez's Love in the Time of Cholera, a story set right here in Cartagena de Indias. This kind of love is hard to define—some might even call it twisted, a love that defies morality. But as Romain Rolland said, "Love is an eternal faith." What do you think? Near Plaza Bolívar, in an apricot-colored room above the horse-carriage street, the air carries the bitter almond scent of heartbreak—the opening line of Love in the Time of Cholera and the beginning of my journey. The novel’s humid air and feverish passion? You’ll find them here, in Cartagena. This colonial city breathes the legacy of the Spanish Empire, but with a difference: it’s laced with the salty Caribbean breeze, thick and heavy. At dusk, standing atop the city walls, the golden sunset paints the perfect backdrop for love. Must-See Spots 🌟 Cartagena’s charm lies in its Old Town architecture and free-spirited city walk vibe. Here are the highlights: Inside the Walled City 💒 (All searchable on Google Maps) 📍 Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría – Iconic landmark, perfect for photos 📍 Plaza de los Coches – Lively square with horse carriages 📍 Church of Santo Domingo – Historic and hauntingly beautiful 📍 Walls of Cartagena (Murallas) – Best sunset spot 🌅 Outside the Walls 🏰 📍 San Felipe de Barajas Fort – Epic views, pirate-proof history 📍 Convento de Santa Cruz de la Popa – Panoramic city vistas Island Hopping 🏝️ Barú & Rosario Islands – Crystal-clear "jellyfish sea" (~270,000-330,000 COP) Barú & Bird Museum Tour – Nature meets culture Food Recs 🍽️ La Mulata A no-brainer! Stellar ambiance + food. Must-try: Coco Lemonade and coconut rice. (~60,000 COP) Restaurante Coroncoro A local hole-in-the-wall—basic but delicious. Their fried fish rice (12,000 COP) is huge and heavenly! Stay 🏨 Inside the walled city! For hostels, Casa Movida is a gem—huge beds, hot water, and hotel-like vibes. #HiddenGems #ColombiaTravel #SoloTravel #OffTheBeatenPath #TravelDiaries