Local Picks & Insider Tips

Cartagena: An Open-Air Living Museum

Walking through Cartagena is like strolling through centuries of history on every block. The city walls, colonial balconies, lively plazas—everything sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. It’s a destination where every event gains context, soul, and beauty.
This rich cultural heritage allows for events with a truly unique stamp: dinners in colonial mansions, sunset cocktails on the city walls, and cultural tours between sessions. In Cartagena, business doesn’t just get done—it gets inspired.

Team-Building Activities That Truly Connect

Cartagena offers meaningful and memorable team-building experiences. Some group favorites include:

• Sailing the Rosario Islands: perfect for disconnecting, bonding, and relaxing in turquoise waters.
• Cartagena cooking classes: full of laughter, spices, and shared recipes that bring teams closer.
• Cultural tours with group dynamics: history, heritage, and challenges that build stronger connections.
• Water sports like paddleboarding or snorkeling: great for the adventurous and active participants.

Seamless Connectivity

Thanks to Rafael Núñez International Airport, getting to Cartagena is easy. The city offers direct flights from Bogotá, Medellín, Mexico City, Miami, Panama City, Madrid, Amsterdam, Lima, and more. Plus, it’s just 10–15 minutes from the historic center and hotel zone, simplifying all logistics.

Weather That Works in Your Favor

With an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) and over 300 sunny days a year, planning an event in Cartagena doesn’t rely on weather luck. This stability allows for outdoor programming almost year-round, without setbacks or surprises.

Specialized Services for Event Planners

Cartagena has developed a strong support network for events: logistics companies, audiovisual production, décor, photography, translation, and executive transportation. Everything needed for a flawless experience.

Cuisine to Remember

Cartagena’s cuisine is a fusion of African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences. Whether offering Caribbean flavors or international menus, events in Cartagena are savored—and that leaves a lasting impression.

How Long Should You Stay?

To make the most of what the city has to offer, it’s best to plan for at least two to three days. This allows time not only for the formal agenda but also for networking, cultural activities, and relaxation, enriching the overall group experience.

This concept, widely used for destination weddings around the world, offers an elegant and practical way to reserve a group of rooms for your guests, with preferential rates, exclusive perks, and the peace of mind that your loved ones will be comfortable and well taken care of during the most important weekend of your life.

And when the room block is arranged at a place like the InterContinental Cartagena, the entire experience is elevated to another level.

How Does a Wedding Room Block Work?

Picture this: you reserve a group of rooms at one of the city’s most iconic hotels, with special rates exclusively for your guests. You don’t have to pay for all of them—each guest can book their own room directly, but everyone benefits from the preferential terms you negotiated with the hotel. The hotel then becomes the central hub of your wedding: a place where friends reconnect, family relaxes, and you get to enjoy the weekend without worrying about where everyone is staying.

Exclusive Rates
Your guests receive special prices they won’t find on any online platform.
Es una manera de cuidar su presupuesto y mostrarles que pensaste en cada detalle.

Unbeatable Location
InterContinental Cartagena is oceanfront, just minutes from the historic center, and within easy reach of every kind of venue: haciendas, colonial churches, private beaches, or historic mansions.

Five-Star Comfort
From the infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean to the spa and freshly made arepas de huevo at breakfast, your guests will be on vacation while celebrating with you.

It's Also for You

Booking a room block doesn’t just benefit your guests. It also gives you peace of mind:

A single point of contact for all reservations

• Easier coordination of transportation schedules
• You know where everyone is staying, in case you need to reach them
• You can organize welcome kits or pre-wedding cocktails easily

And the best part: you don’t need to host your wedding at the hotel to take advantage of this benefit. The InterContinental Cartagena team offers room blocks even if your wedding is on the beach, at a finca, or in a separate venue.

Where to Begin?

It’s simpler than you think:

• Talk to your wedding planner or contact us directly. Share your vision, key dates, and estimated number of guests.
• Our team will create a personalized proposal with special rates, a room block, and a custom booking link for your guests.
• Share that link with your guest list—by email, WhatsApp, or even in your invitations.
• We’ll handle the rest: confirmations, follow-ups, guest support, and any last-minute changes.

If you’re planning a wedding in Cartagena, booking a Wedding Room Block isn’t a luxury; it’s a smart move. Because in the end, logistics also shapes memories. And when those memories are bathed in the golden light of the Caribbean, everything feels easier, happier, and truly yours.

Contact InterContinental Cartagena

• Email: kira.elejalde@ihg.com
• Phone: (+57) 3105166569

Why Cartagena Hits Different for Canadians

After experiencing Canada's cozy winter season, there's something almost therapeutic about stepping off a plane into Cartagena's warm embrace. But here's what sets this Caribbean destination apart from the typical beach-and-resort formula that has become predictable as the first snowfall in November.

Cartagena isn't just warm – it's culturally rich in ways that make your typical Caribbean vacation look not that fun by comparison. The UNESCO World Heritage old town, enclosed by 400-year-old stone walls, feels like stepping into a novel by Gabriel García Márquez. These aren't the sanitized colonial facades you'll find in tourist traps; these are living, breathing streets where vendors sell fresh mangoes carved into flowers, and salsa music spills from corner bars at 3 PM on a Tuesday.

The Weather Reality Check (Spoiler: It's Always Good)

Let's talk about what really matters to any Canadian planning an escape: the weather forecast. Cartagena operates on what locals call "eternal summer," with temperatures hovering between 27 °C and 32°C throughout the year. 

Getting There: Easier Than Getting to Timmins

Direct flights from major Canadian cities to Cartagena take just over 5 hours – shorter than many cross-country domestic flights, and infinitely more rewarding. Air Canada and Avianca operate regular routes, and with Colombia's recent visa waiver for Canadians, you require less paperwork to visit Cartagena than to renew your health card.

The Rafael Núñez International Airport sits just 10 minutes from the old city, making your transition from tundra to tropics remarkably smooth. No 3-hour layovers in Miami, no complicated connections – just you, your passport, and a direct path to paradise.

Where to Stay: The InterContinental Advantage

While Cartagena offers everything from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts, the InterContinental Cartagena strikes that perfect balance Canadian travelers appreciate: international standards with local character. Located in the modern Bocagrande district, it offers easy access to both the historic old town and the contemporary beachfront scene.

The hotel's infinity pool becomes your new office view. At the same time, the spa offers treatments using local ingredients, such as Colombian coffee scrubs – because even your skincare routine should reflect the local culture.

Beyond the Beach:

Here's where Cartagena surpasses typical Caribbean destinations. The old city isn't a museum piece – it's a living neighborhood where you can watch artisans work on 300-year-old balconies, then grab the best ceviche of your life from a hole-in-the-wall restaurant that's been family-owned for four generations.

The food scene alone is a compelling reason to take the trip. Forget overpriced resort buffets; Cartagena's culinary landscape ranges from street food that costs less than a Tim Hortons breakfast to high-end restaurants helmed by internationally trained chefs. Try the local specialty, arepa con huevo, from a street vendor at 6 AM, then dine at a high-end restaurant for dinner. Both experiences are authentically Cartagenero, just at different price points.

Island Hopping: Your New Favorite Weekend Activity

A 45-minute boat ride takes you to the Rosario Islands, where you can snorkel in coral reefs that make the Caribbean Tourism Board's promotional photos look understated. Isla del Encanto offers day trips with lunch included, while Playa Blanca provides that Instagram-worthy white sand beach experience without the crowds you'd face in more touristy destinations.

Practical Tips for Canadian Visitors

Pack light cotton clothing and a light rain jacket – you won't need the winter survival gear that currently dominates your closet. Sunscreen is crucial; the Caribbean sun is quite intense, especially for northerners coming from cooler climates.

The Real Talk: Why Cartagena Works for Canadians

After years of being sold the same beach vacation template, Cartagena offers something genuine: a place where history, culture, exceptional weather, and modern amenities converge without feeling artificial. It's warm enough to provide a perfect contrast to Canada's winter season, culturally rich enough to engage your mind, and affordable enough that you won't break the budget.

Whether you're seeking a February getaway or extending your summer into October, Cartagena delivers what every Canadian vacation should: the perfect complement to our beautiful homeland's diverse seasons.

Ready to trade your snow boots for sandals? The InterContinental Cartagena offers specially designed package deals for Canadian travelers. Because life's too short to spend another winter wondering what warmth feels like.

The place that inspired stories — and now, yours

By 50, you know what you like. Cartagena's UNESCO-listed Old Town delivers the kind of beauty that doesn’t feel staged. The colonial walls hold centuries of stories, and the Caribbean light turns every photo into something worth printing.

This isn’t just another coastal escape. Cartagena has evolved — with world-class dining, bold contemporary art, and a cultural rhythm that speaks to travelers who crave more than just scenery.

Walk the stone streets at sunset and you’ll understand why García Márquez made this his muse. There’s magic in the air — and somehow, it feels familiar.

Celebrations with Intention

At InterContinental Cartagena, we know these moments matter. Whether it’s an intimate birthday trip or a gathering of friends and family, we help you design a celebration that feels true to you. We’ll plan the room block for you and your guests, arrange welcome dinners, cocktail hours, or post-brunches right inside the hotel — and ensure everything flows smoothly, from arrival to the final toast. To simplify things even more, we create a personalized booking link just for your event. Your guests can book their rooms at exclusive rates and stay connected to the celebration details — all in just a few clicks.

Suites That Set the Scene

Our ocean-facing corner suites do more than offer a view. They create space — to gather, pause, reconnect. With separate living areas, soaking tubs, and a layout that balances privacy and comfort, they become a natural hub for your group and a retreat when you need quiet.

Concierge Expertise

Our concierge team is deeply connected to the city. That means your party gets priority reservations at Cartagena’s standout restaurants, behind-the-scenes access to museums and galleries, and seamless coordination with trusted local vendors — all without lifting a finger.

Culinary Excellence, On Your Terms

Cartagena’s food scene has evolved into one of South America's most exciting, inventive, and flavorful, rooted in tradition. You’ll find contemporary takes on Caribbean classics and immersive culinary experiences that celebrate local talent.

Prefer to keep things easy? Our rooftop terrace is the perfect setting for private birthday dinners, offering custom menus and dedicated service that allow you to relax and truly enjoy the moment.

Location That Works for You

Our location keeps you close to the action without being in the thick of it. You can explore the Old Town by morning, retreat to your room for a quiet lunch, and head back out in the evening — all without rushing.

And when it’s time for excursions, we’ve partnered with reliable transportation providers to get you and your guests to the Rosario Islands, Castillo San Felipe, or wherever your itinerary leads — in comfort and style.

Weather That Cooperates

Cartagena’s tropical climate stays consistent year-round. Think warm days, ocean breezes, and outdoor celebrations that don’t need a weather backup plan — no matter when you choose to come.

Make It Happen

Turning 50 in Cartagena isn’t just a trip — it’s a way to mark a new chapter, surrounded by people you love, in a place that feeds the senses. With thoughtful hospitality, personalized coordination, and a city full of stories, this celebration will linger long after the candles are blown out.

Reach out to our celebration specialist and let’s start planning:

Kira Elejalde

kira.elejalde@ihg.com | Teléfono: (+57) 310 5166569

Traveling here means having the privilege of experiencing two worlds that don’t exclude each other but rather intertwine to reveal a city that, through its history and contrasts, has established itself as an authentic and complete destination.

The question isn’t which area is “better,” but which one best suits your travel style and allows you to enjoy everything “La Heroica” has to offer.

The Historic Center is Cartagena’s living memory: every cobblestone street, every balcony adorned with bougainvillea, every square and fountain holds centuries of stories. It’s the place where travelers wander through museums, galleries, and restaurants that have turned old colonial houses into true gastronomic treasures.

Bocagrande, on the other hand, represents the Cartagena of today and tomorrow. Its beaches with different vibes, oceanfront hotels, and shopping spots offer a break that blends Caribbean charm with modern traveler comfort. From here, your days can start with the sea breeze on your hotel terrace, continue exploring the city or relaxing on the beach, and end by returning to a spacious, quiet space designed for rest—without being too far from the Historic Center and its history, while enjoying the view, the weather, and the unique energy of the Colombian Caribbean.

The Advantage of a Strategic Location

Bocagrande holds a privileged position that many experienced travelers have come to appreciate. It’s not just about being close to the beach, but about having the flexibility to design each day according to your mood.

From the InterContinental Cartagena, the Historic Center is only 10 minutes away, and getting around is easy thanks to convenient amenities: available parking, smooth vehicle access, and concierge services that make any plan simple. It’s the perfect spot to combine modern comfort with the city’s historic richness.

The Beach as a Genuine Added Value

While from the Historic Center the beach is a destination you need to go to, in Bocagrande the beach becomes a natural extension of your hotel.

The Full Experience: How to Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds

Your perfect day from Bocagrande:

Early morning: Wake up to a peaceful sea view, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and soak up the morning sun on the beach or by the pool.

Late morning: A comfortable 15-minute ride takes you to the heart of the Historic Center for a cultural exploration.

Afternoon: Have lunch at one of the center’s iconic restaurants, visit museums and galleries, and stroll along the city walls.

Late afternoon/evening: Return to Bocagrande for a sunset on the beach, followed by a dinner with panoramic views.

Night: Rest in spacious and quiet rooms.

Flexibility as a Luxury

Being able to switch between two such different environments is not just convenience—it’s freedom. The freedom to adapt your experience to your mood, the weather, your travel companions, or simply your desire to explore or relax.

Bocagrande might be perfect for you if:

• You seek a balance between culture and relaxation
• You’re traveling with family or a group and need spacious accommodations
• You’re planning a stay of more than 2-3 days
• You value modern comforts without giving up authenticity
• You want flexibility to design each day as you wish
• You enjoy the beach as an integral part of your Caribbean experience

The Historic Center might be ideal if:

• Your trip is very short (1-2 nights max)
• Total historical immersion is your top priority
• Nighttime city noise doesn’t bother you
• You prefer to walk to all major tourist attractions

In the end, it all depends on your preferences and how you want to experience the city. What matters most is the ability to design each day at your own pace: get lost in history, enjoy the sun and sea breeze, rest comfortably, and discover every corner in your own way. Cartagena is best enjoyed in your own style.

Bocagrande: Strategic Proximity to Ironman 70.3 Cartagena

Staying in Bocagrande means easy and quick access to the main swimming, cycling, and running circuits of the Ironman 70.3 Cartagena. Here’s why it matters:

• Close to transition points and competition areas
• Access to pre-race training in conditions similar to race day
• Comfort and security to rest between sessions

This location allows athletes to maximize preparation, minimize travel time, and gives spectators the convenience of moving easily to follow the race.

A Logistical Advantage for Families and Support Crews

Ironman 70.3 is not just about the athletes—it’s about the entire ecosystem that surrounds them. Families, coaches, support teams, and spectators turn this weekend into a complex experience requiring precise coordination.

From Bocagrande, everything flows seamlessly:

• Families can enjoy direct beach access for relaxation while athletes train.
• Spectators can easily move between race checkpoints.
• Everyone returns at the end of the day to a space that combines social areas for celebration with quiet environments for recovery.

The High-Performance Nutrition Factor

Nutrition for endurance events is non-negotiable. Athletes arrive with strict eating protocols, precise timing for meals, and dietary needs that cannot be left to chance.

Bocagrande offers the gastronomic flexibility that an event of this caliber demands:

• Predictable, controlled options in hotels
• A wide range of restaurants catering to everything from plant-based diets to high-protein regimens

Recovery and Well-Being Post-Competition

Post-race recovery is just as important as pre-race preparation. Athletes need facilities that support proper recovery:

• Spaces for stretching
• Access to therapy and massage services
• Specific nutrition for recovery
• And above all, an environment that promotes deep rest

Bocagrande provides all this and more:

• Beach and pool access for recovery sessions
• Spas, wellness centers, and fitness facilities
• Proximity to restaurants offering nutritious, balanced meals

The Smart Choice for Ironman 70.3 Cartagena

For Ironman 70.3 Cartagena, accommodation should never be a stress point. Bocagrande offers the complete package:

• Proximity to event activities
• Amenities designed for comfort and recovery
• Flexibility to enjoy everything Cartagena has to offer beyond the race

It’s not just the most practical choice—it’s the smartest one. It allows athletes to focus on performance, families to enjoy the full experience, and everyone to see why Cartagena has become one of the world’s most attractive triathlon destinations.