FAQs
Question
What should I know about Cartagena?
Answer
For starters, Kristine’s mom/maternal side of the family is Colombian, from a city called Pereira. Colombia was also their first trip together! Founded in 1533, Cartagena is a vivacious city that was once the key colonial port for the Spanish empire in the Americas. Located on the sea, Cartagena's walled "Old Town" is filled with squares, cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings - and the location of wedding! Tourism has expanded rapidly over the last decade, leading to the development of many beautiful boutique hotels, fine dining restaurants and nightlife.
Question
Traveling to and from Colombia
Answer
You will need to complete the Check Migración form with 72 hours from your departure to Colombia as well as when returning back into the US. If you don’t have this completed, you won’t be allowed to board the plane or get through customs upon your return into the US. Given that wifi at airports can be spotty, we recommend you do this in advance. Here is the link- https://apps.migracioncolombia.gov.co/pre-registro/en/ When returning to US, you want to arrive at the Cartagena airport at least 2 hours before your boarding time. The airport is small but if there are multiple flights departing at the same time, the gate/security line is very long. There is no TSA pre check/priority at the Cartagena airport.
Question
What is the dress code?
Answer
For Wedding Ceremony & Reception the dress code is Black Tie Men- Black tie, means your jacket should be black, please no other colors. If you are looking to rent, JG recommends using TheBlackTux.com. Ladies- I am encouraging what is known as Tropical Black Tie. This means floor length dresses (typical black tie) BUT you should consider a gown in bright, fun, tropical colors that match the vibrancy of Cartagena KC here- It should go without saying but please avoid white attire for all events unless otherwise specified.
Question
What should I know about foreign currency and tipping in Colombia?
Answer
Most places take credit and debit cards. However, you will need Colombian pesos (COP) for taxis and if you would like to tip throughout your stay. To exchange foreign currencies into Colombian pesos, there are exchange houses at airports, hotels and banks. For tipping 10% is customary, and typically included in the bill. If you choose to tip more, feel free to do so. Note- Your taxi ride from the airport to your hotel should cost ~$25,000-$30,000 COP which is about $6USD.
Question
What will the weather be like this time of year?
Answer
The weather in Cartagena is tropical and warm all year. In late February, you can expect a high of 90° and a low of 76° - with a pretty strong chance of humidity.
Question
Will the wedding be outdoors?
Answer
The ceremony will take place in a local church. Immediately following, cocktail hour will take place in the courtyard of the wedding reception venue. The main reception will take place inside, with a lot of AC.
Question
What should I know about General Safety?
Answer
Old Town is a tourist-heavy location with a strong law-enforcement presence. While heightened awareness of petty crime during travel to a foreign country is always wise, general safety should not be an issue during your stay.
Question
Are street food and tap water OK to consume?
Answer
Yes! Cartagena has safe running water, you can drink the water at the hotels and restaurants. Street food is also safe, and a great way to enjoy authentic cuisine. While a degree of caution when traveling is always smart, there's no need to brush your teeth with bottled water