Cartagena—what a wonderful metropolis! I traveled right here for 3 months, and on this Cartagena digital nomad information, you’ll discover out if it’s the best base for you.
📬 Hola Trisha! I’ve been following you ever because you began backpacking South America in 2013. I actually love your tales and it made me determine that I wish to be a Cartagena digital nomad. I used to be truly Mexico as I do know you might be there in the meanwhile however I can’t assist to consider the Caribbean. I discover Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum tremendous costly! Are you able to please give me suggestions, recommendation, and an total outlook on how life as a Cartagena digital nomad is? I actually recognize all of your articles and I want you all the very best on this life! Hopefully, I can be a part of the digital nomad way of life quickly!
– Michael Driscoll, Spokane, WA
Hello Michael!
Congratulations on making the transfer to change into a digital nomad! And Cartagena is an efficient selection! You might be proper, the Caribbean facet of Mexico is basically costly so Cartagena is an efficient selection!
I stayed in Cartagena for 3 months (twice) and on this publish, I’ll share with you some insights on what’s it wish to be a Cartagena digital nomad.
If there’s something that wasn’t answered on this publish, please be happy to e-mail me or ship me a message on Instagram. I’ll undoubtedly replace this publish for you.
Good luck and I want you all the very best!!!
Xx,
Trisha
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🇨🇴 Fast Information: Cartagena Digital Nomad Information
💃 Cartagena digital nomad private expertise
I didn’t plan to remain longer in Cartagena, however after I realized how comfy I used to be as a digital nomad, I made a decision to. The primary motive I stayed lengthy was that I used to be taking salsa courses.
Initially, I used to be simply doing the tip-based salsa courses in Cartagena however I made a decision to up my salsa recreation by hiring knowledgeable. It was solely $25 USD per class! Plus, Colombia is the very best place in Latin America to study salsa. They understand how to do that!
In fact, I thought of the Web when it got here to being a Cartagena digital nomad. At first, I used to be staying at Selina Cartagena, which has the status of getting the very best Wi-Fi connection (and greatest co-working area) in Latin America, however I wanted to pay further for the quicker Web connection.
Their Web (with out the co-working subscription) is already respectable however I nonetheless wished an incredible area to work in. After some time, I couldn’t keep in a hostel anymore, and renting an condominium in Cartagena will save me extra money, particularly when I’m staying long-term.
I didn’t know in regards to the Web velocity in Cartagena till I met a neighborhood who had an Airbnb and a restaurant. The condominium was a part of the cafe. The velocity in the home is simply okay however then that they had fiber optic 100 MBPS within the cafe!
Additionally they let me work within the cafe even when it’s already closed. It was a win-win deal! The one drawback with that is that the home was actually small even for one individual.
General, I by no means had any difficulties as a digital nomad in Cartagena Colombia. It’s considered one of my favourite areas in Colombia because it’s really easy to go to the Colombian coast like Santa Marta.
⛔ Is Cartagena protected for digital nomads?
As I lived in Colombia, I by no means actually needed to be vigilant about residing in Cartagena. First, nothing unhealthy occurred to me right here plus my appears to be like may go for being Colombian.
I additionally converse Spanish fluently, which is at all times one of many key components that I really feel assured in touring alone as a digital nomad, particularly in nations like Colombia with unhealthy press for security.
Since Cartagena is occasion central and has a vibrant nightlife, have enjoyable, get drunk, and exit, however be conscious of your phrases and actions as a foreigner. Keep in mind, this isn’t your nation so be very attentive about your conduct with out compromising your actual persona.
Don’t go along with individuals you don’t know each women and men. I say this quite a bit, however I at all times exit with strangers in Cartagena.
However this, my pals, is a talent. That you must belief your intestine as a substitute of being paranoid and considering that one thing unhealthy will occur to you. Unhealthy issues occur all over the place, not simply in Colombia.
As common, I at all times base security on my private experiences, however in the event you take a look at it from a foreigner’s perspective, Cartagena is a brilliant widespread trip vacation spot for People, so town won’t ever do something to interrupt tourism and even taint its status in the case of security.
I traveled to Cartagena solo quite a bit as a feminine and didn’t see any points. I’d stroll again to my lodging on my own at 3:00 AM. Cartagena is a loud metropolis and is lively until the wee hours of the morning (particularly on weekends) so there’s at all times road exercise.
I keep away from strolling in darkish streets on my own, however that’s it. It’s a reasonably fundamental security precaution that you just additionally must observe all over the place. Personally, nothing unhealthy occurred to me whereas in Cartagena, and I felt actually protected! However I’m solely speaking about vacationer areas like Previous City.
There are numerous dodgy areas in Cartagena, so at all times be conscious, particularly if you will hire an condominium exterior of the middle.
💰 Value of residing in Cartagena, Colombia
The price of residing in Cartagena is reasonably priced although it’s a touristy spot. It’s not that widespread with expats and digital nomads but, so costs are nonetheless very Colombian.
You’ll find furnished lodging (85 m2/900 sqft) for $600 USD that’s positioned within the heart. Within the regular areas, you will get half the value for a similar dimension and format.
I truthfully discover the utilities costly (i.e. fuel, electrical energy, and many others). I don’t know why one time I needed to pay $75 USD however this was after I was constantly utilizing the air con. Cartagena can get actually scorching however it is advisable be conscious of electrical energy use.
In terms of consuming out, Cartagena is basically low cost, particularly if you will native eating places. These native eating places serve high quality meals so don’t fear about getting sick.
Cartagena is blessed to be subsequent to the ocean so count on an incredible number of seafood. The meals of the Colombian coast is method totally different from the remainder of the nation. I meet lots of people who say they don’t like Colombian meals however I at all times inform them it’s as a result of they’ve solely been inland (Bogota, Medellin, and many others) so the meals is so totally different!
Avenue meals in Cartagena can be a should! Arepas is on the road at lower than $5 USD, and so they’re principally domestically owned, so count on it to be among the best on the coast! One of the best Cartagena road meals may be discovered on the most important plaza the place the church is.
General, you may simply reside in Cartagena as a digital nomad for lower than $1,000 USD monthly.
Is it costly to reside in Cartagena, Colombia?
Colombia is an inexpensive nation however Cartagena isn’t the most cost effective digital nomad base in Colombia. Cartagena is a well-known vacationer vacation spot that has a seaside so count on costs to be greater.
However nonetheless, if you’re incomes in USD, you may reside fairly nicely in Colombia! As “costly” is subjective and private, I’ll share my bills whereas residing in Cartagena as a digital nomad.
A bit of one thing about me: as a digital nomad, I prioritize the next bills (in US {dollars}):
- FOOD! I like meals and I can’t be bothered to eat simply no matter. I must eat nice meals!
- Espresso is a part of my each day bills. I journey with a Nespresso machine (critically!) however since Colombia is a espresso nation, I didn’t carry the machine right here.
- Wine can be my each day jam. I at all times have a glass for dinner or brunch.
| Merchandise | Value |
| Month-to-month hire, furnished, heart (with wifi) | $900 |
| Primary lunchtime menu (centro) | $13 |
| 1 cocktail drink in downtown membership | $9 |
| Cappuccino in expat space of town | $3 |
| 1 beer in neighbourhood pub (500ml or 1pt.) | $2 |
| 1 month of fitness center membership | $35 |
| Yoga (per class) | $8 |
| 1 bottle of fine high quality grocery store wine | $16 |
| 12 eggs, giant | $2.65 |
| Twice every week espresso store work | $55 |
| Colombia sim card (month-to-month) | $16 |
🏡 Greatest neighborhoods in Cartagena for digital nomads
Selecting the very best neighborhood in Cartagena, Colombia, as a digital nomad will depend on balancing your work wants, way of life preferences, and finances.
First, think about web connectivity and proximity to coworking areas or cafes conducive to productiveness. Areas like Getsemaní and the Historic Middle are vibrant with cultural experiences and networking alternatives, however may be noisy.
For a quieter, extra residential setting, Manga or San Diego are preferable, providing tranquility whereas nonetheless granting entry to town’s facilities.
Price range is one other essential issue; residing prices can fluctuate considerably between neighborhoods. Getsemaní provides a extra reasonably priced way of life in comparison with the upscale Historic Middle or Bocagrande.
Take into consideration what’s non-negotiable for you: Do you crave the vitality of busy streets and nightlife, or do you like a relaxed retreat? Lastly, immerse your self in the area people to counterpoint your expertise—Cartagena’s attraction lies not simply in its locations, however in its individuals.
Balancing these concerns will information you to the neighborhood that most closely fits your nomadic way of life. Listed here are the highest 5 neighborhoods in Cartagena, Colombia which are protected for digital nomads and foreigners:
1. Getsemani
Getsemaní, as soon as a humble fishermen’s neighborhood, has remodeled right into a vibrant hub of tradition and creativity, making it a key space in any Cartagena digital nomad information.
Recognized for its beautiful road artwork, vigorous plazas, and colonial structure, this neighborhood is a testomony to Cartagena’s wealthy historical past and up to date resurgence.
For Cartagena digital nomads, Getsemaní provides an unparalleled mixture of tradition, historical past, and nightlife. The realm’s colourful streets are lined with cafes and coworking areas, fostering a dynamic setting for creativity and productiveness.
Its reasonably priced residing prices in comparison with different areas make it a sensible selection for nomads seeking to immerse themselves in Cartagena’s native life.
Getsemaní boasts easy accessibility to Cartagena’s historic heart, making it a handy base for exploring town’s landmarks. The neighborhood is inside strolling distance to the long-lasting Clock Tower Gate, Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, and the Caribbean shoreline, mixing city residing with historic exploration.
2. El Centro (Historic Middle)
El Centro, or the Historic Middle of Cartagena, is the guts and soul of town, encapsulating its colonial previous by way of well-preserved structure and cobblestone streets.
This space is central to the Cartagena digital nomad information, providing a glimpse into town’s wealthy historical past and cultural heritage.
The Historic Middle is good for nomads who recognize historical past and tradition as their backdrop. With its myriad of coworking areas nestled amongst historic buildings, digital nomads discover inspiration at each nook. The neighborhood’s security and upscale facilities cater to those that prioritize comfort and high quality of life.
El Centro provides unmatched entry to Cartagena’s most important vacationer points of interest, together with the Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandría, the Palace of the Inquisition, and numerous museums. Its central location means every thing is inside strolling distance, from gourmand eating places to artisan markets.
3. Bocagrande
Bocagrande is Cartagena’s fashionable face, that includes high-rise residences and resorts that line its stunning seashores. This neighborhood is highlighted within the Cartagena digital nomad information for its mix of city residing and beachside leisure, providing a up to date way of life inside the historic metropolis.
Digital nomads drawn to a extra cosmopolitan way of life will discover Bocagrande interesting. The neighborhood gives fashionable facilities, quick web, and luxurious lodging, alongside beachfront cafes and coworking areas that cater to a productive but relaxed working setting.
Located alongside the peninsula, Bocagrande is a brief drive from Cartagena’s historic heart, guaranteeing easy accessibility to town’s cultural websites whereas having fun with the tranquility and views of the Caribbean Sea.
Buying malls, cinemas, and worldwide delicacies are available, providing a cushty expat expertise.
4. San Diego
San Diego is a quieter phase of Cartagena’s Previous Metropolis, identified for its charming colonial homes and tranquil squares. It’s a pivotal space within the Cartagena digital nomad information, providing a serene but culturally wealthy setting, making it a sexy spot for these in search of a mix of productiveness and leisure.
San Diego stands out for nomads in search of a peaceable retreat inside the metropolis’s historic heart. Its relaxed ambiance, mixed with proximity to coworking areas and cafes, provides an ideal stability for individuals who want each focus and inspiration. The neighborhood’s neighborhood vibe additionally facilitates networking and social interactions amongst nomads and locals.
Regardless of its tranquility, San Diego is simply steps away from main historic points of interest, together with the Plaza San Diego and the Santa Clara Lodge, identified for its luxurious structure.
This neighborhood ensures easy accessibility to the remainder of the Historic Middle, with all its museums, galleries, and cultural occasions, providing the very best of each worlds: quiet residential life and proximity to Cartagena’s vibrant coronary heart.
5. Manga
Manga is a residential neighborhood identified for its lush tree-lined streets, grand previous properties, and tranquil marina. It’s an important inclusion within the Cartagena digital nomad information for these in search of a extra laid-back way of life away from the vacationer crowds.
Manga combines the attraction of historic structure with the serenity of suburban life.
Manga is ideal for digital nomads in search of a quiet, genuine residing setting. The realm’s residential nature ensures a peaceable working ambiance, whereas its native cafes and proximity to town heart supply comfort with out the hustle and bustle.
Reasonably priced housing in comparison with Cartagena’s extra tourist-centric neighborhoods makes Manga a sexy choice for longer-term stays.
Whereas Manga is extra faraway from town’s main vacationer points of interest, it stays conveniently linked to the Historic Middle and Getsemaní. A brief drive or bike experience can carry residents into the guts of Cartagena, permitting for straightforward exploration of its cultural landmarks, eating, and leisure choices whereas offering a quiet retreat on the finish of the day.
🤝 Connecting with digital nomads in Cartagena
As somebody who travels solo on a regular basis, the social scene of a sure place I select to base myself in is necessary. And consider me, there are numerous locations on the planet the place you don’t get an opportunity to community!
Fortunately, Cartagena has a really vibrant nightlife though the individuals you at all times come throughout are simply passing by. I, nonetheless, didn’t have a tough time having long-term pals right here due to my language expertise.
Colombians are super-friendly and one can find many people who find themselves additionally into the digital nomad way of life particularly in co-working areas.
There aren’t a variety of digital nomad communities in Cartagena because it’s extra of a trip vacation spot however in the event you reside there, it is vitally straightforward to attach with expats by way of Fb teams.
There are numerous different teams in Cartagena however the majority are in Spanish so I’m solely recommending teams that publish in English and have English-speaking members.
There are literally solely two which show that Cartagena isn’t a well-known vacation spot for digital nomads and expats but. The 2 teams to affix are Expats in Cartagena and Expats in Colombia.
You can too meet individuals by way of Couchsurfing. They used to do meet-ups each week. You’ll be able to obtain Couchsurfing hangouts nevertheless it solely works on cellular.
This app means that you can see which vacationers and digital nomads are in your space. Occasions like working dates or touring collectively are at all times up to date on the app in real-time!
Digital nomad teams in Cartagena, Colombia
📶 Web velocity in Cartagena, Colombia
Web velocity in Cartagena Colombia is tremendous respectable. Do not forget that this isn’t a small city on the coast of Colombia but additionally an enormous metropolis with nice infrastructure.
Cartagena is the gateway of South America from Central America. They’ve a port right here and you’ll truly journey to Cartagena from Panama by sea/boat.
Fiber optic is quite common in Colombia and I used to be actually shocked that it was. 100 MBPS is a good velocity however most landlords of residences particularly on Airbnb don’t actually see the significance of the digital nomad way of life but.
Earlier than reserving your lodging, it is advisable ask the proprietor to ship you a screenshot of the velocity. They will additionally converse English however in the event you need assistance with translations, contact me and I can provide you some suggestions!
You wish to get a Colombian sim card in the event you plan to be a Cartagena digital nomad. I at all times use Claro as a result of all South American nations have them so I’ve tried their providers in many various nations.
Additionally they have reasonably priced Worldwide name packages particularly if it is advisable name the US. Nevertheless, Web-wise, Tigo 4G sim card labored nicely higher for me in Cartagena.
I by no means used this sim card earlier than however after I in contrast it to Claro (hotspot), it labored quicker. Claro has higher protection in the entire nation although. I had each sim playing cards simply in case (other than my transportable wifi machine).
☕ Cartagena cafes with sturdy wifi
Cafes and occasional retailers in Cartagena are identified for his or her attraction and vibrancy, reflecting town’s wealthy tradition and historical past. Many supply a novel mix of native and worldwide flavors, with picturesque settings that vary from quaint colonial buildings to breezy, beachfront spots.
The ambiance in these cafés is usually heat and welcoming, making them good locations to calm down and benefit from the native scene.
The town’s café scene caters nicely to these in search of cozy spots with sturdy Wi-Fi and good espresso. Whereas some cafés are extra conventional, a rising quantity cater particularly to digital nomads, providing comfy seating, energy retailers, and a quiet ambiance for productiveness.
Listed here are the very best espresso retailers in Cartagena with nice meals, energy retailers, and a conducive working setting for distant staff and nomads:
👩💻 Co-working areas in Cartagena
There aren’t many co-working areas in Cartagena, so if you’re a kind of digital nomads who likes to go to co-working areas, this can be a draw back.
I stayed in Selina and availed their each day co-working area which it’s important to pay individually and isn’t included within the nightly keep. This offers you entry to the upper velocity Web of Selina however in the event you’re not paying for the co-working, the Web velocity is fairly gradual.
Selina is at all times crowded by backpackers greater than digital nomads. Listed here are the highest (and doubtless the one) co-working in Cartagena, Colombia:
🤹 Professionals and cons of residing in Cartagena as a digital nomad
Whereas I beloved making Cartagena my digital nomad base, there are additionally some execs and cons of residing in Cartagena which may also help you determine if this can be a good base for you:
Professionals
- Cultural Richness: Cartagena’s vibrant tradition, historic structure, and festivals present an enriching setting. The town’s vigorous music, dance, and artwork scenes supply limitless inspiration and leisure.
- Tropical Local weather: Get pleasure from year-round heat climate, good for individuals who love sunshine and out of doors actions. The seashores and the Caribbean Sea supply a picturesque setting for each work and leisure.
- Reasonably priced Value of Dwelling: In comparison with North American and European cities, Cartagena provides a extra reasonably priced way of life, together with housing, meals, and leisure, making it simpler to keep up lifestyle.
- Pleasant Locals: Colombians are identified for his or her heat and hospitality. The prospect to combine into native communities can improve your expertise and assist with studying Spanish.
- Various Neighborhoods: From the historic attraction of the Previous Metropolis to the trendy facilities of Bocagrande, Cartagena provides a wide range of neighborhoods to swimsuit totally different preferences and desires.
Cons
- Humidity and Warmth: The tropical local weather may have downsides, with excessive humidity and temperatures that some might discover uncomfortable, particularly through the summer time months.
- Language Barrier: Whereas Spanish is important for each day interactions, not understanding the language generally is a important barrier in totally experiencing town and coping with administrative duties.
- Web Reliability: Though bettering, web connectivity may be inconsistent in some areas, posing challenges for digital nomads who rely closely on secure and quick web.
- Security Issues: Whereas Cartagena is mostly protected, particularly in vacationer areas, like all main metropolis, it has neighborhoods with greater crime charges. It’s necessary to remain knowledgeable and cautious.
- Vacationer Crowds: Common vacationer locations inside the metropolis can get crowded, particularly in excessive season, which could detract from the enchantment for these in search of a extra genuine or tranquil expertise.