Cartagena, nestled on the northern coast of Colombia, exudes old-world charm blended with vibrant modernity, making it a fascinating destination for expats. With breathtaking beaches, captivating architecture, and a bustling economy, Cartagena is an inviting city for foreigners seeking a unique lifestyle. Known as the 'City of Heroes', Cartagena is home to a delightful fusion of Afro-Caribbean and European influences, offering newcomers a plethora of sights, sounds, and flavors to explore.
Tips for expats in Cartagena
Visa requirements
Most foreign nationals require a visa to live in Cartagena for more than 90 days. The most common visas for foreigners in Cartagena are the Retirement Visa, the Student Visa, and the Profesional Visa, which requires a job offer from a legitimate Colombian company. Although obtaining a visa can be a lengthy process, the Colombian embassy in the applicant's home country can provide information regarding the necessary steps.
Language resources
Learning some Spanish before embarking on expat life in Cartagena is recommended since English is not widely spoken in the city. Language schools like Cristosal Institute and Andres Bello Language School offer Spanish courses for both beginners and advanced levels, with prices starting from $150 per week. The Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar provides classes for non-Spanish-speaking parents seeking to communicate with their children's schools effectively.
Cost of living for expats in Cartagena
Housing
The cost of accommodation in Cartagena is relatively affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment ranging from $200 to $400 per month, a two-bedroom apartment averaging $400 to $600 per month, and a three-bedroom house ranging anywhere from $600 to $1,500 per month. Shared accommodation is widely available, with prices ranging around $100 to $150 per month for a room in a shared house.
Groceries
Cartagena's local grocery stores, such as Carulla and Éxito, offer low-price items essential for everyday life. A basic grocery basket costs around $50 to $70 per week; however, expats should expect to pay substantially higher prices for imported food products.
Transportation
Taxis are notoriously cheap in Cartagena, with prices averaging $1 to $3 per mile, and the buses come at a reasonable cost as well. An urban taxi costs $3 for the first kilometer and $1.50 for each additional kilometer. International schools: Caribean Spanish Academy provides boarding for $3,660 per year for Koreans, while Colegio Nueva Granada, a private international school, costs around $5,070 per year.
Climate in Cartagena
Cartagena has a tropical wet and dry climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year, with a short dry season from December to March. The average yearly temperature is 27°C, with the hottest months being March to May and September to November. The city experiences frequent rain showers in April, May, October, and November, while the rainy season generally peaks from May to November.
Job market in Cartagena
Cartagena's economy is predominantly service-oriented, and the job market is quite dynamic, with a significant number of foreign companies and expat professionals. Roles in healthcare and finance, such as doctors, accountants, and bankers, are in high demand, as are positions in international businesses, such as marketing and sales positions. Cartagena's economy is also rapidly expanding, leading to an increase in job opportunities in sectors such as hospitality and construction.
Healthcare in Cartagena
Cartagena provides quality healthcare services through both public and private healthcare systems. Public healthcare facilities, such as the Hospital San José and the Clinica Marbella, provide relatively affordable healthcare to expats with government-issued healthcare cards. Private healthcare systems like the Hospital Psiquiatrico Lisandro Parra and the Clínica Resurrección provide higher-quality care but at higher prices. Wellness services like yoga and acupuncture are also popular in Cartagena.
Transport in Cartagena
Cartagena's public transportation system is efficient and affordable, with a blend of buses and taxis. The city's modern metro buses provide an affordable way to travel around the city, while taxis are prevalent and affordable. Uber is also widely available in the city. Cartagena's central neighborhoods, such as El Centro and Getsemani, are walkable, making it convenient for pedestrians. Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in the city due to the growing number of convenient bike-sharing services.
Safety in Cartagena
Although Cartagena is relatively safe, areas like Villa Lara and Bocagrande have a higher crime rate than other parts of the city. Expats are advised to remain vigilant and minimize valuables in public areas. It's recommended to avoid carrying large sums of money and to keep an eye on belongings when traveling via public transportation or walking in crowded areas.
Neighborhoods in Cartagena
El Centro
El Centro, also known as the walled city, is the oldest neighborhood of Cartagena and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is rich in history, culture, and heritage, showcasing Baroque architecture and monumental landmarks such as the Palace of the Inquisition and the Cathedral of Saint Peter Claver.
Getsemani
Getsemani, adjacent to El Centro, is known for its bohemian vibe and artistic community. The area is home to colorful walls with inspiring murals, small cafés, and street festivals regularly held in the square.
Attractions in Cartagena
Wall of Cartagena
The Walls of Cartagena are a series of fortified walls that encircle the old city and the bay. The walls date back to the 17th century and boast stunning architecture and a rich history.
Palace of the Inquisition
The Palace of the Inquisition is a magnificent neo-classical colonial building that belongs to an era when the Spanish Inquisition was active in Colombia. The building is an exquisite example of Spanish neoclassical architecture and now serves as a cultural center showcasing art exhibitions and cultural festivals.
Museo del Oro
The Museum of Gold is Cartagena's most popular historical monument, exhibiting over 55,000 gold artifacts from the Pre-Columbian era. The museum is an ideal destination for history buffs who wish to explore Colombia's rich heritage.
International Schools in Cartagena
Caribean Spanish Academy
Centro Histórico, Cartagena
Caribean Spanish Academy provides educational programs to non-Spanish-speaking students, offering Spanish courses for various age groups, from kindergarten through high school. The academy provides boarding accommodation options for students living outside of the city as well.
Colegio Nueva Granada
Bocagrande, Cartagena
Colegio Nueva Granada is a private international school that delivers an excellent quality education to students in elementary, middle, and high school. The school is recognized for its outstanding curriculums, which are based on the Cambridge International Curriculum.
