CARTAGENA DE INDIAS TRAVEL GUIDE
In 1959, the city of Cartagena de Indias was declared a national heritage site of Colombia, while in 1984, the UNESCO Committee of World Heritage included it in the World Heritage List as “The port, the fortresses and the group of monuments of Cartagena de Indias”
Tourism became a potential factor for this city because of its nature and history, both captured in a series of architectural styles and natural sights such as La Boquilla, Bocagrande, Castillo Grande, El Laguito beaches and the Rosario and Baru islands.
We are all committed to preserve these natural attractions by following all the recommendations listed below:
- Before visiting the Rosario islands (coral reef archipelago), learn how to cause as little impact as possible by avoiding degrading the environment.
- Avoid touching or taking corals, plants and animals out of their habitat.
- Refrain from collecting, extracting or buying handicrafts that contain animal parts.
- Do not throw cigarette butts or garbage into the sea.
- Do not fish in the area.
- Make sure you discard items and waste into the corresponding bins according to their classification.
When visiting the walled city and the monuments:
- Do not litter.
- Show respect for the local culture and learn about its traditions.
- Get handicrafts and traditional products manufactured by the local industry/ people.
- Consult with your tour guide before taking pictures within monuments.
Do not contribute to the commercial sexual exploitation of children; In our country it is considered a crime.
We all have a role to play within the general context of travelling and responsible tourism. Governmental institutions, businesses and communities must take action by all means. But especially visitors can significantly support this cause in many ways:
- Be open to cultural traditions that differ from yours; your experience will be renovated. Win local people’s respect and they will embrace you more easily. Be tolerant and respect diversity; observe the traditions and social and cultural practices of the region.
- Respect human rights. Any kind of human exploitation violates the fundamental purposes of tourism. Sexual exploitation of children is a punishable crime, both in the country where it is committed as well as in the country of residence of the person that committed it.
- Help preserve the environment. Protect the flora and wildlife and their habitat. Do not buy items or products that are made out of animals or plants.
- Respect cultural resources. Tourist activities should be respect for the artistic, archaeological and cultural heritage.
- Your visit may contribute to the socioeconomic progress. Buy only local handicrafts and products to support the local economy, and be aware of the principles of a fair trade. When bargaining, keep in mind the concept of a fair remuneration.
- Before heading off, learn about the sanitary situation of your destination and also about access to consular and emergency services. Assure yourself that your health won’t be in risk. Make sure all your needs will be covered (feeding, health and medical care) before heading to your destination.
- Gather as much information as possible about your destination, and spend time learning about local habits, rules and traditions. Avoid all kind of behaviors that may offend the local people.
- Learn about the current law in order not to commit any acts that can be considered illegal within the country that you are visiting. Do not smuggle drugs, weapons, antiques, endangered species, nor any kind of dangerous or forbidden products or substances by the national regulations.
