Flying to Cartagena

It was time to leave Medellín, but with a lunchtime flight there was no need to rush, so we had a leisurely breakfast and finished packing before checking out. Jean was there to escort us to the airport, where he was due to pick up some arriving guests later this morning.

The airport was fairly quiet. We'd already checked in online so after saying thank you and goodbye to Jean we dropped off our bags. We cleared security quickly and once through headed to a coffee shop where we got much better (read ‘stronger') coffees than at the hotel breakfast. The airport wifi was good so we were able to catch up on messages to pass the time while we waited to board.

The plane proved not to be full so we had a row of three to ourselves. We took off a few minutes early, another bonus. I'd hoped to be able to photograph Medellín from the air but we took off in the wrong direction so the best I could manage was the surrounding countryside with its plastic-covered fields of tomatoes.

Take-off from Medellín

Coming into land in Cartagena, ten minutes early, we saw the coastline and tall blocks in the modern town. But having arrived so early, we waited quite a while for the baggage, with my case eventually appearing, along with a few others, on the wrong belt!

We were met outside by Hilary and driven to our hotel in the old town, the Ananda Boutique, a beautifully restored colonial house. We had to wait ages to check in as one poor guy on his own at reception was dealing with a group of women checking out as well as four arrivals just ahead of ourselves. But we passed the time comparing notes with the other arrivers and getting restaurant recommendations from one of those leaving.

Once we got to our room we were impressed with the size and style. But we didn’t hang around long, instead heading out for a walk around the immediate area. We had a great ice cream at a gelateria just down the road, Gelateria Paradiso, resolving to visit again.

Then we walked around a few streets, taking photos and checking restaurants, spotting at least one that looked a good option for the evening.

Back at the hotel I contemplated a swim but decided to wait until the following day when I would have more time. In the evening we went to the restaurant we had spotted earlier, Origenes. It was a fairly simple place and quieter than I’d have liked but the service was friendly and the food good, if served in too large portions – my salmon was huge!

After the meal we had a drink in a nearby small square which was full of life and activity, then strolled around the block to take a longer route back to the hotel.