re: Finally settled on Cartagena for a thanksgiving trip

I spent a week down in Cartagena last year and had a hell of a time, as part of my month long stay in Colombia to visit my girlfriends family. Colombia is much nicer than its reputation ... but I don't suggest staying off the beaten path anywhere in the country. I would definitely try and stay at a hotel on the beach in Bocagrande.

The wall / old city are awesome and you should definitely take a horse carriage ride through it all and take in the architecture. Try and do this about an hour before the sun sets.

Hopefully your ride ends as the sun is about to set, at that point hop up on the wall and take in the beauty.

After that, it should be dark and I suggest you walk through the center of the old city as there are some very interesting shops and restruants strewn about the the narrow streets.

Somewhere in the old city center you'll find a big plaza with tons of wooden chairs and tables for you to sit and enjoy a beer and the various performers passing by. Much more enjoyable at night time, and the place is usually packed. It's like one big relaxed party with strangers.

You should also go visit the old military fort (the name escapes me) which is a short drive from the wall / old city. It's actually very impressive and you can get on top and see a great view of the city.

There's also this really famous Golden Shoe thing that people get inside of and take pictures with the fortress in the background.

I suggest you try and find yourself one of those open air tourist busses that drive you through the city. My girl and I had a blast, were able to buy beers from vendors while still in traffic, had a lively tour guide who played music, etc.

The buses will take you by all the main attractions in the city, but the best part was the end when it takes you just outside downtown to a church on top of a mountain that gives you an INCREDIBLE view of the Cartagena skyline and the ocean.

I don't remember a lot of specifics and names etc, and I'm also posting on my mobile, but if you need anymore help or information just let me know and I'll do my best to assist you when I can.