A Visit to Columbia's Famous Walled City 
Photos/Video: North Palm Beach Life

By GERRY and PAMELA BARKER
North Palm Beach Life

CARTAGENA, Columbia_ After several days at sea, Carnival Miracle has docked here, a fortress city on the Caribbean Sea that played a key role in the expansion of the Spanish Empire since the early 1500s. Today, it's a thriving metropolis with towering skyscrapers that ring the harbor. We are here for a day and a night, giving us a great opportunity to experience the romance and history this city is famous for. Let's go!

Cartagena By Day...

After a short boat ride, we depart for a visit to the famous Walled City, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the most extensive fortifications in South America.

We are greeted by beautiful churches and museums. Vendors  sell their wares in the narrow streets.

STREET SCENES

Aboard the Party Boat...

​On the way back from the Walled City, it's PARTY-TIME! Pam joins the fun on "YMCA" (above) and shows her dance moves in the video (left).


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Another rum punch, please!

A panoramic view of Cartagena harbor from the party boat

Cartagena by Night...

Pam and I booked a night tour of the Walled City,
​which started with a downpour. No problem --
they handed out rain panchos!

The city takes on a whole new vibe after dark, as lights add drama to buildings and streets.

Horse-drawn carriage rides are popular with tourists and locals alike.

We made a stop at an ice cream shop and took a picture with the attendants.

Our double-decker sightseeing bus.

All too soon, it was time to get back on board Miracle and say goodbye to Cartagena

Hasta la proxima vez!