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Cartagena, Colombia:
Cartagena is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast—a frum-friendly paradise with kosher food, affordable adventures, and a warm Chabad presence. It’s a nearby alternative to Cancun, offering beaches, history, and Jewish comfort. Here’s everything you need to know, based on my recent trip (full TR).
Chabad
Kosher
Activities
Hotels
Shabbos Tips
Transportation
Other Tips
Location of Chabad
Mikvah
https://chabadcartagena.com/en/
Cartagena is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast—a frum-friendly paradise with kosher food, affordable adventures, and a warm Chabad presence. It’s a nearby alternative to Cancun, offering beaches, history, and Jewish comfort. Here’s everything you need to know, based on my recent trip (full TR).
Chabad
- Run by an incredible shliach Rabbi Saadia Globerman—super friendly and responsive. I called him before booking and chatted for an hour like old friends. Reach out via WhatsApp for kosher food orders or questions (number not public—DM me or check Chabad’s site for contact).
- Located in the high end area, next door to skyscraper Luxury Airbnbs—perfect for meals and davening. They host Shabbos meals (reservation needed) and minyanim as available.
- Offers fresh, affordable kosher takeout—breakfast (omelets, shakshuka, sandwiches), lunch, and dinner. Freshly baked bread, Malawach, Bourekas and pastries are a highlight. WhatsApp your order, and it’s ready fast!
- Community events like Tu B’Shvat gatherings with exotic fruits—great for connecting with other Jews, including Israelis and people from all walks of life.
Kosher
- Chabad is your lifeline—flexible menu, cheap prices (thank the peso exchange rate), and takeout for day trips. Sandwiches to-go were a hit.
- You can grab a pot, spatula, and eggs from a local store, but you won’t need them—Chabad covers everything.
- No specific kosher app noted, but Chabad’s setup makes it unnecessary.
Activities
- National Aviary of Colombia (45-min drive)—80+ bird species, kid-friendly, $5-12/adult, free under 3. Bring sandwiches for lunch.
- Playa Blanca—beautiful beach, quick dip option (45 min), or take a 5-min boat to a luxe beach club.
- Private boat day ($400/day with captain, skipper, guide)—aquarium island, dolphin swims ($40/person), snorkeling, and private beach clubs. Book via Chabad’s recommended contacts for deals and reputable people.
- City tour—1500s fortresses (e.g., Castillo San Felipe, minimal fee), pirate history, and old city walls walking.
- Tierra Bomba (15-min boat, $110 round-trip)—Blue Apple beach club, pools, family-friendly.
- Coffee lovers: San Alberto (best espresso) and Epoca (best pour-over)—$10-12/bag, fresh-roasted souvenirs.
Hotels
- Morros City building has numerous Airbnbs next to Chabad (sebastion on airbnb was great and manages around 20)— pool included, steps from meals.
- High-end options exist in the historic district—research proximity to Chabad for Shabbos walking.
- Look for places with pools and family-friendly vibes—do due diligence on Airbnb locations.
Shabbos Tips
- My trip didn’t include Shabbat, but Chabad is Shabbos-ready—reserve meals in advance. Proximity to Chabad is key for walking (my Airbnb was next door).
- Boat trips: Leave the Rosario islands by 3:00 pm latest—waves get choppy after 3:30 pm.
Transportation
- Flights: 35K Alaskan miles RT (LAX-CTG via MIA), free stopover included - operated by American Airlines.
- In-city: Uber is reliable and cheap—airport to Chabad (~10 min). If you have cash - feel free to stop a taxi and have them price match uber - of course they will do so very happily. Customs with family fast lanes is a breeze.
- Day trips: Chabad hooked us up with Juan Carlos. Easy to negotiate with and very resourceful guide. Got us whatever we needed confirmed FAST. A 16-seat van ($108 total) or private boats ($400/day). 20-30% cheaper than online rates.
- Airport layovers: MIA Centurion Lounge access with Platinum cards (juice, fruit, kid-friendly).
Other Tips
- Cartagena’s safe and tourist-friendly—stick with Chabad’s guidance for peace of mind.
- Bring snorkel gear if you own it—boats provide life jackets, but gear elevates the experience.
- Coffee shops and malls (AC!) are great for breaks—souvenir street feels like a mini shuk - yet literally a 1/10 of the intensity of the average souvenir district.
Location of Chabad
- In the historic district— but it’s central and walkable from many spots. Contact the shliach for specifics.
Mikvah
- No mikvah noted during my trip—check with Chabad for updates or sea options with the shlucha.
https://chabadcartagena.com/en/
« Last edited by rcarentals on March 03, 2025, 02:11:57 AM »
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