A Last-Minute Standby Flight
Some of the best journeys begin with no plan at all. That’s the beauty of flying standby.
Our recent trip to Colombia wasn’t on a carefully curated bucket list or mapped out months in advance. It happened almost by accident. We were searching for somewhere — anywhere — to go, refreshing flight options and watching destination after destination fill up. Then suddenly, there it was: two open seats to Colombia.
Without overthinking it, we said, “Yes.”
What followed was one of the most surprising and unforgettable trips we’ve ever taken.
Landing In Barranquilla
First, we landed in Barranquilla, a city that immediately felt real in the most vivid way. This wasn’t a polished tourist postcard destination. It was a working city — busy, alive and wonderfully kinetic. On the drive from the airport, the streets unfolded like a movie: people walking everywhere, taxis weaving through traffic, carts piled high with bananas, donkeys making their way alongside the rush of cars. It was fascinating, chaotic, and, if I’m being honest, a little unnerving at first.
But that first impression quickly gave way to curiosity.
Barranquilla has its own energy, and we enjoyed wonderful food and the pulse of everyday life. Still, we knew before we arrived that our true destination was just a couple of hours away: Cartagena.
One of the things that immediately impressed us about Colombia was how easy and affordable it was to get around. Transportation was incredibly inexpensive. Vans, taxis and buses regularly make the trip from Barranquilla to Cartagena for around $20, and even within the city, rideshares often cost just a few dollars. Traveling between cities felt effortless.
Arriving In Cartagena
The moment Cartagena’s walled city came into view, it felt as though we had stepped into another world.
If New Orleans had a sun-drenched South American cousin, Cartagena would be it.
Cartagena is color and sound and texture. Narrow streets wind through centuries-old buildings draped in balconies and flowers. Music spills from open doorways. Restaurants line nearly every street, each one somehow more inviting than the last. The city feels historic and electric all at once.
And staying inside the heart of it all made the experience even more magical. We checked into Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton, a beautifully restored boutique hotel in the historic center. The location could not have been better — fully walkable to everything we wanted to explore, yet still offering a luxurious retreat from the city’s constant hum. The rooftop pool and terrace were especially memorable, offering views over the old city and providing the perfect place to unwind after a day of wandering.
But as lovely as the hotel was, my favorite part of each day wasn’t down on street level in the city.It was up near the rooftop, sitting on a balcony. Each morning, I would sit outside and simply watch the city wake up.
Early Hours In Cartagena de Indias
There is something almost sacred about Cartagena in the early hours. Before the tourists fill the streets and before the music rises into the evening air, there is this gentle unfolding of life. Women carrying fruit baskets on their heads walk through the narrow streets below. Vendors begin setting up for the day. Voices echo softly between the old stone buildings.
If you gave me the choice between the beach and that balcony, I would choose the balcony every single time. Watching the city come alive was better than any itinerary.
Afternoons In Cartagena
As the day progresses, Cartagena shifts again. By afternoon, the streets are buzzing. The nearby Getsemaní neighborhood quickly became one of our favorite places to wander. Every little street feels like a celebration — umbrellas overhead, colorful flags stretching from building to building and murals, music and people everywhere. It is one of those rare places that feels endlessly alive.
And then comes nighttime.
Nightlife In Cartagena
I’m not exaggerating when I say I have rarely seen a city come alive the way Cartagena does after dark. By evening, the entire city transforms into a celebration. Music spills from rooftops and open-air restaurants. Couples dance in the streets. Friends gather over cocktails as the warm air carries laughter through the historic lanes. Every rooftop seems to glow.
One of our favorite evenings was spent at Mar y Zielo, a rooftop gastrobar with one of the most beautiful views in the city. From the terrace, the cathedral rises dramatically in the distance, creating a scene that feels cinematic scene. The food was outstanding, and I had one of the best desserts I’ve ever tasted.
We also visited Alquímico, one of the world’s most celebrated cocktail bars, and it absolutely lived up to the reputation. The bartenders were among the best we’ve ever encountered — creative, warm and clearly passionate about what they do.
Saying Goodbye To Cartagena
Upon reflecting on our recent trip to Cartagena, what has stayed with me most is the kindness.
Even when language could have been a barrier, everyone we met was gracious and welcoming. Google Translate became our trusted travel companion, making every interaction possible.
Cartagena may not yet be on everyone’s travel radar in the way more established destinations are, but it should be.
It is magical.
Beautiful, vibrant, walkable, and filled with incredible food, unforgettable nightlife, and moments of quiet beauty in the morning light.
What began as a last-minute standby decision became one of our favorite trips we’ve ever taken.
Some places surprise you.
Cartagena astonishes you.
And I already know we’ll be back.
Key Takeaways
The best trips aren’t always planned: This journey started with a last-minute standby seat — and turned into one of our most memorable travel experiences.
Colombia is incredibly accessible: Transportation between cities is easy, affordable and efficient, making it simple to explore beyond one destination.
Cartagena is pure atmosphere: A city where history, color, music and movement all blend together into something that feels both timeless and electric.
Where To Stay: The Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton is a great option for a place to stay in Cartagena, with a central location in the historic center with plenty of attractions, dining, shopping and more within walking distance.
FAQs
Q: What is flying standby like?
A: Flying standby can be unpredictable, but it’s also exciting. If you’re flexible and open to wherever a seat becomes available, it can lead to unexpected and unforgettable experiences — like this one.
Q: What makes Cartagena worth visiting?
A: Cartagena is one of those rare destinations that delivers on every level — history, culture, food, nightlife and atmosphere. It feels vibrant, walkable and endlessly alive.
Q: Is it easy to travel between cities in Colombia?
A: Yes. Transportation is surprisingly simple and affordable. Buses, vans and taxis frequently run between cities, and rides within cities are inexpensive.
Q: Do you need to speak Spanish to visit Cartagena?
A: It helps, but it’s not required. Plenty of waiters and employees speak some level of English and Google Translate is a great resource and tool to use.
