SimplyAbuDhabi XXXIII

1 9 1 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I EXPLorE A step through time rich in history, days are spent pootling around the colonial streets of Cartagena, retracing the paths of Spanish conquistadors, pirates, witches and slaves. The top places to visit include: Las bovedas (“The Vaults”)—once the watery cells of civil war prisoners; Calle de Las damas—the avenue home to noble ladies taking their evening strolls, but also where the King of Spain, Charles Vi walked the walls dressed in disguise as a dame—apparently to investigate the large costs incurred for construction of the walls; El Portal de Los dulces—where vendors have sold all flavours of local sweets, caramels and other delectable delights; Plaza de los Coches—the market square where slaves were bought and sold; lastly, The Palace of inquisition—an elegant fortress dedicated to punishing victims to rid them of the evils of the devil and their ‘witchly’ ways. Creative Cartagena if a walk through history is all too gruesome and depressing then Cartagena’s creative side is one to discover. A city of arts, Cartagena continuously celebrates its writers, artists and musicians alike. one of these artists is the famed Fernando botero, a Colombian sculptor and painter whose style is the epitome of ‘round’. A creator of rubenesque women in various scenes, many renditions of his work are displayed by local artisans dotted along the streets. To see one of his very ‘own’ larger-than-life bronze masterpieces head to La Plaza Santo domingo, home to the infamous La Gorda. Green with envy renowned as the world’s largest producer of emeralds, Colombian emeralds are known for their deep green hues. Jeweller Lucy Sanchez has been in business for more than three decades and has built a notable reputation in delivering high quality stones set in sleek designs. A perfect keepsake for time spent in the jewel of the Caribbean. Getsemani grit A barrio of Cartagena that lies just outside the walls of the historic city, Getsemani was once the slave district. Previously a complicated and seedy neighbourhood, it is now the coolest and most authentic place to get lost amid Spanish colonial architecture, dance halls, street art, boutique hotels and locals salsa dancing in the streets. Sail the seas For the full Caribbean experience, spend a day exploring the nearby rosario islands national Park, an idyllic archipelago of 30 islands. Crystal-clear waters, swaying palm trees and icing-sugar sands provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of colonial town. romance the night renowned as a city of romance, watching the sunset in Cartagena is as sweet as the smell of jasmine on a warm, humid breeze. The enviable position is along the old wall, originally constructed to protect against pirates. Sitting atop, or tucked into one of the original vantage points, lovers or all ages immerse themselves in the romance of the night. dance the night away Upon seeing the last of Cartagena’s blushed crimson flame fall into her inky black sea, clip clop by horse drawn carriage along the streets of old town. if it is Saturday, the sounds of fireworks will ricochet against the colonial walls, with splashes of fluorescent paint lighting the sky. Spirits high, frivolities as well, head with your posse to La Movida, a centuries-old mansion, turned high society club offering an entrée into the world of Cartagena’s bold and beautiful. Sip, dance and be merry…after all you’re in the Caribbean! -