Cartagena

Getting around: The walled old town and Getsemaní district walk entirely on foot. Uber or taxi to reach Bocagrande or the Rosario Islands (by boat). Avoid unofficial guides who approach you on the street.

Halal & prayer places: Very rare — no notable declared halal options; rely on fresh seafood and arepas.

Local safety: The old town, Getsemaní and Bocagrande are relatively safe by day with heavy tourist policing, but inflated-price scams and unofficial guides are common, and isolated beaches or walking far from lit areas at night should be avoided.

Cost figures: 2026 prices: a boat tour to the Rosario Islands ~$30-50, an official walled-city guided tour ~$15, a seafood meal $10-20, old-town hotels $60-200/night.