I have mixed feelings about Cartagena, Colombia.  

On one hand it is a vibrant coastal city with an historic walled area, lots of things to see and to do, gorgeous beaches and an abundance of South American charm.

The historic old city, where I stayed on a Photography Tour last March, is overrun with tourists. Why? 200 cruise ships a year stop there to discharge  up to 10,000 passengers a day into a space forever changed by the onslaught. 

It is a lovely colorful city filled with many artists, public art and opportunities for interesting photography.  

I really enjoyed the creative decor on the buildings of many narrow and winding streets within the walls of the city.

It’s fun to peek into open doorways  while enjoying the creativity expressed on the street.  Color  is abundant.

We were encouraged to try our hands with abstract photography. Richard Martin, the professional photographer on the trip, is known for his colorful and minimalist work. What fun to stroll the streets with him seeing what drew his eye and camera.

Apparently it is quite the party city, with celebratory buses staged in the main tourist areas.  I also saw old cars waiting for tourists to ride and plenty of souvenir opportunities. 

I enjoyed seeing a bull fighting ring repurposed into a posh shopping center. I didn’t buy anything but had fun looking about at the trendy, and yes, colorful stuff.

The following are a few more scenes to enjoy hopefully capturing a bit more of  the spirit of Cartagena.  If you’d like to see scenes from the local market, do take a look at Feb. 2’s blog post about Colombian markets. 

DesignDestinations is published every other Monday by Susan J. Smith and her blogging friends.