Traveling to Cartagena, Colombia in November

The Colombian Tourism Board's recent marketing campaign has the tag line of "The Only Risk is Wanting to Stay". This is definitely a true statement, but it does bring a bit of negativity to the idea of traveling to Colombia. I have been to Colombia and throughout South America many times and Cartagena, Colombia is one of the safest and most beautiful cities I have ever been to. The city is an Unesco World Heritage Site and named by Frommers in 2009 as one of the top destinations to visit in the world! If you are searching for an incredible event/destination off of the beaten path, Cartagena, Colombia during the National Beauty Pageant in November is the place to be. The city erupts with media coverage, famous people, and the country's jetsetters (from Bogota, Medellin, Cali) as they come to enjoy a week of parties, parades, and nightlife during this week. In 2010, the Colombian National Beauty Pageant is celebrated the week of November 8 - 15. Below are some of the top reasons to check out this event and visit Cartagena during this time. If you are looking for a Cartagena Travel Package, TGW Travel is one of the only companies that offers a package that includes airfare, accommodations, transfers, tours and VIP Service to that week's hottest clubs, events and parties.

1. The Party Atmosphere – Not only does the city celebrate the National Beauty Pageant, but Cartagena also celebrates its independence. The city will be packed with things to do such as the Batalla de Flores (parade on Cartagena’s main avenue where the contestants are on floats), Desfile en Ballaneras in the Bay of Cartagena (this is a parade where the beauty contestants are paraded by marines as their entourage follows them in yachts, sailboats and speedboats),  and the Swimsuit Competition at the Hilton Hotel.
2. The People – The Colombian people are some of the friendliest and most beautiful people in the world. The great thing about these dates is that it’s a national event so people from all over the country travel to Cartagena to party that week. The city erupts with media coverage, famous people, and the country's jetsetters (from Bogota, Medellin, Cali) as they come to enjoy a week of parties, parades, and nightlife.
3. The National Beauty Pageant – The Colombian woman is one of Colombia’s national treasures. How can you not celebrate some of the most beautiful women in the country competing to win the crown. In 2008, Taliana Vargas represented Colombia in Miss Universe and came in second, although many had her winning the crown and becoming the most beautiful woman in the world!
4. Cartagena, The City – Cartagena is one of the most beautiful cities we provide packages to. It was named an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 and has been called the Venice of South America.  
5. Purchasing Power – The Colombian peso has been fluctuating between 2000 & 2500 to the US Dollar in the past couple of years. The dollar, euro & pound will go a long way in Colombia.
6. The Weather – The average temperature in Cartagena is about 80 degrees year round and is about that for the National Beauty Pageant. It’s definitely great beach weather and a great way to get away from the cold in November! 
7. Islas Rosario (Rosario Islands) – This is definitely a place to check out while you are in Cartagena. It’s a small archipelago located south of the Bay of Cartagena, only one hour away by boat. Its crystal clear waters and multi-colors are great for recreational diving. 
8. Safety – Cartagena is a very safe city and a lot safer than a lot of cities in North America. Everyone’s perception of Colombia is that it’s dangerous. Colombia is like any other country where you will be in danger if you are doing something or being somewhere where you’re not supposed to be.

   

   Desfile en Balleneras in Cartagena Bay