Authentic Colombia Travel - Cartagena de Indias

The New York Times Has Named Colombia #2
On Their List Of 52 Places To Go In 2018!

 Join us for an “Outer & Inner Adventure” and experience a captivating combination of exuberant Colombian culture while being nourished with daily meditation, yoga and delicious cuisine in an intimate and safe setting!


CARTAGENA DE INDIAS
FEBRUARY 10th – 16th, 2019

SOLD OUT! Great Success!

Contact us for upcoming travel opportunities

Home of the UNESCO World
Heritage Site and one of the most
charming colonial cities in the Caribbean! 

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias february 2019

Photo Credit: Adolfo Palacio

Location And Overview

Known by many as “The Pearl of the Caribbean,” Cartagena attracts travelers from all over the world who are drawn to this enchanting colonial city for its charm and romantic flair. Cartagena de Indias is a picturesque port city located on the Caribbean coast and has inspired great artists and writers such as Nobel Prize Winner, Gabriel Garcia Marquez. We encourage you to take out your copy of “Love in the Times of Cholera” and bring it along. We’ll walk all those streets together, immersing in the seduction of Magical Realism! In contrast, we’ll also visit spectacular natural settings. Our adventures will be rounded out by dining on delicious local “costeño” cuisine, sharing time with the locals, nourishing body, mind and spirit with daily yoga and meditation and unwinding in our deluxe accommodation - an incredible colonial mansion located in the Old Walled City on one of the most beautiful streets in Cartagena. This prime location is less than two blocks from the 16th century Cathedral Basilica of Saint Catherine of Alexandria and is surrounded by quaint cafés, bookstores and restaurants. 

*This adventure is open to guests age 18+


Highlights

  • Accommodations in a stunning, authentic colonial mansion in the Old Walled City
  • Urban excursions to cultural and historical sites and visits with locals
  • Fun adventures in beautiful natural settings
  • Daily yoga, meditation and breathing exercises 
  • Gourmet dinners at top restaurants in Cartagena
  • Two very special surprise events!
  • A sublime and profoundly healing 90 minute “Ayurvedic Yoga Massage”

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias february 2019 ayurvedic yoga massage therapy

Photo Credit: Juliana Alvarez

About Your Massage

Included in your package is a unique and profoundly healing 90 minute “Ayurvedic Yoga Massage.” This treatment is performed by the beautiful and amazing Yamila Serritella who brings all her many years of experience, professionalism and love into each session. The individual session is given on a futón on the floor. This treatment involves alternation between deep tissue massage and a series of healing stretches covering all regions of the body. Progressively, a sense of wellness, openness and presence is brought to the receiver. More than a massage, it’s a connection with your being through relaxation, stretching and breathing.

Passport & Travel Requirements

Jetblue flies directly to Cartagena’s “Rafael Núñez” airport (CTG), from JFK and Fort Lauderdale. American Airlines flies directly to Cartagena from Miami and Spirit Airlines flies directly to Cartagena from Dallas and Ft Lauderdale. Many other airlines in the U.S. have direct flights to Bogotá, Colombia’s capital city, El Dorado International Airport (BOG). From there, you can catch a quick, one hour flight to Cartagena. We recommend Avianca Airlines for travel within Colombia. Europeans and U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Colombia. If you are from another country, please contact the closest Colombian consulate in your country of origin for information on visa requirements. For more information, visit www.colombia.travel/en/practical-information/visa  or check out our FAQ.

What To Expect

Upon arrival, you’ll be picked up at the Cartagena airport (CTG) by our Event Coordinator and taken to the mansion. Here, we’ll welcome you with a delicious, refreshing local drink (non-alcoholic) and the opportunity to explore the mansion and relax a bit before our first gentle yoga class. That evening, we’ll enjoy a group dinner together at home, followed by an orientation and review of our program for the week. Each day will begin with yoga and meditation, followed by a delicious and nourishing breakfast, fun and varied activities and plenty of time to relax and rejuvenate. 

Sample Schedule

  • 7:30 – 9:00 Yoga, breathing exercises and meditation
  • 9:00 – 10:30 Delicious homemade breakfast
  • 10:30 – 2:00 Free time or group excursion (bird sanctuary, beach, etc)
  • 2:00 – 3:00 Nutritious homemade lunch
  • 4:00 – 6:00 Free time or afternoon activity
  • 6:30 – 7:00 Group meditation
  • 7:30  – 8:30 Dinner at home, at a restaurant, or on your own
  • 8:30 Free evening or surprise event

Included In Your Package

  • 7 days, 6 nights deluxe accommodation in a beautiful colonial mansion
  • Fresh fruit and natural juices served daily
  • Daily breakfast prepared each morning in-house, featuring continental style offerings and Colombian specialties
  • 4 delicious lunches + 2 dinners, all homemade with fresh, seasonal ingredients
  • 2 Lavish gourmet dinners at top restaurants in Cartagena
  • Unique and rejuvenating 90-minute “Ayurvedic Yoga Massage”
  • Urban excursions that include guided walking tour, street art, cultural and historical sites and time with locals*
  • Fun adventures in beautiful natural settings* 
  • Daily yoga, breathing exercises & meditation for all levels
  • 2 very special surprise activities to be revealed during our adventure!
  • Local airport transfers

*Activities are subject to change without notice


authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias february 2019 tropical fruit guava

Photo Credit: Adolfo Palacio

Cuisine

During our adventure, you’ll experience Colombia’s flavorful cuisine with a combination of nourishing, high vibe, homemade meals and lavish culinary delights at top restaurants in the city. You’ll also have the opportunity to try a diverse offering of local dishes as well as exotic Colombian specialties. Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request and most dietary restrictions can be accommodated.


Yoga, Meditation & Breathing Exercises

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias colonial mansion swimming pool meditation outdoors yoga retreat

Our program is designed for all levels, helping those who are new to yoga lay a foundation that can be easily integrated into daily life upon returning home. For those who have an established yoga and meditation practice, you’ll have the opportunity to deepen and drop into a space of greater stillness and connection. All guests will receive compassionate and personalized instruction that will leave you feeling absolutely nurtured. Mónica will lead most of the sessions with a couple of exceptions in which DP will guide you through active meditation exercises. Our yoga classes will combine traditional Hatha, Yin, Restorative and Bikram styles.

*All classes and activities are optional and all levels are welcome, including those with no prior experience.

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias february 2019 founders monica bitar dp waldman

Your Guides

Combining our backgrounds and life experiences with decades of professional and spiritual development, we are thrilled to offer you this once-in-a-lifetime, authentic adventure in spectacular Cartagena! As your trusted guides and companions (Mónica is a native Colombiana!), we are devoted to providing an exceptional and unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the trip has ended. We are inspired and committed to share with you, the best of Colombia - the Authentic Colombia!

 

Mónica, originally from Bogota, Colombia, worked as a diplomat for the Colombian Foreign Service for many years and after a series of life changing events, entered the world of holistic living. Mónica is a certified Yoga, Meditation, Ayurveda and Reiki teacher. She has conducted classes around the world and has never stopped passionately promoting the best of Colombia. For more about Monica, click here.

DP has been a professional Life and Spiritual Coach for over 20 years, a lifelong musician, yogi, meditator, and lover of Colombia! For more about DP, click here.

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias 16th century colonial mansion february 2019

Photo Credit For Mansion And Guest Rooms Courtesy of Camila Mejia

Accommodation

During our Cartagena adventure, we’ll stay in an elegant eight room, four story mansion which was built in the 16th century and is located in the heart of the Old Walled City. Take a dip in the sparkling swimming pool or relax in one of the many light filled, comfy common areas. From the rooftop terrace, you can sunbathe, lounge or savor the view of the sun setting over the Caribbean Sea. Retire to your well appointed guest room that comes fully equipped with a T.V., air conditioning, safe/security box and en-suite bathroom. All rooms have been updated with modern amenities, but retain an authentic Colonial look and feel.

Room Options, Package Pricing & Registration

*By paying the deposit and/or buying your room in full, you confirm that you have read and accepted our terms and conditions.

The names of each room are inspired by the names of Colombian birds. Did you know that Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world, ranking first in bird species? (more than 1,845!)


authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias guestroom february 2019

 Room #1: “Garza” (Heron)

Located on the mezzanine between floors 1 and 2, this charming, intimate and cozy suite is ideal for a solo adventurer. Garza’s beautiful, antique furniture gives a sense of historic colonial space. The picture window overlooks the pool. An en-suite bathroom is shared with room #2. 

1 Queen bed, sleeps 1. Single occupancy rate: $2,070 USD.

This room has been reserved and is no longer available. 


authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias guestroom february 2019 founders

Room #2: “Águila” (Eagle)

Located on the mezzanine between floors one and two, this spacious and charming suite is ideal for a couple or two good friends willing to share a bed. Two small balconies overlook an interior hallway, bringing lots of natural light into the room. Its beautiful antique furniture and wood vigas (open beams) give a deep sense of historic colonial space. En-suite bathroom is shared with room #1.

1 King bed, sleeps 2. Double occupancy rate: $1,998 USD per person.

*For single occupancy, please contact us for details and pricing.

This room has been reserved and is no longer available. 

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias guestroom  february 2019

Room #4: "Maria Mulata" (Cartagena Blackbird)

This spectacular master suite is ideal for a couple that wants to celebrate life and love in total luxury (remember it will be Valentines’ Day during our trip!). It’s also perfect for a solo traveler wishing to gift him/herself with a much deserved sumptuous treat!

Maria Mulata is located on the second floor of the mansion and is exquisitely adorned with a crystal chandelier, antique furniture and carved wood windows. The charming sitting area is situated between doorways that lead to two balconies overlooking one of the most beautiful streets in Cartagena. The private en-suite bathroom is the largest in the mansion and features a soaking tub, shower, walk-in closet and original colonial walls. There’s also a mini-fridge for added convenience.

1 King bed, sleeps 2. Double occupancy rate: $2,648 USD per person - NOW DISCOUNTED 10% ~ New rate: $2,383 USD per person!!!

This room has been reserved and is no longer available.


authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias guestroom  february 2019

Room #5:  “Pico Azul” (Blue Beak)

Located on the second floor, Pico Azul is the largest and most spacious room of all and is filled with natural light. Ideal for two or three adventurers traveling together or wishing to share a room with fellow travelers. Its beautiful high ceilings, carved wood windows and antique furniture give a special sense of historic colonial space. This room has a balcony overlooking one of the most beautiful streets in Cartagena. Private, en-suite bathroom.

2 queen beds and 1 twin bed. Sleeps up to 3.

Double occupancy rate: $2,153 USD per person * 

This room has been reserved and is no longer available. 

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias guestroom  february 2019

Room #6: "Cardenal" (Cardinal)

Located on the second floor of the mansion, this intimate suite is perfect for a couple or two friends wishing to share a bed. It features a sofa that sits under a pretty window and the inviting decor gives this room a very special flair. Its private, en-suite bathroom is one of the most charming in the mansion.

1 King bed. Sleeps 2 guests. Double occupancy rate: $2,287 USD per person.

This room has been reserved and is no longer available. 


authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias guestroom  february 2019

Room #7: “Tucán” (Toucan)

Located on the second floor of the mansion, this cozy suite is perfect for a couple or two friends wishing to share a bed. Its three windows and bright decor give Tucan plenty of natural light and an airy atmosphere. Its private en-suite bathroom features a double sink.

1 King bed. Sleeps 2 guests. Double occupancy rate: $2,287 USD per person.

*For single occupancy, please contact us for details and pricing.

This room has been reserved and is no longer available.

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias guestroom  february 2019

Room #8: "Lechuza" (Owl)

After ascending a staircase in a tower-like structure, you arrive to Lechuza - the only room on the third floor. Ideal for two friends traveling together or solo adventurers wishing to be placed with a roommate. The secluded location and proximity to the mansion’s terrace make this room very special. Private en-suite bathroom.

2 double beds. Sleeps 2. Double occupancy rate: $1,965 USD per person * 

This room has been reserved and is no longer available.

authentic colombia travel cartagena de indias guestroom  february 2019

Room #9: "Guacamaya" (Macaw)

The most secluded room in the mansion, Guacamaya is closest to the “overlook” from which the rooftops, cathedral and sea can be viewed. It is accessed by ascending a spiral staircase and is ideal for two friends traveling together or a solo adventurer wishing to be placed with a roommate. Must be happy to climb the stairs to get to this unique space! Private en-suite bathroom.

2 double beds. Sleeps 2. Double occupancy rate: $1,965 USD per person * 

This room has been reserved and is no longer available.

*By paying the deposit and/or buying your room in full, you confirm that you have read and accepted our terms and conditions.

We are opening this retreat to 16 guests only. All prices are in USD and are subject to change.

Due to the accessibility by stairs of guest rooms on upper levels, if you have mobility concerns please contact us before registering, to determine if this location will meet your needs.

A non-refundable deposit of $675 will secure your spot. Final balance is due 90 days prior to the start of our adventure (By Saturday, November 10th, 2018).

Space is limited, sign up early to secure your spot! Registration will be taken on a first come, first served basis.

If you have any questions check out our FAQ  or we’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to contact us anytime!

Please Join us! We look forward to sharing the beauty and richness of Authentic Colombia with you! Gracias! 

ENJOY receiving – REJOICE in giving