Cartagena, Colombia

Capital City

Living in Cartagena is not the tropical paradise it may seem. With a population of just under 30,000, the city faces substantial challenges - a heavy tax burden, rampant bureaucracy, and persistent concerns over safety. The colonial-era walls may be picturesque, but they do little to shield residents from the Caribbean heat and humidity, which averages 80% year-round. And while the port drives economic activity, it has also made Cartagena a prime target for pirates and corsairs over the centuries. Those drawn to Cartagena's historic charm and vibrant culture should prepare for the realities of life in this "heroic city."