Cartagena, Colombia (also Cartagena de Indias)

A city of vibrance, beauty, history, and perfect tropical weather

Cartagena, Colombia is possibly the most attractive city in the western hemisphere, located on the northern coast of Colombia. Recently named the #2 ‘Destination on the Rise‘ in the world by Tripadvisor, you will find more than the typical coastal resort town in this historic city, whose fortress and walled city have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The preservation of its historical colonial heritage, the vibrant old town, with its cobblestone streets and bright colonial mansions, combined with the tropical climate, beaches, numerous islands, and friendly atmosphere create a charming paradise retreat.

Where to stay in Cartagena –

Old Town. Cartagena’s principal attraction is the walled city, an enclosed walking city filled with colorful colonial mansions with flourishing hanging flowers, old cathedrals, monasteries, plazas – a wonderful maze of beautiful sights and vibrant energy. There are many historic sights to see, and so much to discover by just wandering through the streets. Wandering is how the owners of Commendable Rentals found the stunning Cacrtagena Palace, a Palace-turned-Apartments with a rich history, a charming owner, and equally charming accommodations. Restaurants and shopping are plenty in Old Town. Catch the right view, and you can enjoy the blended view of the old and new, historic rooftops in the old city, a shimmering Cartagena Bay, and a skyline of newer developments.

NEW TO OUR COLLECTION – VILLA ALEXANDRA

Great for families, reunions, retreats – a 5 Bedroom, 5 Bath Villa in the heart of Cartagena, its Historic Old Town. This is the perfect Cartagena accommodation for those looking for the elegance and service of the best hotels, as well as the privacy of a private residence in a spacious home. With a courtyard pool, rooftop Jacuzzi, and hanging hammocks – fall into blissful relaxation. There’s even an option to add on a 36-foot boat for a trip to nearby islands.

Here are a few photos of Villa Celedon and the rejuvenating properties of this relaxing home. See more on the property page.

Upcoming events in Cartagena

NOVEMBER

Independence Day and Miss Colombia Beauty Pageant (Fiestas de Independencia) – This is a 4 day annual festival held in the beginning of November flooding the streets, beaches, rooftops, and sea. From floats, street parades, boat parades, costumes, indoor and outdoor parties, this is Cartagena’s likeness to Carnival.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

HAY Festival – Annual celebration of literature, philosophy, film, and music with special guests often attending for discussions, book signings, and talks. Concerts are held in the piazzas.

See more of Sermoneta

Welcome to Sermoneta.

A perfect medieval Italian village, Sermoneta is about an hour drive south of Rome, with a wealth of touring possibilities within and surrounding the city.

Sermoneta is a rare, largely unchanged hilltop village, with the fortress of the Castello Caetani (Caetani Castle) looming over its preserved beauty. Set in the Lepino Mountain Range, stunning views overlook the vast countryside and out to the sea.

While the village itself is worth the visit, with cobblestone alleys, historical intrigue, and not to mention the serene Italian way of living, there are also plenty of events and sights to see that showcase Sermoneta’s vibrance. Here are some of the upcoming events you should plan for in 2016:

Starting with the enchanting Gardens of Ninfa. The magical gardens are listed #1 things to do in the Latina region on Tripadvisor – certainly not to miss if you can catch a visiting date. These romantic gardens have been preserved around restored ruins, with a uniquely perfect climate allowing the gardens to flourish. To preserve the delicate nature of the gardens, there has historically been very limited openings to visitors. This year, more open days are available than in the past, giving visitors a chance to see one of the most beautiful gardens of Italy. Plan your trip – see all 2016 Gardens of Ninfa dates.

Love music? Several summer festivals showcase Sermoneta’s vibrance, like Maggio Sermonetano – a series of concerts and events in the streets of Sermoneta, or Festival di Chitarra « Caroso » – an international guitar festival in August.

Of course, there’s always room to celebrate wine and food! See all these exciting events below –

	MAGGIO SERMONETANO (MAY SERMONETA) Music and art fill the streets and squares of Sermoneta during Maggio Sermonetano (May Sermoneta). Enjoy free events of several musical genres, from popular music, jazz, classical to workshops, poetry, cinema, and more. SEE MORE: MAGGIO SERMONETANO
	FESTIVAL DI PONTINO DI MUSICA In June and July, the International Campus Foundation of Music organizes concerts of classical music, chamber music, and contemporary in the beautiful setting of Castello Caetani. SEE MORE: PONTINO MUSIC FESTIVAL
	FESTIVAL DI CHITARRA « CAROSO » In August, authors and performers from around the world celebrate the world of Guitar, with plenty of performances around Sermoneta. SEE MORE: GUITAR FESTIVAL
	SKYWINE FESTIVAL A local cultural event at the end of August, the SkyWine Festival showcases the regional food and wine, as well as art, for a total cultural immersion. SEE MORE: SKYWINE FESTIVAL
	SECOLARE FIERA DI SAN MICHELE At the end of September, experience a traditional fair exhibiting local specialties, from organic products, food stands, wine, as well as musical entertainment, shows, seminars and farm education. SEE MORE: SAN MICHELE FAIR
	LIFE DRAWING AND FRESCO PAINTING CLASS NEW! A unique opportunity to learn history, ancient techniques of life drawing or fresco painting in the Gardens of Ninfa, under the guidance of professors from the Academy of Fine Arts of Rome. SEE MORE: ART IN SERMONETA