Cartagena de Indias is one of the most beautiful cities in the Colombian Caribbean. It is a romantic destination full of magic, legends and colonial architecture. But, if you still don’t know what to do in Cartagena, you’ve come to the right blog.
In this travel guide you will discover the best things to do in Cartagena, as well as the places to visit and of course, the islands you must see.
Let's start with the best plans to discover cartagena
1. Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands are located within the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park. This archipelago is composed of more than 20 islands, including Isla Grande.
Isla Grande is the largest of the archipelago and is located relatively close to Cartagena de Indias. On this island, you will enjoy white sand beaches, an extensive barrier reef perfect for snorkeling and a lagoon and mangrove complex that can be explored.
These islands in the Colombian Caribbean offer some of the best beaches in the country, and even the possibility of learning about bioluminescent plankton.
Tip: While it is possible to visit the Rosario Islands in a single day trip, Backpackers offers an excursion called 5 VIP islands in this tour you will see 5 islands as they are: Isla Grande, Isla Cholon, Isla Tierra Bomba, Isla Baru. In addition you will make an excursion with natives of the fort of San Fernando, who will tell you a little about the events in the colonial era.
In the Backpackers excursion they provide you with the equipment to enjoy the reefs and the beauty that you can’t see with the naked eye.
A comfortable, safe and convenient option to visit the Rosario Islands in a single day is to join an organized tour or a tour that includes transportation by sport boat with music. We recommend booking in advance to guarantee your place. Below are the recommended tours:
2. Totumo Volcano
The Totumo volcano is a mud-filled volcanic cone located in the rural area of the municipality of Santa Catalina (Bolivar), in the Caribbean Region of Colombia, next to the Ciénaga del Totumo and near the border with the department of Atlántico. The townships of Loma de Arena, Galerazamba and Pueblo Nuevo are the closest to it. The formation has a low elevation (approximately twenty meters) to reach the crater is necessary to climb a rustic wooden staircase.
Outstanding Activity
Bathing in the Totumo volcano:
Ecotourism is practiced in the site, it is accessed through the national route 90A highway Paralela al Mar (or Via al Mar) that connects Cartagena de Indias with Barranquilla. It receives more than 1,533 hikers per month who, in addition to appreciating the relief of the mud volcano and the Ciénaga del Totumo, take baths in both natural formations.
The best option to visit the totumo volcano in an organized tour offered by Backpackers as a tour operator in the city of Cartagena, the tour is done by land and we start at our meeting point which is in the monument of the pegasus. We recommend you to book in advance to guarantee your place. Recommended excursions are listed below:
3. NATIONAL AVIARY
The largest aviary in the Americas is located 14.5 km from Cartagena – Baru. A tourist attraction that promotes the care of nature along with the importance of environmental sustainability. The National Aviary of Colombia has 138 species of birds and approximately 1800 specimens, among them: the Harpy Eagle, the Caribbean Toucan, the Pink Flamingos, the Crowned Crane, among others. It also has three eco-systemic environments (tropical rainforest, coast and desert) that support its wide variety of permanent exhibits.
The best option to visit the national aviary in an organized tour offered by Backpackers as a tour operator in the city of Cartagena, the tour is done by land and we leave from our meeting point which is at the monument of the pegasus. We recommend you to book in advance to guarantee your place. The recommended excursions are the following:
4. Sunsets in cartagena
Bordering the Caribbean Sea, the city of Cartagena enjoys some of the most breathtaking sunsets. Each day, as the sun begins to set over the horizon, the sky changes to a myriad of spectacular colors and the entire bay becomes harlequin with its reflection. Watching the sunset on the horizon is a must in Cartagena. The orange sky panoramas are so beautiful that it is not uncommon to see large crowds gathered to begin watching the breathtaking spectacle. Here’s a list to prepare you in advance to get the best unobstructed views of stunning Caribbean sunsets in Cartagena.
Get a different perspective as you sail aboard a private boat to watch the sunset from the water, while you sit back with a drink and take in the spectacular view. Watch as the setting sun casts its extraordinary cuts across Cartagena’s historic district. On board, you will quickly discover why this is the best place to watch the sunset in Cartagena.
Backpackers offers a tour called Tulum Golden Hour which consists of watching the sunset in a sport boat party style and after finishing a big party on the island tierra bomba in a beach club until nightfall and not all is over the party still continues in the historic center in a club norturno guaranteeing a magical day.
I’ll leave you some more information here:
5. Night tour of the city of cartagena
Cartagena has a colonial charm and is completely transformed after sunset, where the fun and excitement continues. Caribbean nights offer the perfect setting to explore the entire walled city under the stars. Just imagine walking through the narrow cobblestone streets, illuminated by lanterns, listening to live music coming from the bars, restaurants and plazas, or having a different night on a yacht, scenarios that become lively meeting points, where locals and tourists mingle, enjoying dance and culture, with a constant breeze. Also, you will observe the ornate balconies in the colorful colonial houses and you will find from small bars to clubs with Latin rhythms where you can dance until dawn. As for gastronomy, the restaurants offer a variety of culinary options, from local dishes to international delicacies and you can enjoy dinner under the stars on rooftops.
We recommend an activity called pub crawl which is a very fun night tour that is very sociable and serves to make friends and get to know the different cultural styles that Cartagena has to offer.
Learn More...
And this is a little of everything we can discover in the city of Cartagena, if you want more information about everything we have to offer in the city and Colombia contact us Backpackers Travels.
On the hunt for an Exotic Shorthair in the Kansas City, Missouri
area? You’ve come to the right place. This extensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find and adopt a healthy and happy feline companion. From learning
about the breed’s characteristics to connecting with
reputable breeders and rescues, we’ll cover all the essentials.
Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or a seasoned cat
lover, you’ll find this article invaluable.
What Exactly is an Exotic Shorthair?
The Exotic Shorthair is often affectionately called “the low-maintenance Persian.”
This moniker is aptly given. They were bred in the 1950s by mating American Shorthairs with Persians, with
the goal of creating a cat that had the gentle, docile
temperament of the Persian but with a short, dense, easy-to-maintain coat.
The result was a delightful and tranquil breed that rapidly gained popularity.
Key characteristics of the Exotic Shorthair include:
A thick, velvety fur that feels like a plush toy.
A large, round head with small, rounded ears.
Large, expressive eyes that are often described as ‘dinner-plate’ sized.
A flat, ‘brachycephalic’ face.
A cobby body with strong, short limbs.
A quiet, melodious meow.
Temperament
The personality of the Exotic is without a doubt its most charming trait.
They are known for being:
Calm and placid.
They love to relax and are less active than many other
breeds.
Affectionate and loyal. They form close connections with their human companions and adore snuggling.
Quiet and low-key. They don’t demand a lot of attention but readily welcome it
when offered.
Tolerant of kids and other animals.
Their calm disposition makes them a great fit for households with children and other
animals.
Fun-loving, but not manic. They like to play but are just
as content to curl up on your lap.
Where to Find an Exotic Shorthair Breeder in the KC Area
When you decide to purchase a purebred cat, the single most important thing is
to find a trustworthy and responsible breeder. A good breeder prioritizes the health and well-being of
their cats, ensures proper socialization, and provides all necessary health guarantees and documentation.
Here’s what to look for when vetting a Kansas City breeder:
Membership in a cat fancy association like The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) or The International Cat Association (TICA).
This shows a commitment to breed standards and ethics.
Willingness to let you visit their cattery. A good breeder
will be happy to show you where their cats live.
The breeding area should be sanitary and tidy.
Genetic testing. They should provide proof that the parent cats have been screened for hereditary diseases like Polycystic
Kidney Disease (PKD).
Written health guarantees and contracts. They should offer a contract that specifies the health of the kitten and their policy on health problems.
Age of the kittens. Kittens should not leave their mother before they are at least 12 weeks old.
This gives them time to develop social skills.
Testimonials. Ask for references from previous buyers.
The breeder screens you. A good breeder will be just as interested
in you if you are a good fit for their kitten as you are
in them.
While we cannot list specific breeders, you can use the CFA or TICA websites to find
breeders near you. You can also attend local cat shows to meet breeders in person.
Exotic Shorthair Adoption Options in the KC Metro
Giving a cat a second chance is a noble and rewarding path.
While finding a purebred Exotic Shorthair in a standard animal shelter
can be challenging, it’s not impossible. Many purebreds end up in shelters or rescues due to unforeseen events like an changes in a family’s life.
Here’s how to increase your chances of finding an Exotic Shorthair for adoption:
Check local Kansas City animal shelters and humane societies.
Keep an eye on the websites of places such as the KC Pet Project, Wayside Waifs, or other local rescue groups.
Contact breed-specific rescue organizations.
There are rescues dedicated to finding homes for Persians
and Exotics.
A quick online search for “Exotic Shorthair rescue” will give you options.
Set up alerts. Many adoption websites allow you to set up email alerts
for specific breeds.
Talk to breeders. Sometimes, breeders will have an adult cat that
they are looking to rehome.
Cost and Financial Considerations
The price of an Exotic Shorthair can fluctuate significantly based on the breeder’s
reputation, the kitten’s bloodline, and whether it’s for show or for
pet.
From a reputable breeder, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,
000 to $3,000 or more for a kitten with pet rights.
Adoption fees from a rescue organization are much more affordable,
typically ranging from around $150 to $400. This fee usually covers spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and a microchip.
Remember, the initial cost is just the beginning.
You’ll also need to budget for:
Food.
Veterinary visits.
Brushes and combs.
Toys and enrichment.
Litter and litter boxes.
A carrier and a cat bed.
Grooming and Care
A key selling point of the Exotic Shorthair is its easy-care coat.
While they don’t have the long hair of a Persian, they do need regular grooming to avoid mats and fur balls.
Grooming: A short, daily brushing session is a good idea to remove loose hair and keep the coat in good condition. A
a special brush works well.
Bathing: They rarely need a bath, but a bath on occasion will help keep them looking their
best.
Facial Care: Due to their brachycephalic structure, they are susceptible to tear stains.
Gently cleaning their face with a a moist cloth designed for this purpose will help keep
the area clean and prevent staining.
Nail Trimming: Trim their nails regularly.
Dental Hygiene: Regular dental care is essential to maintain good
oral health.
Common Health Issues to Be Aware Of
While generally a healthy breed, the Exotic’s flat face makes them at risk for certain health issues.
A good breeder will test for these, but it’s important for you
to be knowledgeable about them.
Breathing issues: This is a group of problems that can make it difficult to breathe.
Symptoms include snorting, snoring, and heavy breathing.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): This is a hereditary disease that
can lead to kidney failure.
Responsible breeders will test their cats for this condition.
Eye Issues: Due to their large eyes and tear ducts, they can be susceptible to issues like epiphora (excessive tearing) and cherry eye.
Dental Disease: Their unique mouth shape can lead to oral health issues.
The First Few Days
Once you’ve found your perfect cat, it’s time to get ready
for them to come home.
Make your home safe for a cat. Put away any small items they could swallow and hide any
cables.
Set up a ‘safe room’. A small, calm space with a litter box, food,
water, and a bed will help them adjust to their new surroundings without feeling
overwhelmed.
Introduce them to other pets slowly. Use a step-by-step introduction method to prevent conflict.
Establish a routine. Cats thrive on regularity.
Consistent feeding, play, and grooming will help them feel secure.
In Conclusion
The search for an Exotic Shorthair in Kansas City is an a thrilling adventure.
By doing your research and being patient, you can find a wonderful cat that will provide you with years of happiness
and love. Regardless of whether you adopt or buy from a breeder, an Exotic Shorthair will be a delightful and loving addition to your
family. With their lovely personality and cute appearance, it’s
no surprise they are so popular. Have fun with the process, and
prepare to welcome your new feline friend!
Also visit my web blog: Exoctic kittens
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