Been to Cartegena several times since 2017, there’s an overage of people left and right trying to sell you things, after 2019 I saw more and more kids being used (ages 4 and up) selling you bracelets, maps, hats, anything. And watch your pockets a lot of that is a distraction. Minus all the touristy stuff, Cartegena, the people, the culture, especially within the main city walls is a beautiful place.
We bonded with our cabby pretty good and have been connected with him since 2017, showed us around, got us connected with our air bnb just and both of them hooked us up with food, drinks, women. The first time we met it was right out of a movie, brought in 10-15 for us to choose from and they all hopped in a van and were dropped off at our place.
Aside from that, if things are how they were (I haven’t been back since late 2021) that main clock tower you see in mosts photos, we call that the meat market lol, at night that’s where most of the rooftop clubs are in that square and the girlies are out there all night dressed to their best ready to choose or be chosen. Had some great times. The beach area is very active during the day too, easy to arrange meets in the evenings you’re just dealing with outsiders at that point that could be employed by some shady people so as in any dealings like this, be careful.