The first reason is the low cost living when you retire in Colombia.

With an average currency exchange rate of 2,900 Pesos to US $ 1, your retirement fund can yields a lot. This is also reflected in the fact that real estate in Cartagena is a bargain. It is very likely that you will find everything you need, since almost everything is manufactured or grows locally. Some imported products cost half the price of those sold in the United States or Canada. To put this picture in perspective, when was the last time you bought a bag full of groceries for one or two weeks for less than a hundred dollars? This is one of the economic benefits of living in Cartagena.

Accommodations are far more affordable than you would expect to pay at a seaside resort. A vacation three-bedroom condo vacation rental, with spectacular views in the area of El Laguito, near the Centro Comercial Bocagrande will cost $185 per night. Fully air-conditioned and cable TV included. The Laguito neighborhood is the most bustling and popular beach area of Cartagena, Colombia. If you prefer a nice hotel, go for a brand new two-bedroom apartment with 5 stars resort amenities with the greatest ocean view. This type of full service rentals is an option for many long-term residents. The cost of a nice Cartagena property for sale varies. Another option in the Cartagena area, the best buy is a fully furnished and equipped unit, like this, 84 sq meters 2-bedroom condo for just $170,000, with great vies of the ocean and Tierra Bomba Island. A family friendly property option is an exclusive family friendlycomplex, fully furnished apartment, facing 3 pools and the beach for $515,600. The cost of a nice Cartagena property for sale varies. There are many real estate options in Cartagena that fit any budget, suitable for the real estate investor, a 2nd home or a full time move to a great beach destination.

The second reason is Cartagena's unique cultural fusion.

It represents a unique blend of ancient Spanish America and the richness of the Caribbean. The offer of traditional Colombian cuisine is nostalgic of Spain, while the ladies with giant trays of fresh fruit, balanced on their heads are reminiscent of the Caribbean coasts. The courtyards and narrow streets are colonial Spain, while the bright colors of the houses communicate a Caribbean flair and influence.

The third reason is health care.

Maybe this is the most important factor for a retiree. While we do not want to worry about medical problems, but as we get older, it's inevitable. Cartagena has world-class health facilities, high-quality hospitals, clinics and doctors in all fields, from brain surgery to psychotherapy and everything in between. Many doctors are trained in North America and Europe. Orthodontics is less expensive than in the United States, as is the cost of surgery, and also health insurance is much less expensive by comparison. Medical tourism in Colombia facilitates considerable savings for people in search of specialized medicine and elective surgeries , compared to the cost in the United States or Canada.

The fourth reason is a sense of personal safety.

The city is surrounded by water on three sides so there is literally only one way in or out if someone commits a crime. The police and military heavily patrol the access roads into and out of the city. As a matter of fact, the majority of the northern coast of Colombia from Cartagena to Santa Marta benefits from the security patrol. The Colombian Navy's headquarter is here, on a beautiful historic naval base with a large contingent of Marines. The presence of the police and military makes residents and visitors feel quite safe. Cartagena's vacationers enjoy the tranquility Cartagena offers.

The fifth reason is abundance of things to do, places to go, and the people to meet.

There are so many things to do in Cartagena. For those who enjoy walking, the city has built a walking path that goes part way around the harbor. Starting at the Navy Base to the end of Castillogrande, it takes a little over an hour to make a round trip on the path, while enjoying the scenery of Cartagena. Scuba diving is also a favorite hobby of many residents. You can jump on a high-speed boat for under $30 and within 30 minutes; arrive at one of the most gorgeous beaches on earth. The reefs are stunning and perfect for both scuba diving and snorkeling. Visitng the islands with some friends to spend a weekend like this sounds is a great option. Additionally, there are many restaurants here catering to every taste and budget. Almost anything springs from your imagination, from a street vendor's Colombian arepas to fine Italian dining at the Enoteca on Plaza Santa Teresa, Cartagena has it all. You can savor Cuban ropa vieja or a Middle Eastern kibbe. After dinner, you can walk around the old city (Centro) and you are always guaranteed to find new shop or café or see something new that wasn't there before. Cartagena is a hub for making new friends. The community is very friendly, and offers a great opportunities to learn Spanish as well.

Cartagena is an awesome place to be. We have clients who report about their complete physical and emotional makeover as a result of their relaxing lifestyle in Cartagena. They are loving the energy of the city and the lifestyle opportunities it offers. So next time you are heading south, add Cartagena to your itinerary. Whether you decide to settle here or not, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

Want to know more about living in Cartagena and real estate? – please contact us.