Cartagena de Indias, often described as one of South America’s true jewels, certainly is a fascinating city. I have actually never seen so many colourful, colonial houses next to each other. And since Cartagena is the premier weekend destination for rich Colombians and the place of choice for festivals and exhibitions, the city is always packed with people looking for a good time.

And since the easiest way getting from Colombia’s major cities like Bogotá or Medellin is the air, Cartagena has a sizable airport which is even offering some international direct flights. Rafael Núñez International Airport (IATA: CTG) as it is officially called is located only a short taxi drive north of Cartagena’s walled city. It’s not the most exciting airport, but there are (as always) still a few things you can do if you get bored:

• Enjoy a last Caribbean heat flash in the courtyard before the arrival hall
• Walk to Kekoriko (on the corner where the taxis get off the main road) and try this ubiquitous fast food chain (I wasn’t that impressed though).

And after security:

• Buy a last-minute-packet of Juan Valdez coffee
• Renew your flip flops at the small shop (from 35,000 pesos)
• Buy refreshments from the small yet surprisingly fully stocked stall in the waiting lounge
• Check your emails through the free Wifi (connect to “Sacsa”)

Airport Name	Rafael Núñez International Airport Cartagena de Indias
Website	http://www.sacsa.com.co/
IATA Code	CTG
Design
Shopping
Toilets
Overall
	no duty free Shop
	no duty free Shop