Hundred of years ago, Bocagrande was just a narrow strip of land and one of the few ways to access the old walled city (and it was where Sir Francis Drake’s army approached from when they attacked the city in the 16th century). When the city walls were built in the 1700s, the first section was specifically built to block any approach from Bocagrande. Ironically, it is now an area that serves as a starting point for the armies of tourists that approach the old walled city thanks to the massive development that has taken place in the area. When you look towards Bocagrande from the old city walls today, you no longer see a stretch of empty space, instead, you see a new and modern city from which the you can enjoy some of the most dynamic and stunning sunsets on a daily basis.
While the old walled city takes you back into Cartagena’s past, Bocagrande leads you into its future. The shiny skyscrapers and modern buildings are a sharp contrast to the brightly painted buildings of the old walled city. It is a modern neighborhood full of shopping malls, high-end restaurants, and movie theaters. Depending on how long you have been traveling and where you have been, this may either feel like a blessing or a curse.
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Bocagrande is also the location of most of the big hotels and resorts. With the beachside hotels and perky, colorful umbrellas just waiting to throw some shade, it is more reminiscent of Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro or the hotel zone in Cancun than it is to the old colonial walled city of Cartagena from the colonial period. Bocagrande may not have the same colonial charm as the old wall city but this is a great area to stay in if you are looking for more of the “traditional” beach holiday.
If you are traveling with kids, the Hyatt Residence is a safe choice with 2 swimming pools located on the elevated deck. Depending on your kids, this may be the perfect place to replenish their spirits after a long day of walking through the old town. The Hyatt also has 3 outdoor jacuzzis, a sauna and a steam room for ultimate relaxation. We have 6 luxurious apartments available for rent located at the Hyatt. Click here to browse through our collection of Dream Homes.
Whether you’ve been tasked with co-ordinating a memorable getaway for a wedding party or you simply want to put together a vacation your large group will never forget, have a Cartagena Dream Concierge curate your most memorable Cartagena Dream Experience.
