TESOL Course in Cartagena,
Colombia
Why
TEFL Course in Colombia?
South America is a continent that holds mystery and mystique for the
rest of the world. A Continent that has witnessed an ancient
civilization and culture, seen strife and stride of the modern world and
has the best of what nature has to offer. And in this great continent
lies Colombia, a country where the Amazon, Andes and the Caribbean meet.
What is in it for you?
This is how “The Lone ly Planet” describes the place: “A fairy-tale city
of romance, legends and sheer beauty, Cartagena de Indias is an
addictive place that can be hard to escape. This is the place to drop
all sightseeing routines. Instead, just stroll through Cartagena's maze
of cobbled alleys, where enormous balconies are shrouded in bougainvilla
and massive churches cast their shadows across leafy plazas. Take time
out to relax at one of Cartagena's many open-air cafés, prime viewing
spots to watch the parade of horse-drawn carriages, fashionable locals
and mystified tourists. When the bustling city gets too much, you can
always escape to the nearby Islas de Rosario.”One can enjoy the colonial
period, the modern city and the fashionable seaside resort of Colombia's
second port.
What is the attraction?
Cobbled streets, balconies with blooming bougainvillea, and pastel
plazas make Cartagena one of Latin America's most photogenic cities. It
was founded in 1533 and is steeped in history. This Spanish colony was
the former hub of the Spanish empire — a major shipping port for New
World riches.Cartagena is surrounded by massive stone walls, within
which sit hundreds of gorgeous colonial homes, churches, plazas and
parks.
Cartagena is historic, beautiful, and safe. It is the Party Capital of
Colombia . It is the favorite place for Colombia's young jettsetters who
are looking to party hard and relax on the beach. Some of the hottest
clubs from Bogota, Medellin, and Cali (Colombia's 3 biggest cities)
close and open venues in Cartagena during high season. The city erupts
with non-stop nightlife, beach parties, and most importantly beautiful,
friendly people.
On the tourist map
Cartagena show cases a colonial past which is reflected in its
architecture and culture.
Casa de Marqués Valdehoyos, on Calle Factoría, is a good place to begin
your explorations of the old city. This house exemplifies old Cartagena,
and the tourist office inside offers maps and information.
Museo de Oro y Arqueloguía on the Plaza Bolivar, has a good collection
of gold and pottery of the Sinú culture. Also on the plaza, the Palacio
de la Inquisicíon is a fine example of colonial architecture.
Cartagena's Cathedral, with its massive exterior, simple interior and
fortress appearance was begun in 1575, partially demolished by Sir
Francis Drake's cannons, and completed in 1602. Iglesia de Santo Domingo
on Calle Santo Domingo, which is little changed from colonial days, is
the oldest church in the city, and like the cathedral, was built to
resist invaders.
Las Bóvedas were dungeons used for military purposes but now houses
boutiques and tourist shops.
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is the largest of a series of
fortresses built to protect the city from pirates. A must-see is the
tunnel system meant to facilitate supply and evacuation of the fortress.
Overlooking the fortress, the Convento de la Popa boasts flowered patios
and a great view of the city, particularly at sunset. The convent once
served as an additional fortress and now houses a museum and the chapel
of the Virgen de la Candelaria, Cartagena's patron saint.
Cartagena's newer areas, Bocagrande and El Laguito, on the peninsula
facing the Caribbean, have become the fashionable location of upscale
hotels, restaurants and shops.
Evening and Nightlife
Cartagena has incredible nightlife and party scenes. Clubs from the
biggest cities in Colombia (Bogota, Medellin, Cali) set up shop in
Cartagena during High-Season.
Most of Colombian Jet-setters from all over the world and Colombia flock
to Cartagena for its late night parties.
Weekend excursions
Parque Nacional Tayrona is a national park. The park is a beautiful mix
of white sand beaches, interesting coral reefs and jungle slopes. The
high steeps belong to the world’s highest coastal range. However
swimming is not recommended here – the current is too strong and
therefore dangerous, but many people snorkel with no problem. The
beaches are shaded with coconut trees.
Another popular day trip from Cartagena on the way back from The Tayrona
National Park is Santa Marta. This port city is the oldest in Colombia
and sits at the base of the Sierra Nevada, the highest coastal mountain
in the world. The resort town of El Rodadero has a beautiful beach as
well as the cooler regions of the mountains. The best archaeological
site of the area are the La Ciudad Perdida ruins.
If you are interested in history and architecture head for Mompox. This
town is set on the Magdalena River and was once an important trading
location between the inland area of the country and the Caribbean. The
commercial life is no longer, but the town retains its amazing colonial
architecture.
About our TEFL Location
The TEFL school in Cartagena is located in the “Old City” area, not far
from the the most noticeable landmark “Torre del Reloj” - Clock Tower.
The address is:TESOL Internacional c/o Nueva Lengua Calle del Pozo 25 –
95 Getsemani neighborhood.
Connectivity
An 80-min. flight from Bogotá, the capital of Colombia will help you
reach Rafael Nuñez Airportin Cartagena. Cartagena is well connected by
boat to the neighboring South American countries. Within the city there
is a fairly good network of buses however the beauty of the city is
enjoyed better on foot.
Weather
Cartagena's climate is typically Caribbean; its average annual
temperature of 28°C changes very little. Although the days are hot, a
fresh breeze blows in the evening, making this a pleasant time to stroll
around the city. Theoretically, the driest period is from December to
April, while October and November are the wettest months.
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