Meeting Colombian women in Cartagena, especially to invite them on a boat trip, requires a respectful and thoughtful approach. Cartagena is a vibrant city with a rich culture, and the women here appreciate sincerity and good manners. Whether you’re using dating apps or meeting people in person, it’s important to make genuine connections rather than focusing purely on getting someone to join you for a specific activity.
Here’s how you can meet Colombian women and possibly invite them on a boat trip when you’re in Cartagena:
1. Use Dating Apps to Connect Before You Arrive
Dating apps are a great way to connect with people before or during your stay. In Cartagena, apps like Tinder and Bumble are popular and widely used by both locals and travelers. These platforms allow you to meet people and start conversations that could lead to fun activities, like a boat trip.
- Tinder: This app is widely used by locals and tourists alike. Be sure to set up your profile with a clear picture and a description that shows you’re interested in meeting new people and exploring the city.
- Bumble: On Bumble, women make the first move. This gives them more control over who they want to connect with. It’s also a great way to meet locals who are open to adventures, as many use it to expand their social circles.
Other dating apps that are less mainstream but worth trying include ColombianCupid, which is designed specifically for people interested in meeting Colombians, and Hinge, which is another app focused on building genuine connections.
2. Be Upfront About Your Plans, But Not Pushy
When you match with someone on an app, introduce yourself and start a conversation naturally. Instead of leading with the boat trip, talk about your plans in Cartagena and express that you’re excited to meet new people. Once you’ve built some rapport, you can mention that you’re thinking of renting a boat or going on a boat trip and casually invite them along.
- Example: “I’m planning to explore some islands while I’m here, like Isla Barú or the Rosario Islands. I thought a boat trip could be a fun way to see the coastline. Have you ever been? I’d love to have some company!”
The key here is to make the invitation open and friendly, without making it feel like a high-pressure situation.
3. Explore Nightlife and Social Venues in Cartagena
Cartagena has a lively social scene, especially in the Getsemani neighborhood and around the Walled City. These areas are filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants where locals and travelers alike gather. Many women in Cartagena enjoy dancing, so venues with salsa, champeta, or reggaeton music are great places to meet people in a fun, energetic environment.
Some popular spots include:
- Café Havana: Famous for its live Cuban salsa music.
- Bazurto Social Club: A great spot for authentic Colombian vibes and champeta music.
- Alquímico: A trendy bar in the Walled City that has fantastic cocktails and a cool rooftop.
Approach women respectfully, with a genuine interest in learning about them and enjoying the local culture. If you vibe well, you can mention your plans for a boat trip later in the conversation.
4. Take Part in Group Tours and Social Events
Cartagena offers many group activities, such as walking tours, island-hopping tours, and day trips to places like Playa Blanca or Rosario Islands. Joining these types of tours can help you meet locals and fellow travelers in a more organic setting.
Some online platforms, like Meetup or Couchsurfing, also offer events where locals and tourists gather for group activities. This is a relaxed way to meet people without the pressure of a dating app.
5. Respect Local Culture and Etiquette
Colombian women are known for being warm and welcoming, but they also value respect and good manners. It’s important to approach them with genuine curiosity and not treat interactions as transactional. A boat trip sounds exciting, but it should come from a place of shared interest rather than an expectation.
Keep these cultural tips in mind:
- Be Polite and Friendly: Colombians generally appreciate people who are respectful and have a good sense of humor. Don’t rush things; let conversations flow naturally.
- Learn Some Spanish: Even if you’re not fluent, knowing a few key phrases in Spanish can make a big difference. Many women in Cartagena speak some English, but speaking in their language shows respect for their culture.
- Dress Appropriately: Colombians take pride in their appearance. Dressing well, even casually, makes a good impression.
Final Thoughts
Cartagena is a beautiful city with amazing people. Meeting women in Cartagena for a boat trip, or even just for a fun conversation, can be a rewarding experience if you approach it with respect and an open mind. Whether through dating apps or exploring the vibrant nightlife, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with locals. Just remember to be respectful and genuine in all your interactions, and you’ll increase your chances of making a meaningful connection.
Happy travels, and may your boat trip be one to remember!
