Living Bazurto, another face of Cartagena

Cartagena has a fascinating Historical Center and old walls from Colonial times It also has paradisaical islands and the bohemian neighborhood called Getsemaní. It is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and tradition. There is also a colorful and unique market place, which attracts visitors thanks to its daily dynamics. These words come from Samuel Vergara, a tourist guide from Alternative Travel Cartagena, an agency that offers a refreshing and different way to live the city.

During the time I have lived in Cartagena, I have known places that made me fall in love. But I also wanted to explore for different plans and sides of the city, so I went looking for an experience away from the Colonial architecture and its luxuries. The answer was Bazurto, the city’s striking supply center. Even though it is not considered a tourist destination, it has rapidly become into a place of interest for international visitors. I gathered with the guide and a bunch of foreigners at the Parque Fernández de Madrid. We all wanted to see a different Cartagena. First we went to the monument of La India Catalina, getting through the Calle de la Tablada, where we took a buseta (public bus). It was a 20 minutes ride taking the Avenida del Lago. You can also get to Bazurto from the Avenida Pedro de Heredia, since the market place is located between two of the main and busiest roads in the city.

Within the market, our first stop was at the food court. A Delicious smell of fried fish overwhelmed us all. There were large pots set on charcoal fire, where a lot of tasty goodies were cooked: All kinds of fish, rice, crabs, soups, and succulent stews, made me feel as though I was in paradise. Just a few steps ahead we could find a place where they served us fresh and delicious typical dishes from Cartagena. All of the ingredients from these tasty preparations are found in Bazurto itself. On this market you can always buy fresh fish and different spices, but there is a lot more. We got to see the vegetables section, where its wide variety of colors was a visual delight. We also visited a couple of curious shops specialized in spicy products and medicinal herbs

Later, we went through the “Rampla”, an unloading place that connects with the fruits section. The sweet smell on the air was the sign that proved we were on the perfect place. From bananas and pineapples, to guanabanas and tangerines, all of these fruits and lots more, are easily found at this fascinating supplying center. Do not forget to refresh yourself with a delicious corozo juice. This market’s name was originated after a word game: People used to yell “Va – Surto”, and with time its writing got deformed and turned into Bazurto.

This tour has all the elements that make Cartagena a great place to visit: A kind attention, delicious flavors, tasty products, colorful sights and fun people. At this traditional Cartagena’s marketplace you can find almost everything, from groceries and home supplies, to footwear and clothing. It is a really fun experience to visit this market that never sleeps. It helps you get connected with the city’s daily life and gives you a good idea of the local culture and the way they live.

Thanks to Alternative Travel Cartagena, I got to know a rarely explored face of the city. A central supply center filled with Cartagena’s magic. There is no other market place like this one in the world.