Santa Marta is our preferred beach destination in Colombia… at least for personal use. It’s an intrinsically beautiful Caribbean getaway that conveys a friendly, local feel. It’s a favorite for Colombians, especially Colombian families.
The cost of living in Santa Marta is very low, probably the lowest you’ll find anywhere on the Caribbean.
And it’s somewhat off the beaten trail. When compared to Cartagena, just over
100 miles down the coast, Santa Marta only has a fraction of the foreign tourist traffic, expats, or international recognition.
The weather here is warm… maybe too warm for some. Highs run about 92°F, all year (33°C).
When we refer to “Santa Marta,” we’re actually referring to Santa Marta’s metro area, which runs from the historic center to Taganga in the north, then to Bello Horizonte and the airport heading south. As you explore this 12-mile stretch of coastline, you’ll find everything from pristine coves bordered by small towns… to Colombia’s oldest historic center… to new, modern residential projects on quiet, relatively isolated beaches.
The airport is just south of town, and offers flights to Medellín, Bogotá, and Cali, with a single international flight to Panama City… a city that serves as a pretty good international hub.
By day, Santa Marta offers swimming and sunning… clear, warm waters… great diving… and a low-key, palm-lined boardwalk. Thanks to this small section of north-south coastline, sunsets are spectacular here, and everyone turns out to the beach to watch the sun go down.
But at night, it’s a different story. The waterfront often turns into an impromptu beach party… especially on weekends. Families turn out by the hundreds to enjoy the local music, and to dance to the rhythms of the traveling Vallenato bands. Meanwhile, vendors supply everyone with pizza, shish-kabob, and snow cones. It’s fun to watch, and to be a part of.
Property prices are inexpensive, especially by Caribbean standards. One unit in El Rodadero, less than two blocks from the beach, has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a balcony, and an ocean view. Total living space is 90 square meters or 968 square feet.
Although the apartment is 20 years old, it has a bright and airy feel.
The asking price is $98,000 at today’s exchange rate (official price is 380 million pesos).
To smooth travels and successful property buys,
Sophia Titley
Editor, Overseas Property Alert
