Our Foundation
Hi, I am María Isabel Alvarez Ortega! Yes, this is my name. People call me Mayu. I grew up in ” Brusseles” next to “Antwerp”, but I am not talking about Belgium. In Cartagena you can travel around the world because -¡Many neighborhoods are named after countries! My family has lived for almost 50 years in this neighborhood and even though I don’t live there anymore, I love to visit “Bruselas”. I spent my childhood listening “Jibaro”, “Salsa” and “Champeta Africana”, a big reason why I love dancing.
I am a lifelong resident of Cartagena, that’s why I am sure there is no a better way to experience our culture than spending time with local people. I am a tremendous fan of Cartagena’s culture and the reason are obvious. My people are really passionate for life, they are friendly, talkative, smiling, funny and happy.
Our passion for our music, food, life, culture, history, stories, customs make me feel inspired to invite everyone to be part of this even if only for holidays. Discover Cartagena by Locals (DCBL) is the way to show to the world that this is an amazing place to enjoy and even to live.
We are lucky to be part of this community and that’s why ¡ We want to share our good fortune!
MARÍA
DCBL Founder
Our Discover Cartagena’s Family
MARÍA
Founder & Local Travel Guide
Hola, soy María. I consider myself an outgoing and enthusiastic person with a great sense of humor. I am a big fan of Cartagena because this city gives me everyday what makes me happy. Family, friends, coconut rice and salsa music!
Anderson
Local Dancer
Hola, soy Anderson and I love dancing. Cartagena allows its visitors to have the best holidays . I am confident this city is the best place to welcome everyone around the world. My culture is so authentic and unique that I am proud of being from here.
Willy
Local Travel Guide
Hola, soy Willy. I love being a tour guide because I show the best of this city. I am a local expert about history and Cartagena’s culture. I speak English, Spanish and Portuguese. I am proud of being from Cartagena since this is the best destination in Colombia.
Rocío
Local Cook & Mom
Hola soy Rocío and I am a cook and local mom. I learned to cook from my mom. She taught me all her cooking tips. All my recipes are made with love. Cartagena’s cuisine is extraordinary and diverse I really enjoy making people happy with my cooking.
Marlon
Local Travel Guide
Hola soy Marlon. I am from Barú, the most beautiful island Cartagena has. I grew up swimming in playa blanca. I love my culture because it represents our joy. I consider Cartagena a magical city with all you need to experience an unique culture.
Jhon
Local dancer
Hola soy Jhon, but people call me Chino Rap. I have been dancing since I was a kid. I learned by myself I just love to move my body with the beat of salsa and champeta music. I love Cartagena’s culture since its full of rhythms and traditions that I am glad to enjoy.
