I have been trying to get here for about 5 years. Things that have held me up are work/PTO, children’s extracurricular, hurricanes, other events, lack of resources due to my shopping addiction. Yes, it’s a thing. However, I was adulting when I skipped FAMU’s Homecoming to pay for this trip. I will say 1. I’ll never miss another homecoming. 2. The culture, laughs, and experiences I had here with some amazing people was worth the wait! This trip was leisure focused and not full of adrenaline rush.
 

PreTravel Information

As far as entry into Colombia, as of January 2023, no vaccines are needed except for certain places where you are required to have yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days prior to the trip. Fortunately, not for Cartagena! A completed an entry form as early as 3 days prior to arrival to the airport for the first leg of your flight if you have a connecting flight like we did. The form link is located here:...

Do you overpack for trips? Just throw it all in the bag? Complete outfits for each day with the shoes that match? Do you worry if you have packed enough or have forgotten anything? What about the weight of your bag? Do you pay for overages? Scroll down to see the steps I take to be #TeamCarryon and can fit 5 days and 4 nights with accessories and shoes into my tiny luggage. You’ll see what is suggested and what I do to tweak it!

Research and Plan

Before you pack, find out the weather forecast during your visit and google the scenery of the spots/excursions you would like to visit. This will help you determine the type of clothes, fabric, and colors you will pack.

If it’s cold then you need a sweater/jacket. If it’s hot then light cotton.  If your pictures will be in spots that are dark or dull then you need vibrant colors to make your pictures pop. If you will be in a vibrant area, then you need some neutrals for your to stand out in your pictures.

Are...