How to Meet Cartagena Expats For Dating

by Expats Singles

Cartagena, Colombia, is one of the most vibrant and colorful cities in South America. Beyond the stunning beaches, colonial streets, and buzzing nightlife, it’s also a hub for expats—from digital nomads to retirees and long-term travelers. If you’re looking to meet expats for dating in Cartagena, the good news is: the city offers plenty of opportunities both online and offline. The trick is knowing how to do it without coming across as awkward or pushy.

🌐 Where to Start Online

Before hitting the cobblestone streets, try online platforms where expats in Cartagena already hang out:

Facebook Groups like Expats in Cartagena or Digital Nomads Colombia often have meetups and social events.
Internations Cartagena offers a structured way to meet professionals living abroad.
Dating platforms such as Meetup or international apps like Tinder and Loveawake can also connect you with expats open to dating.

🍸 Where to Meet Cartagena Expats Offline

If you prefer meeting people face-to-face, Cartagena has plenty of hotspots where expats naturally gather:

Café del Mar – An iconic seaside bar on the city walls where expats and travelers mingle over cocktails and sunsets.
📍 Address: Baluarte de Santo Domingo, Centro, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
👉 Google Maps Directions
Media Luna Hostel – Famous for its Wednesday night rooftop parties, this backpacker hub draws a big international crowd.
📍 Address: Calle Media Luna #10-46, Getsemaní, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
👉 Google Maps Directions
Café Época Espresso Bar – A trendy café in the historic center where digital nomads and expats often work or relax.
📍 Address: Carrera 5 #34-52, Centro, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
👉 Google Maps Directions
Social Club Cartagena – A coworking and networking space popular with expats who stay longer term.
📍 Address: Cl. 32 #9-68, Centro Histórico, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
👉 Google Maps Directions

🤝 Cartagena Expats Communities Rules

When joining Cartagena expat circles—whether online or offline—it’s good to respect the unwritten rules that keep these communities friendly:

Don’t spam or promote yourself too much – People come for connection, not constant sales pitches.
Be respectful of cultural differences – Cartagena expats come from all over the world, so open-mindedness goes a long way.
Avoid politics and heated debates – Keep things light unless you already know the person well.
Participate, don’t just lurk – Show up at meetups, join conversations, and contribute to the community.
Respect personal boundaries – Not everyone is in Cartagena for dating, so read the room before making a move.

Following these rules helps you build trust and makes you stand out from casual tourists.

🤝 Links To More Expats Communities

🎉 Events & Festivals

Cartagena has countless cultural events where you can bump into expats:

Hay Festival – An international literature and arts festival held every January in Cartagena’s historic center.
Cartagena International Music Festival – A week-long event of world-class classical concerts that takes place in early January.
Local Meetup Nights – Many bars in Getsemaní and the Old Town host informal expat gatherings, usually on weeknights (Wednesdays & Thursdays) when the local nightlife is at its peak.

✅ Final Tips

Dress smart casual: Cartagena is hot, but expats still appreciate effort in appearance.
Be curious: Ask about their story and why they chose Cartagena.
Don’t force dating: Many friendships in expat circles naturally evolve into something more.

Meeting expats in Cartagena for dating is less about strategy and more about being present, social, and respectful. Whether online or offline, the opportunities are everywhere—you just have to step into the rhythm of this lively city.